HSE Community Insights - Luke Bonnor
We spoke with Luke Bonnor, General Manager HSEQ Central Services at Boral Australia to gain insights into Luke’s HSE career journey to date and to hear his advice for others looking to join the sector.
How do you identify, and address development needs to accelerate your career?
“The path that worked for me was to deliberately choose who I worked for, I have chosen specific different industries and then chose to work for 2-5 years within each business to broaden my experience and that has helped to accelerate my career”
“I was also open to taking opportunities both internally and externally, however, you need to drive this yourself and actively seek opportunities out as they don’t come too easily. I had a coach which really helped me to move onto the next level and keep me motivated”.
In building your career, how do you build your brand in the market?
“Literally, actions speak louder than words, its not about talking its about doing! I think you need to earn your place and the respect of others, whether you’re a leader or part of a team. Be inclusive. Build trust.
“Externally, it’s about building your network, when it comes to online, LinkedIn is the most powerful tool, however, also seek opportunities to network. Participate in events, such as the one The Safe Step ran recently, where I volunteered to be on the panel as a speaker, talking to our next generation of future HSE leaders about how to progress their career. Here are some of the highlights from the event”.
What 3 things are the most important for you when choosing an organisation to work for?
“Initially for me, it was about broadening my experience in my current role. I wanted some heavy-duty operational experience and Boral was a great fit for that. I also chose Boral as I knew there was room for me to develop and grow. Another important factor for me when choosing to work with an organisation is that the company needs to have a good brand and is positioned well in the marketplace. And, finally it’s around the cultural fit, the people and the values.
Why have you chosen a career in the HSE Space and what would be your advice to others looking to get into the sector?
“I did a science degree, down in Wollongong University, I was in the 4th year and the lecturer asked me “what do you want to do when you finish?” to be honest, I didn’t know. My dad had spent many years with Bluescope Steel and so I grew up watching him throughout his career. Unfortunately, he had a bad accident that involved others (thankfully there were all ok). I watched the journey that Dad went through after that. Back then, safety wasn’t as advanced as it is now, people found themselves falling into safety as opposed to following a career in it.
“I knew then, after Dad’s accident that that was what I wanted to do, and I haven’t look back. There will always be opportunities in safety – organisations need to look after their people. There’s also a great sense of purpose for safety professionals. My advice is don’t stand still, keep looking to learn and grow. What’s important today, will not be in 3 years. Safety is going through huge change, so you need to be adaptable, and never forget that people are the solution not the problem!”
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