Harnessing AI to build thriving organisational cultures: Insight to impact
Consultant.
Researcher.
Thought Partner.
What I do
Consulting
I partner with leaders to navigate complexity, drive cultural alignment, and deliver practical, values-led solutions in real-world settings.
Research
My current focus explores how AI, leadership, and organisational culture intersect – pushing the boundaries of insight to shape the future of work.
Thought leadership
I write, speak, and build models that cut through noise – offering frameworks, field-tested wisdom, and honest perspectives for leaders and teams.
Here’s what I’ve been thinking, writing, working through lately.
Some recent reflections
The Future Through Experience: Lessons from a Career in HR
Data tells us everything… except when it doesn’t. From boardrooms in Oman to mines in Australia, I’ve learned that future success needs both high tech and high touch. Modern HR isn’t about choosing between data and human connection – it’s about mastering both. The sweet spot? That’s where the magic happens.
Building an Airline Mid-Flight: My CleanCo Adventure
Try building a plane while flying it – that’s what creating CleanCo’s HR function felt like. Starting from scratch in a high-risk, heavily unionised environment, we needed everything from basic policies to complex union agreements, all while keeping the lights on. Sometimes the best way forward is to build while flying!
The Evolution of Mine Life: From Company Towns to FIFO
Watch Australian mining evolve: from 8-hour shifts in company towns to 12-hour FIFO rosters in modern camps. We transformed not just how people worked, but how they lived. From local pubs being community hubs to air-conditioned control rooms running digital operations – it’s still about people making a living from the earth, just with better technology.
The Governance Compass™: Turning complexity into clarity
Born in the field, not the classroom – this framework started at Yancoal, helping align a corporate centre with ten mine sites. It set clear rules of engagement, defined decision rights, and built a shared foundation for growth.
Now, I help other organisations build their own compass – to sharpen roles, align behaviours, and scale trust across teams and functions.
About Tom
The human behind the research
I’ve worked with leaders in mines, boardrooms, and beyond – helping them make sense of complexity and lead with character.
Now, I’m combining 40 years of lived experience with fresh eyes on the future.
I keep a guitar nearby – not to play, but to think better.
What others say
“Straight-talking. Values-led. Strategically sharp.”
“A powerful mix of wisdom and practicality.”
Let’s talk
Whether you’re planning a transformation, leading a team, or just trying to make sense of the noise – I can help you find clarity and traction.
Let’s have a conversation that moves things forward.