Celebrating Women in Operations 

Celebrating Women in Operations 

Welcome to the NAWO 100 Women in Operations campaign. This platform celebrates the careers of women in operations across our multi-industry network (our membership is drawn from nine industries that have historically had less than 25% female representation).

Watch this space as we continue to profile brilliant women working in operations across our multi-industry network.

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100 Women in Operations

Showcasing 100 women working in diverse and rewarding careers in operations

Nominate a woman in operations from your team

  • Madeline started her career in manufacturing after joining a supply chain graduate program. In her current role as Demand and Supply Planning Manager, Maddi is now responsible for ensuring Oji’s Fibre packaging products are produced and delivered on time. And… she loves it!

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  • An industrial engineer by trade, Claudia has worked across multiple industries and countries ranging from FMCG and automotives to marketing. Claudia now leads the supply chain for Yates.

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  • Rajita started out as the only woman technician in AWS and is now a Senior Data Centre Engineer. She’s passionate about sharing her experiences and advocating for women in technical spaces.

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  • Starting her career as a receptionist, Hailey stumbled into the world of physical security. Now with 20 years of industry experience, Hailey is a Senior Security Program Manager, responsible for physical security of AWS data centres.

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  • Nat is the epitome of someone who never thought they would end up in operations; her story shows how embracing her curiosity led to her creating a path that allowed her to embrace her passion: supporting the safety, health and wellbeing of people and showing how a safety culture positively impacts the entire business.

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  • Rhi, a 28-year-old Maori wahine from New Zealand, embodies natural leadership and determination. From her start as a temp picker/packer to becoming the Operations Supervisor at ProPharma Hamilton, where she oversees site operations, her journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication and leadership skills. 

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  • From achieving a degree in chemical engineering to becoming a global supply chain leader, Amanda McNaughton shares how her diverse experiences in operations have helped shape her successful career. Read on to hear more of her thoughts on the power of effective delegation, communication and collaboration, plus find out what her advice to her younger self would have been.

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  • As a seasoned Delivery Station Manager at Amazon, Amanpreet Kaur ensures smooth daily operations and a positive working environment. With a strong background in logistics management, she excels in optimising processes and meeting targets. Her commitment to excellence and innovative solutions helps drive the success of Amazon’s dynamic delivery operations.

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  • With over 12 years of expertise in agriculture operations, Raniera now manages sites during harvest and has worked at over 26 sites across ECA. As an Inclusion Ambassador for GrainCorp’s Inclusion and Diversity Action Plan (iDAP), she has been featured on ABC Rural Radio discussing the vital role of diversity in agriculture. Committed to leading and inspiring teams towards success, she is an advocate for a more inclusive and innovative agricultural industry.

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  • Showing that dedication, tenacity and hard work pay off, Ashley has made impressive progress after deciding on a career and industry. Following an apprenticeship in mining to work with heavy machinery, she took the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a seasonal position at CSBP in despatch. This led to a permanent role as a process technician, and then on to her becoming a successful Process Group Leader.

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  • Mariam has a decade of experience in engineering, working with top companies like Hyne Timber & Xlam, Inghams Enterprises, PepsiCo ANZ, Cement Australia and Bradken. During this time, she has excelled in diverse roles ranging from preventative maintenance, asset management strategy and large-scale project management, including production equipment upgrades and CMMS-ERP integration.

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  • Over the past 3.5 years, Hayley has excelled as a Health and Safety Advisor at one of the largest wineries in the Barossa Valley. Following a successful tenure as a Quality Manager, she moved into a broader role as the Quality, Health, Safety and Environment Manager at a wine bottling facility. Her dedication and expertise led her to focus primarily on Health and Safety within Winery Operations, where she continues to make a significant impact today.

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  • Starting with Australia Post as a Christmas Casual in October 2003, Carmel rapidly advanced through various roles, in Mail Centre processing and as a Postal Delivery Officer (PDO). She gained valuable experience working in a Licensed Post Office before returning to Australia Post. Carmel then embraced the opportunity to become a relief Team Leader, taking on new challenges and responsibilities that showcase her dedication and growth within the organisation.

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  • Belinda has nearly 20 years of Process Engineering and Process Safety experience, gained from workig for BP in various roles across engineering, safety, projects and change management. Having joined WesCEF three years ago, she now leads a team of 50 people across three process plant areas at an Ammonium Nitrate production facility, balancing operational, maintenance and customer demands. As well as being a chartered chemical engineer, she’s a passionate diversity & inclusion advocate.

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  • Through her diverse career, beginning with 12 years as an onsite account manager in recruitment, Nicole has developed a deep understanding of client needs. Seeking a change, she earned a Cert III in Process Plant Operations and worked at Mobil for six years, honing her technical and problem-solving skills. Now, as a Maintenance Manager at Viva Energy’s Newport Terminal, Nicole oversees critical maintenance operations, leveraging her extensive experience to optimise facility performance and deliver exceptional results.

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  • Lee’s 32-year journey in the rail industry showcases remarkable resilience and adaptability, allowing her to embrace diverse roles along the way. In her current role, she manages Arc’s Planning Team ensuring efficient delivery of planning and financial services across the Arc Network.The role involves balancing a diverse group of internal and external stakeholders, maximise contractor performance to help Arc meet its business objectives.

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  • In leading Business Development at Mondelez ANZ, Alice oversees critical functions that link manufacturing with commercial functions to ensure seamless product launches, boost productivity, reduce complexity, enhance capacity and meet growth targets. She also manages external manufacturing partnerships vital for expanding our production capabilities.

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  • Driven by an interest in the natural environment, Sri moved from hands-on operational roles in construction – including four years in construction diving and as a shotfirer and engineer in civil construction – to mine rehabilitation and closure. Since 2022, Sri has project-managed rehabilitation activities at Mt Jackson and led the Closure Planning and Execution team in Perth. She holds a Civil Engineering degree and a Master’s in Mining Engineering.

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  • From joining as a Category Manager at TWE in 2021, Sunanda has gained experience across multiple areas. Now as Head of Procurement Excellence, she takes the lead in setting up the technological, process and governance, risk & compliance foundations for the Procurement team, helping them deliver their objectives.

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  • Taylor has progressed to become an executive manager, overseeing multi-million-dollar accounts across a range of industries, after taking a risk on moving into an Operations role, having initially interviewed for a Marketing position! Despite initial discomfort and unfamiliarity, she has carved out a successful journey for herself ever since!

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  • After having started with CBH in 2011, Michaela has progressed to Area Manager, having shown her abilities during the busy 2018 harvest time overseeing quality control, logistics and frontline staff support. Her quick thinking and problem-solving skills continue to help her drive positive change, benefiting both staff and stakeholders.

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  • As Operations Supervisor, Niccole leads a dynamic team of Despatch Operators, overseeing the receipt and supply of granular and liquid fertilizers. Under her leadership, the team has grown to include five women, reflecting her commitment to diversity and excellence. Niccole’s dedication to delivering the best service, advice and quality to customers showcases her exceptional leadership and impact in the industry.

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  • After starting as a Laboratory Supervisor at Castlemaine Perkins in 1992, Celsa progressed to become Site Manager of Malt House Operations, developing a strong focus on Quality, Environmental and Safety Systems. After overseeing the Malt House closure in 2011, she returned to Castlemaine under Lion’s ownership, where she now serves as Brewing Manager.

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  • With 15 years of experience in supply chain, mining and agriculture, Jess is the Service Center Manager at Redbank where she oversees the delivery of the latest pallet repair facility for CHEP, a subsidiary of Brambles Limited. During her eight years at the company she has worked across various platforms, including pallets and returnable plastic crates, in Queensland and New South Wales. She also leads the CHEP Australia Women in Operations program, aimed at attracting, retaining and developing women in traditionally male-dominated roles.

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  • Emma is the Service Center Manager for CHEP in North Melbourne, leading Australia’s largest telecom container site. With an extensive operational career starting as a train driver in the public rail industry, she joined CHEP in 2016 as a pallet repair worker at the Dandenong Service Center. Quickly rising through the ranks, she became a Pallet Repair Champion Supervisor, then Group Production Leader, and in 2021, she was appointed Service Center Manager.

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  • After seven years as a stay-at-home mum, Shiralee rejoined the workforce as a Despatch Operator in the CSBP Chemical business. Through demonstrating her leadership potential by embracing training opportunities, she quickly advanced to Fill-in Group Leader, discovering a deep passion for her work. Now a Process Technician in the Fertilisers business, she is completing her core operator training to manage plant operations.

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  • Amanda has over 5 years of logistics experience in warehousing and transport operations. After starting in professional services, she transitioned to logistics through the Linfox Graduate Program. Now a Senior Program Manager at Amazon Transportation Services, she is passionate about scaling the middle mile transportation network to better serve customers in Australia.

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  • As a Network Operations Analyst in the Rail industry, Taneeka is responsible for tracking and reporting train services on the Arc Infrastructure network and addressing issues with operators. She attributes much of her current success to her prior industry experience in Mining and Oil & Gas, working with diverse workforces across roles from Logistics and Warehousing to Procurement and Project Planning, which enhanced her communication skills and adaptability. Taneeka continues to embrace her versatility and curiosity and strive for growth, encouraging others to pursue opportunities with confidence.

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  • A love of Immunology and a major in Microbiology steered Rachel to a career in food manufacturing. After 10 years in dairy, she moved to Arnotts to focus on quality and food safety of baked goods. Now leading the biscuit and chocolate manufacturing site in Adelaide, Rachel has embraced a vast array of new experiences and learning opportunities.

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  • Having started at Treasury Wines as a casual packaging technician, Emily quickly worked her way into a full-time position and having proved herself, now is a Packaging Team Leader at TWE Barossa. In this role, she oversees the safety and quality of the production process of its high-speed bottling lines that produce up to 24,000 bottles per hour for brands including Penfolds and Pepper Jack, and coordinates specialised tasks such as gift boxing and bottle waxing.

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  • With over 12 years at Monadelphous, Kate has advanced from a graduate project engineer to a Project Manager leading strategy, growth, pre-contracts and acquisitions for its South West Operations. During this time, she has gained significant experience in project engineering and client relations in South West WA. Beyond her role at Monadelphous, Kate founded South West Women in Infrastructure, Mining & Minerals (SWWIMM), a network dedicated to supporting and empowering women in the region’s infrastructure, mining and minerals industries.

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  • As Program Delivery Manager at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP), Mia drives the successful delivery of large-scale capital projects, including a transformative program to enable CCEP’s Victorian facility to produce sports beverages like Powerade. Starting her journey in CCEP’s graduate program, Mia quickly rose through the ranks, leveraging her passion for engineering and project management. Her commitment to operational excellence and innovation has positioned her at the forefront of initiatives shaping the future of the business.

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  • With extensive international experience in the US and Asia in petrochemicals, Jane returned to Melbourne and joined Ridley as a process engineer. She initially focused on site process improvements and optimisation and now leads the Engineering team. She drives world-class Rendering Project execution, process and automation engineering across their multiple sites and is based out of Laverton. Jane is also a valued mentor to many in the industry.

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  • Andrea brings over two decades of expertise in the transport sector, with a strong focus on project management, business improvement, and operational efficiency. She has been instrumental in managing the tendering process for major public transport contracts and successfully transitioning businesses into these agreements. Currently, as Manager of Contract Compliance at Kinetic Melbourne, Andrea ensures all franchise agreement requirements are met, overseeing everything from detailed reporting to timely submissions.

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  • Now with 12 years of experience, Courtney’s journey in the mining industry began at just 18, working FIFO on a demanding 4-week on, 1-week off schedule. Her early dedication quickly earned her roles in Process and Control Operations with FMG, where she played a pivotal role in commissioning Roy Hill Port and contributing to Rio Tinto’s Remote Operations Centre. After spending three years at Alcoa Kwinana as a Senior Process Technician and Safety Representative, she’s now excelling at CSBP, where she continues to bring her expertise to the team. As one of the few women in this field, Courtney has been instrumental in paving the way for future female leaders.

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  • As the Plant Director at Mondelez International, Roberta leads the largest Cadbury manufacturing plant in Hobart and the milk processing plant in Burnie. With 12 years at Mondelez and international experience in Italy, Canada and Australia under her belt, she’s passionate about manufacturing, lean processes and fostering team engagement. Roberta takes pride in driving efficiency while empowering her diverse team to achieve their best.

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  • With a background in engineering and experience across wholesale, retail, airline, OEM and logistics industries, Kari is a recognised Global Supply Chain leader. Known for pioneering automation and technology, she excels in designing, implementing and operating complex supply chains. Her leadership and focus on strategic innovation have consistently delivered impactful solutions, earning her a reputation for forward-thinking. A passionate mentor, she dedicates herself to inspiring and developing future talent in the industry.

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  • As Business Services Supervisor at Lineage Logistics, Lisa plays a crucial role in bridging the office team and warehouse operations, ensuring seamless and efficient daily activities. Her manager, recognising her diverse skills and extensive experience gained from various roles over the years, encouraged her to step into this position, marking a significant development in her career.

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  • Since joining the mining industry in 2015 as a metallurgical technician, Farzana Adina-Zada has advanced through roles fueled by her passion for learning and leadership. Her curiosity about process plants led her to become a process operator, and her focus on people and culture elevated her to leadership positions overseeing operations across multiple sites. Now an Operations Superintendent, Farzana is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion and continuous improvement. She aims to create a legacy where proactive contributions are celebrated and employees love coming to work each day.

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  • Having begun her career in accounting as a CPA-qualified professional, providing financial and analytical insights across Sales, Marketing and Supply Chain, for Manufacturing and Distribution companies she took on a leadership role in Operations at a global FMCG company before arriving at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners for the second time to lead the Vic/Tas Equipment Services team. Her extensive experience across various sectors, combined with her leadership expertise, enables her to drive operational excellence and foster collaborative environments, with a strong focus on developing talent and ensuring her teams thrive.

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  • After a 20-year career break, Belinda returned to the workforce as a cleaner and expressed an interest in driving transport trucks. With the full support of RTL Transport—a company committed to workforce development and gender diversity—Belinda upskilled and completed her Heavy Combination License in under 12 months. Since then, RTL has continued to invest in her growth and foster her progress, advancing her from forklifts to driving a tray truck, and she is now competent to drive semi combination trucks.

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  • Leila’s love for business started in high school, sparking her decision to study it at university with a focus on Logistics & Supply Chain Management. During her studies, she completed a two-year full-time operations internship in the filtration unit at Cummins Inc. After graduating, Leila joined ITW Construction Products’ graduate program, rotating through operations, marketing and HR. Stepping out of her comfort zone, she moved into sales as an Account Manager for Paslode, where she discovered a passion for sales. Now a Key Account Manager for Paslode and Stockade, Leila’s journey shows that regardless of what you study or expect your career to be, it can change in exciting ways.

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  • After an unexpected start to her journey in logistics in 2007, Iresha has progressed through various roles, both in Sydney and Melbourne, taking both sideways moves and steps up in her career. Now, as State Logistics Manager – NSW for Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, Iresha manages three distribution centres and oversees transport operations for NSW/ACT, where she continues to thrive on the dynamic nature of the industry and the excitement each day brings.

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  • Rebecca’s career has been driven by a passion for understanding how things are made and fostering growth in others. Currently, an Operations manager at B&D – a company with a strong history of women in operations – she started her career in food sciences, before moving into leadership roles in team management, troubleshooting and project management. Career highlights include being the first female site manager at CHEP Australia and the first female to lead a site at Orrcon, during one of the industry’s most challenging times.

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  • With over 22 years in the energy industry, Jay has progressed to become Manager of Engineering – Zone Substations at Essential Energy, overseeing assets valued at $2.3 billion. Career highlights incorporate pioneering early (prior to COVID) remote working framework and participating in the 2022 bid for the Central West Orange Renewable Energy Zone, drawing on her extensive experience in network planning and system control. Contributing to Essential Energy’s responses to multiple natural disasters,
    including the 2019 Rappville bushfires and 2022 Northern Rivers floods, have been highlights in her career. Jay is known for her collaborative approach and strong stakeholder engagement.

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  • Meet Zrina Johnson Production Supervisor at  Bradken. Having started on the floor nearly a decade ago, Zrina worked her way up to become a Production Supervisor and has been in her role for over two years. In this role she oversees daily production in the foundry, affording her the opportunity to interact with a wide range of people, something she very much enjoys.

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  • Rebecca Landon, Chief of Staff to the CEO at Incitec Pivot (Dyno Nobel), rose to this role after leading coal explosives operations across Queensland and NSW as General Manager of Operations. Leading more than 300 employees and managing a multi-million-dollar annual budget, she ensured safe, efficient and cost-effective delivery of explosives to coal mining operations.

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  • Philippa Zarebski is the Manager of the Project Commercialisation team for Australia & New Zealand at Mondelez International. From leading a major factory transfer to managing complex stakeholder initiatives, Philippa has built a reputation for delivering results. After two career breaks for her children, she returned to lead a high-performing team, balancing flexible work with her passion for innovation and leadership.

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  • With a degree in chemical engineering, Trista Coco began her career in brewing and now works as a Packaging Quality Specialist at Asahi Beverages’ Abbotsford Brewery. Her role spans logistics, packaging, quality, planning and marketing, ensuring seamless operations and high-quality outcomes. Having worked across multiple sites and states, Trista thrives on problem-solving and collaboration, using her engineering expertise to continuously improve packaging processes.

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  • Joining ProPharma Whangarei in 2018 as Warehouse Supervisor after 11 years of successfully running her own Transport Logistics business, Deidre’s leadership and dedication quickly earned her a promotion to Operations Manager in 2021. Known for her humble yet effective approach, Deidre consistently empowers her team to achieve operational excellence and customer satisfaction. A strong advocate for Health & Safety, she leads by example, creating a culture where safety and quality are top priorities.

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The purpose of this campaign is to amplify the stories of women in operational roles.  

Your nomination not only recognises your nominee’s success publicly (which is awesome for boosting self-efficacy and confidence) , it also draws attention to your employer brand and the exciting opportunities your business offers for people of all genders. Our desired outcome is that other businesses in your sector and the broader community start to see that the landscape is changing and really shake up some of those pesky gender stereotypes! 

 

Please join our campaign by nominating women and non-binary (they/them and she/her identifying) people in your business to be profiled on our social media and website throughout 2024.  

Nominees will also be offered the opportunity to be guests on ‘What a Job’ – our fortnightly online Check In & Chats.

The nomination process is quick and easy – complete the short form by clicking the button below. Your nominee will then be sent an email inviting them to participate in a way that works for them.

Nominate a woman in operations from your team