Being a great teammate is about more than getting your work done. In operational environments, how you show up, communicate, and contribute to the people around you can have a real impact on outcomes, safety, and team effectiveness.

In this Career Club session, NAWO welcomes Hugh Sullivan, recently appointed Head of Health and Safety Operations at UNSW, for a grounded conversation on what it means to be “all in” for your team while also working in ways that are sustainable and authentic.

With more than 35 years of operational experience, Hugh brings deep insight into the intersection of systems, culture, behaviour and leadership. Across roles in oil and gas, mining, infrastructure, chemicals and consulting, Hugh has spent his career supporting teams through complexity, change and high‑risk environments. He is also a mentor in the NAWO Mentoring Program this year.

In conversation with NAWO CEO Louise Weine, Hugh will explore:

• What being “all in” really looks like in day‑to‑day operational teams
• Building trust and contribution without overextending yourself
• Collaborating across difference and navigating team dynamics
• Showing up with clarity and care during periods of change
• Practical reflections for new team members and established teams alike

This session is particularly relevant if you have recently joined a new team, are navigating shifting priorities, or want to reflect on how you contribute to team effectiveness in demanding environments.

About Hugh Sullivan

Hugh Sullivan is Head of Health and Safety Operations at UNSW, with more than 35 years of experience across operational, technical and leadership roles. Originally a Chartered Chemical Engineer, Hugh now specialises in safety leadership, organisational excellence and large‑scale culture change.

Hugh has worked across a wide range of industries including oil and gas, mining, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals and consulting, supporting organisations to align systems, behaviours and leadership to achieve sustainable performance and improved safety outcomes. Known for his practical, human‑centred approach, he brings deep insight into how teams operate in complex, high‑risk environments.

Hugh has held senior consulting roles with dss+, a NAWO member company, and is a mentor in the NAWO Mentoring Program. He is passionate about building capability in others and supporting teams to navigate change in ways that are both effective and inclusive.