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Give To Gain: Stories from Programmed and PERSOL Leaders
Insights, reflections and moments that shaped how we lead – and how we lift others along the way.
Every leadership journey is shaped by moments of challenge, courage, support and growth.
For International Women’s Day 2026, our leaders have shared personal reflections on the experiences that shaped how they lead today. From barriers broken to mentors who made a difference, each story is a reminder that leadership is about both achievement and impact.
This year’s theme, Give To Gain, speaks to the kind of culture we’re building together. When we give our time, knowledge, advocacy, opportunity, or encouragement, we create space for others to grow. And when one person grows, we all move forward.
We hope these stories inspire reflection, conversation, and action, encouraging each of us to consider what we can give in 2026 to help others gain.
Cat Salt
National HSEQ Manager, Programmed Facility Management
"Giving in leadership, to me, is about building others up, recognising strengths and investing time so people can grow."
Laura Zulian
General Manager NSW/ACT, Programmed Skilled Workforce
"For me, International Women’s Day is a chance to reflect on the women who quietly shape our confidence, often long before we realise it ourselves."
Chloe Caruana
Operational Excellence Manager, Programmed Facility Management
“The International Women’s Day theme ‘Give to Gain’ resonates with me because I’ve lived it. When we give generously, we don’t lose anything. We build stronger people, stronger teams and a stronger culture.”
Lorinda Fagence
General Manager WA, Programmed Skilled Workforce
"When we share the full picture, we create space for others to feel seen, supported and confident to show up as themselves."
Gail Tracey
Strategic Sales Manager, Programmed Facility Management
"Real effectiveness comes from listening to understand, not to win. When you listen first, your voice carries more impact later.”
Samantha Cowan
Grp Self Insurance Manager SA, Programmed
"When I show vulnerability or admit I don’t have all the answers, it actually strengthens trust rather than weakening it."
Sarah Renshaw
Growth and Partnership Manager WA, Programmed Apprentices and Traineeships
“All the years I’d spent climbing were really preparing me for what came next. It stopped being about my next step up and became about how I could give back to the next generation.”
Clarissa Natac
National Finance Manager, Programmed Facility Management
“To me, giving in leadership starts with trust. I trust my team, create safe spaces to learn, advocate for them, and give opportunities to grow.”
Nat Hickcox
Head of FM - VIC/TAS & Utilities, Programmed Facility Management
"Within Programmed Facility Management’s apprentice programs, we now see 50% female participation, demonstrating what is possible when opportunity is intentionally created."
Mark Rademaker
Executive General Manager of HR, Programmed
"International Women’s Day is a reminder that fairness, safety and dignity are not ‘women’s issues’ - they’re everyone’s responsibility."
Sarah Swiderski
General Manager WA/VIC, PERSOL
"Instead of dwelling, we focused on solutions. We learned, adapted and moved forward stronger. That shift in mindset changed how I lead."
Ria Cortes
NSW Senior Business Manager, PERSOL
“Meaningful change takes time, patience and consistency, and investing in people ultimately drives stronger business outcomes.”
Stacey Miles
National Contract Administrator, Programmed Property Services
“Give to Gain is not just about what others gain from us ‘giving’ as leaders, it is what WE also ‘gain’ by ‘giving’ to others.”
Kavya Kumar
General Manager, Projects, Programmed Facility Management
“Leadership is defined by trust and space for others to grow. It is about creating environments where people feel respected and trusted with autonomy.”
Narelle Palmer
Regional Manager, Programmed Energy & Resources
“When opportunities present themselves for women, I will continue to advocate for their roles – even when they seem non-traditional or unconventional.”
Kubesh Achary
General Manager - Operational Excellence, Programmed Facility Management
“When we give our knowledge, time, and belief to others, we don’t lose anything. We multiply impact. We gain stronger leaders, stronger teams, and stronger communities.”