September 7, 2023

How to successfully transition into an executive leadership role: panel discussion

UOW graduates Paul Scully and Jihad Dib share their insights into developing leadership skills

University of Wollongong (UOW) graduates and New South Wales Government Ministers the Hon. Paul Scully MP and the Hon. Jihad Dib MP shared their insights on executive leadership development at an event at UOW’s Sydney CBD campus on Wednesday night.

Also present were UOW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Patricia M. Davidson and Dean of Business Professor Grace McCarthy. Mr Dib and Mr Scully shared their insights and experiences as leaders in their respective roles and gave their perspectives on how to successfully drive organisational change and deliver transformative outcomes.

Mr Dib, Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Emergency Services, and Youth Justice, and Mr Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, spoke about the paths their careers have followed since graduating from UOW, as they have gone on to represent the residents of NSW and advocate for the State’s interests.

“I look back incredibly fondly on my time at UOW and I am privileged that my education and the skills and experience I gained there have helped me shape my career in public service,” Minister Dib said.

They also shared insights on where to next for the NSW Government in 2024 and beyond.

Mr Scully highlighted the importance of accountability and clear communication as an essential mix of strengths required to become a successful leader.

“Navigating the shift from an executive to a leadership position requires a blend of strategic thinking, interpersonal skills, and a clear understanding of organisational dynamics,” Mr Scully said.

“In the NSW Government, we are looking for avenues to collaborate with industry experts and universities to enable our people to upskill themselves and to get up to speed with current needs of the business.

“This transition is not solely about title change but rather a fundamental shift in responsibilities and approach.”

Professor Davidson highlighted the importance of decision making in a timely manner that could have an impact on the overall functioning of an organisation.

“I am delighted to share this stage with leaders who are highly accomplished in their respective fields and whose work makes a positive impact on the lives of many people,” Professor Davidson said.

“It is also a testament to the quality of the teaching and learning programs that UOW is known for.”

“Through our Executive MBA program, which is the top-ranked EMBA program in Australia, we aim to give many more people the leadership skills and industry networks they can use to succeed in their careers too, whether that’s in government and politics, industry and business or in other fields of endeavour.”