By David Hall, Leadership and Talent, APS Academy
The ATO recently brought together some of Australia’s most accomplished public and private sector leaders for APS Senior Executive Service Leadership Conversations, the flagship event of the ATO’s SES Talent Development Program.
Designed to inspire and challenge emerging leaders, the recently held annual forum provided participants with a unique opportunity to engage directly with secretaries and agency heads, explore the realities of leadership, and gain practical insights from those leading some of the largest and most complex agencies across the APS.
This year brought together decades of leadership experience in the same room to reflect candidly on what it takes to lead effectively in an increasingly complex and fast-paced environment, with panellists from across the public service, including:
- Rob Heferen, Commissioner of Taxation
- Michael Lye, Secretary of the Department of Social Services
- Jenny Wilkinson, Secretary to the Treasury
- Matt Yannopoulos, Secretary of the Department of Finance
- Liz Hefren-Webb, Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner
- Margaret Tregurtha, Acting Director General of IP Australia
- Mark Sawade, Chief Information Officer of the Australian Taxation Office
- Jenny West, General Manager of the Australian Institute of Company Directors
A consistent message throughout the discussion was the importance of clarity, focus and deliberate action. Panellists challenged participants to focus their efforts on what matters most, recognising that leadership is not defined by doing more, but by directing time, energy and attention where they can have the greatest impact.
The conversation also explored authentic leadership and resilience. Panellists reflected on moments when leadership required them to operate beyond their natural preferences and move outside of their comfort zones, adapting their style to meet the needs of different teams, challenges and circumstances, while continuing to develop capabilities that may not come naturally. They spoke openly about navigating periods of change, pressure and uncertainty, emphasising the importance of maintaining perspective, learning from setbacks and staying focused on purpose.
Beyond the panel discussion, Leadership Conversations also created opportunities for meaningful connections. Bringing together leaders from more than 20 agencies and the private sector, the event fostered new perspectives and stronger professional networks that will continue to support collaboration across the APS.
Reflecting the success of both the event and value of the Talent Development Program, APS Commissioner Jacqui Curtis and Commissioner of Taxation Rob Heferen announced that the APS Academy will partner with the ATO on future iterations of the program. This partnership will help extend the program’s reach and impact, enabling more leaders across the APS to benefit from the insights, connections and development that it provides.
For more leadership learning opportunities, check out the APS Academy’s Leadership and Management craft.