In this episode of Exec Exchange, host Piers Clark interviews Shaun Cumming, the managing director of Barwon Water in Australia. They discuss how First Nations values influence leadership within modern water utilities. Shaun shares his journey into the water sector, the operations and challenges faced by Barwon Water, and several case studies demonstrating the integration of First Nations principles into their business practices. Topics include environmental flows, project management, the circular economy, and preparing for future challenges like AI and climate change. Shaun also shares personal insights on mindfulness and the significance of cultural awareness training. The episode concludes with Shaun reflecting on a recent emotional experience in nature. In sharing this podcast, Shaun would like to acknowledge Traditional Custodians generous sharing of knowledge and First Nations leadership insights from Arranyinha and Waanyari.
00:00 Introduction to the Exec Exchange Podcast 00:35 Meet Shaun Cumming: Journey into the Water Sector 01:42 Overview of Barwon Water 02:48 First Nations Values and Leadership 04:37 Challenges and Initiatives at Barwon Water 06:27 Case Studies: Cultural Flows and Projects 10:15 Circular Economy and Future Challenges 12:56 Embedding Values in Business Processes 13:47 Personal Reflections and Conclusion
