High Impact Business & Leadership Award: The 2024 nominees

As the Chief Executive of Bureau Veritas Australia, Andrew Mortimore (VIC) leads a dedicated team of over 2,200 employees committed to the mission of shaping a world of trust through responsible progress. With a legacy of almost 200 years, Bureau Veritas operates globally, employing over 80,000 engineers, inspectors, auditors, scientists, laboratory technicians, and other specialist staff, who collectively ensure safety and integrity in our daily lives—from the buildings we inhabit to the food we consume and the energy we utilise.

Andrew has more than 25 years of experience in the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) sector. His extensive career has provided him with valuable experience in various industries, including manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, conventional and renewable energy, building construction and rail and road infrastructure. His leadership is characterised by a focus on building strong, customer-centric teams that prioritise quality, safety and sustainability and continually innovate through digitalisation and automation.

Beyond his role at Bureau Veritas, Andrew is deeply committed to the French-Australian business community and is an active member of the French Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FACCI). He has played a crucial role in fostering stronger ties between France and Australia, promoting bilateral trade and investment, and enhancing collaboration among businesses.

Andrew is also passionate about environmental issues and Aboriginal reconciliation. He actively supports initiatives that promote sustainable practices and respect for Indigenous rights and culture, recognizing the importance of integrating these values into business operations and community engagement.

A dedicated advocate for research and continuous learning, Andrew has studied at leading business schools, including Harvard Business School and Cambridge University. As a regular guest lecturer and through his research as part of both PhD and MBA programs Andrew continues to demonstrate his commitment to innovation and lifelong learning.

With a proven track record of delivering value for clients and driving operational improvements, Andrew continues to lead Bureau Veritas toward a sustainable future. His influence extends beyond the company, contributing to a collaborative environment for the French-Australian business community while championing environmental sustainability and Aboriginal reconciliation.

Cedric Lemetter is the Chief Operations Officer for L'Oréal Australia & New Zealand, responsible for overseeing the efficient delivery of L’Oréal’s portfolio of 32 brands and 9,000 products to over 13,000 customers. Cedric's leadership ensures that these operations not only meet cost and timing objectives but also align with L’Oréal's sustainability goals, focusing on reducing carbon emissions. He leads a talented team across two countries, six sites, and four distribution centres, driving innovation and operational excellence.

Among Cedric’s recent achievements is the successful launch of a state-of-the-art multimillion-dollar distribution centre in Brisbane, delivered both on time and within budget. Under his leadership, L’Oréal has achieved a 45% reduction in air freight emissions and brought waste from obsolete product destruction to nearly zero — meeting L’Oréal’s global 2030 sustainability targets six years ahead of schedule. His efforts reflect L’Oréal’s commitment to ‘Create the Beauty that Moves the World.’

With 19 years of experience in supply chain management within leading Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) multinationals, including Unilever, Johnson & Johnson, and now L’Oréal, Cedric is a seasoned executive with a proven track record of operational excellence. His 12-year tenure in the food industry saw him lead global projects, such as designing two of Unilever’s top five factories (in South Africa and China), spearheading major transformational initiatives in the Savoury category, and managing large-scale operations as the Head of a factory in Malaysia.

Cedric later transitioned to the healthcare sector, coordinating strategic supply chain initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region for Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health before becoming Head of Supply Chain for the Australia and New Zealand Consumer Health business. Now at L’Oréal, Cedric is also an active member of key industry bodies, such as the Australian Food & Grocery Association and the Australian Supply Chain Institute, where he contributes to shaping industry standards and addressing supply chain challenges.

Cedric’s passion lies in driving change, leading transformational programs, and fostering dynamic business environments. His skills include deep technical expertise — particularly in the food industry, where he holds several patents and publications — alongside strong leadership, project management, and communication skills. His international experience spans multiple geographies, including Asia, Africa, and Europe, making him a highly adaptable leader with a global perspective.

Colette Munro (QLD) is the Pacific Zone President of Schneider Electric, where she is highly regarded for her experience and expertise in digitalisation within the energy, mining, and infrastructure sectors. In her role, Colette is responsible for steering Schneider Electric towards its next era of success in the region’s key markets.

As a member of Schneider’s International Operations Management Committee, she focuses on delivering profitable growth, increasing market share, and accelerating digital and field services. Colette is committed to strengthening the company’s position in the evolving energy landscape.

A chartered engineer, Colette brings extensive international experience in electrical engineering, industrial control, and infrastructure design. She is passionate about empowering businesses, teams, and individuals to harness the transformative potential of digital technologies, particularly to achieve positive environmental and social outcomes.

Before her current role, Colette held various leadership positions in innovation and digital transformation at Citect and had a distinguished 13-year tenure at Schneider Electric. Most recently, she served as Global Chief Digital Officer at AECOM, a leading infrastructure consulting firm.

Corinne Bot (Polyglot Group, NSW) is a trailblazer in global human resources and community leadership. Born in Paris, she relocated to Sydney in 1990 after earning a Master’s degree in Industrial Psychology. Corinne began her career with one of the largest headhunting firms of the time but quickly recognised a market niche and founded Polyglot Group, initially focusing on bilingual and bicultural recruitment to assist foreign companies entering Australia.

Over the past 30 years, Polyglot Group has transformed from a one-woman operation into a leading global HR partner, helping businesses optimise their operations locally and internationally. As a comprehensive service provider, the company offers clients a single point of contact for all international development and HR needs, allowing them to concentrate on their core competencies.

Since 1995, Corinne has played a pivotal role in facilitating the expansion of numerous French companies into Australia, including Decathlon, Pierre Fabre, Naval Group, Areco, and ARC. She has also supported Australian businesses like Jurlique and Zimmermann in entering the French market.

A staunch advocate for true intersectional equality, Corinne embraces diverse identities across gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, language, religion, and socio-economic status. Her commitment to inclusivity has fostered a richly diverse team at Polyglot Group, which employs 70 staff members, featuring a gender distribution of 67% female and 33% male, along with an evenly balanced leadership team. The company also celebrates age diversity, with team members ranging from 21 to 66 years old, promoting a culture of respect, growth, and creativity.

Corinne’s dedication to diversity and community involvement is evident through her extensive service as a Trade Adviser for the French Government for over 23 years and her leadership within the French community in Australia. She served as president of the board of Lycée Condorcet for five years, playing a crucial role in acquiring the Maroubra campus. Additionally, she was the NSW president of the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry from 2009 to 2011.

Her remarkable contributions have been recognised with numerous awards, including the Legion of Honour Medal in 2016, the Australian Export Awards in 2017, and the NSW Telstra Business Women’s Award in 2010. Corinne’s ongoing commitment to the French-Australian community is deeply valued by her team, who believe she deserves recognition for her tireless work and passion.

Jason Collins (NSW) was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the European Australian Business Council (EABC) in 2007. As CEO, Jason leads a team responsible for delivering the Council’s business advocacy and policy programmes, as well as managing membership and institutional relations with government agencies, chambers, industry groups, and other stakeholders.

He is also the Chair of European Business Organisations (EBO Worldwide), a peak association headquartered in Brussels, representing European chambers of commerce and business councils in over fifty countries across Africa, the Americas, Asia, the Indo-Pacific, and Europe. He serves as the Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Belgium in Sydney.

Jason is a non-executive director and chair of the governance, nomination, and remuneration committee of Business Events Sydney. He is a member of Screen Producers Australia’s export advisory council, Chair of the Australia Youth Trust, and a former Chair of the Australasian Sponsorship Marketing Association.

He serves on the advisory boards of various Australian and Europe-based government and research centres, as well as industry groups, including the UTS Business School Dean’s Industry Advisory Board. Additionally, he is an Honorary Board Member of the Swedish Australian Chamber of Commerce and a regular commentator on trade and investment issues at business events and in the media.

The European Australian Business Council (EABC) is the premier corporate forum for promoting the trade and investment relationship between Australia and Europe, representing Australia’s most significant economic partner and an expanding market of over 500 million consumers for Australian services exports and investment.

The Council provides an effective forum for private and public sector leaders to engage in high-level discussions on economic and public policy issues affecting the bilateral business relationship, as well as joint cooperation on a range of mutual interests. As an independent, private sector-led initiative, the Council also works with Australian and European governments, diplomatic missions and trade agencies, international organisations, and bilateral chambers and other peak business associations.

Jessica Fox (International Olympic Committee, NSW), OAM, is a French-born Australian slalom canoeist celebrated as one of the greatest individual paddlers of all time. A ten-time World Champion, eleven-time World Cup champion, and three-time Olympic champion, her athletic prowess has earned her a distinguished reputation in the world of sports. Notably, she secured gold and bronze medals at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, and a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics. In 2018, she further solidified her legacy by becoming the greatest slalom athlete ever after winning her seventh World Title.

Jessica’s leadership extends beyond her impressive athletic career. Recently elected to the IOC Athletes' Commission during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, she will serve as a member until the Brisbane 2032 Games, advocating for the interests of athletes on a global stage. She is also actively involved with the AOC Athlete Commission and the Paddle Australia Athlete Commission, contributing her insights and experiences to improve the sporting landscape.

As a motivational speaker, Jessica captivates audiences at schools, corporate functions, and major events, inspiring individuals with her journey and insights. She has served as an ambassador for initiatives such as the NSW Premier's Sporting Challenge and the Halogen Foundation Leadership Conferences, where she has motivated thousands of students.

Currently pursuing her MBA, Jessica combines her dedication to athletics with a passion for leadership and social impact. Her commitment to excellence, both on and off the water, positions her as a formidable role model and a driving force for positive change in the sporting world and beyond.

Kevin Werksman (ACT) is the CEO of SUEZ Australia and New Zealand, where he leads the charge in promoting sustainable water management practices. With a deep commitment to the belief that water is a finite and precious resource, Kevin aligns SUEZ’s mission with his vision of building a sustainable water future. He imagines and collaborates with communities to address water challenges, striving to create impactful solutions that contribute to a better world. Inspired by the idea that "one drop is all it takes to create a ripple," he champions an inclusive culture that encourages bold conversations and collective action among clients and partners.

Previously, Kevin served as Managing Director for Water at Aurecon, where he oversaw a team of over 400 water professionals across Asia Pacific and Africa, fostering a culture of partnership and collaboration. He also held the position of infrastructure advisory Partner at EY, leading water transactions in Oceania, and worked with Veolia in business development and commercial management roles across the region.

With a strong educational background in economics, engineering, and environmental management, Kevin has advised utilities, governments, and the private sector on a range of infrastructure transactions, business cases, policy challenges, and operational model transformations.

Passionate about building a better world, Kevin thrives on empowering teams and collaborating with others to co-create innovative solutions. He firmly believes in the power of diversity to inspire new ideas and drive meaningful change.

One notable project under Kevin's leadership is the SUEZ Victorian Desalination Plant, a technical and ecological achievement located within a 225-hectare ecological reserve. This facility can supply up to one-third of the drinking water required by the Melbourne metropolitan area, demonstrating the vital role of reuse and desalination in addressing climate change challenges. Through such initiatives, Kevin exemplifies his dedication to creating sustainable practices that benefit both people and the planet.

Mélanie Chamaux (Servier, VIC) is a French International Pharma Executive Leader, highly respected, with over 22 years of transformative experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Holding a PharmD from the University of Paris XI and a Master’s degree from HEC Business School in Paris, she has excelled in high-impact roles across France, Europe, and Asia, leading diverse, intercultural teams with passion and precision.

With a strategic mindset and a consistent track record, Mélanie has demonstrated courage and tenacity in driving high-impact business outcomes. Her leadership has been pivotal in revitalising organisations, creating value, and setting new industry standards. Her dedication to advancing healthcare and transforming businesses is equalled only by her commitment to improving patients' lives.

An authentic and dynamic leader, Mélanie strives to foster vibrant, inclusive, and agile workplace cultures that ignite innovation and excellence. Her passion for making a positive impact on both people and the planet is unmistakable. She empowers her teams to reach their full potential, nurturing environments where creativity and high performance thrive.

Deeply committed to sharing her journey as a female leader, Mélanie actively mentors others, offering guidance through the complexities of international leadership and intercultural management. Balancing her successful career with family life, including raising two teenage boys, she exemplifies how professional achievement and personal fulfilment can harmoniously coexist. Her story is one of inspiration, highlighting both exceptional leadership and meaningful personal growth.

Pascal Dupond (NSW) is Managing Director of Alstom Australia and New Zealand — a French-Australian company. Pascal has demonstrated an extraordinary entrepreneurial spirit and leadership to grow and transform Alstom into the leading end-to-end rolling stock rail technology provider in the Australian and New Zealand markets.

When Pascal first joined Alstom, the company had 150 employees in Australia and a limited operational footprint. Under his leadership, supported by the acquisition of Bombardier in 2021, Alstom has experienced remarkable growth while simultaneously enhancing its culture, diversity and social impact. The Alstom workforce has expanded from 150 to 2,500 employees and the number of operational sites increased from 12 to 25​. This tenfold increase in workforce size and operations reflects Pascal’s entrepreneurial leadership style. Revenue has also hit new highs under Pascal’s leadership with Alstom ANZ achieving its most successful year of AUD$1.6B in sales in 2023/4.

Pascal’s ability to lead complex transformation, drive growth, and foster innovation has reshaped Alstom, making him a deserving candidate for the Entrepreneurship Award. Pascal’s approach has demonstrated the vision, creativity, innovation and resilience expected of an entrepreneur. His focus on people, culture, customers and planet has helped drive positive outcomes for Alstom, the broader rail industry and the communities in which Alstom operates.

As part of his entrepreneurial leadership, Pascal recently launched the Alstom ANZ 2024-2027 Strategy, which aims to continue Alstom’s journey to enhance growth, diversity, safety, sustainability, local and global contributions. As brief examples, Pascal has driven the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, including 3D printing and AI tools, which have significantly improved operational efficiency and reinforced Alstom’s position as a pioneer in the rail industry​. Pascal has also prioritised sustainability, with all sites now powered by green energy and a strong emphasis on recyclable products.​

In addition to his internal focus, Pascal has strengthened Alstom’s connections with the French-Australian business community, working closely with the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce and the French Embassy. His involvement in bilateral initiatives, his position on the Board of the Australasian Rail Association, and the Advisory Board for Monash Institute of Railway Technology, highlight his influence beyond Alstom​​. As one example, Pascal has worked closely with the French Embassy to foster research, innovation and academic linkages between France and Australia. This includes influencing French advocacy for the great fit of French High Speed Train technology in the Australian landscape. Pascal’s bilingual capabilities and cultural understanding have been invaluable in leading Alstom as a truly French-Australian company, with work conducted daily in both French and English languages.

Pascal’s commitment to his employees is reflected in his focus on people and culture. He has worked to enhance communication, trust, safety and alignment across Alstom’s workforce to help boost employee morale, engagement and pride in their work​. Pascal is also a diversity champion and the Executive Sponsor of the Alstom Pride group. Alstom maintains above-average workplace indicators for manufacturing across gender and other diversity measures and industry leading progress on reducing the pay gender gap.

In summary, Pascal Dupond’s entrepreneurial leadership has transformed Alstom in Australia and New Zealand, as it has grown from a small operation of 150 employees to a major player with 2,500 employees across 25 sites.

Romain Gravigny (NSW) is the CEO of Decathlon Australia, leading the global sporting goods retailer's expansion and impact across the country. With extensive experience in retail management and a passion for sports, Romain has been instrumental in driving Decathlon’s mission of making sport accessible to all Australians. Under his leadership, Decathlon Australia has grown rapidly, introducing high-quality and affordable sporting goods to a diverse and passionate customer base.

Romain’s journey with Decathlon began in France, where he gained invaluable insights into the company’s innovative approach to retail and customer service. His strategic vision and dynamic leadership style have enabled Decathlon Australia to navigate a highly competitive market, all while staying true to the company's core values of sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. He has successfully overseen the expansion of Decathlon’s footprint, opening multiple stores across Australia and bolstering the company’s online presence, ensuring customers have seamless access to thousands of sporting products.

Romain is not just a business leader; he is a sports enthusiast who understands the transformative power of sport in communities. This passion fuels his commitment to creating a lasting impact through Decathlon’s community initiatives, which include partnerships with local sporting clubs, schools, and events aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles. His leadership has extended Decathlon’s reach far beyond commerce, turning the brand into a key supporter of grassroots sports and an enabler of healthier, more active communities across Australia.

Known for his hands-on approach and collaborative leadership style, Romain empowers his team to innovate and deliver outstanding customer experiences. His focus on team development and operational excellence has not only contributed to the growth of Decathlon Australia but also positioned the company as a leader in customer satisfaction and employee engagement.

Romain Gravigny’s ability to combine business acumen with a deep commitment to sport and community has made him a high-impact leader in the Australian retail landscape.