Derek La Ferla, Chairing with Purpose Across Australia’s ASX 200

In this episode of Hearts & Mines, we speak with Derek La Ferla, one of Australia’s most respected ASX 200 chairs and company directors. With more than 30 years’ experience as a corporate lawyer, Derek brings a deep perspective shaped by capital markets, government and industry leadership. A former Chair of Panoramic Nickel and Sandfire Resources, Derek now chairs Greenpeak Energy, Chalice Mining, Icon Engineering and Foodbank WA. He shares insights on governance, strategic leadership and the responsibility of boards in shaping long-term value. Derek La Ferla 🔗 linkedin.com/in/derek-la-ferla-a8512690 David Beilby 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbeilby/ Alana Bray-White 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/alana-bray-white-8b4478219/ ivy & gecko  🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ivy-gecko Timecodes: 00:40 Guest Introduction: Derek La Ferla 02:38 Early Life and Influences 07:06 Leadership in Mining: Challenges and Strategies 20:47 The Role of Vulnerability and Authenticity in Leadership 29:27 Evolving as a Leader 32:04 Navigating Board Tenure and Responsibilities 32:57 The Role and Mindset of a Non-Executive Director 33:46 Risks and Rewards of Being an Independent Director 34:38 Flexibility and Team Dynamics in Board Roles 35:20 Sponsor Acknowledgements 36:28 Mentoring and Enrichment in Board Roles 38:26 Engagement and Image Issues in the Mining Industry 42:14 Leadership and Cultural Ethos in Mining 45:54 Challenges Facing the Australian Mining Industry 49:38 AI in Business and Boardrooms 54:19 Rapid Fire Questions and Reflections 01:04:26 Final Thoughts and Farewell Follow Hearts & Mines 🌐 LinkedIn  🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/hearts-mines Recorded and produced by Podwave Studios:https://podwavestudios.au/ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in 'Hearts & Mines' are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ivy & gecko or any other agency, organisation, employer, or company associated with the podcast. Content provided is for informational purposes only.