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PODCAST · business

The Downer Difference

by Downer Group

Welcome to The Downer Difference, the podcast inspired by the launch of Downer’s new culture, created to share the stories of our people and the impact they’re making shaping Downer’s success. Through engaging conversations, we dive into what makes Downer tick - from driving a high-performance culture to delivering remarkable outcomes for our customers and empowering communities to thrive by standing for each other. Whether you're part of the Downer team or simply curious about what makes a leading infrastructure and services provider excel, this is your backstage pass to the heart of Downer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Sep 24, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Leading The Downer Difference

    In this episode, we speak with Sam Astwood-Maddren, National Defence Manager, about how data-driven decision making, strong teamwork and a calm, solutions-focused mindset can transform performance on some of New Zealand’s most complex contracts. Sam shares how having the right data enables better...

  2. Showing up as a leader: the path to operational impact

    In this episode, we sit down with Peter Welling, Executive General Manager, Health & Education, to explore the leadership habits that drive operational excellence. We discuss what it means to show up as a leader, how strong team dynamics accelerate performance, and why raising organisational...

  3. Leading with momentum

    In this episode, we sit down with Murray Robertson, Managing Director New Zealand, to explore his leadership journey across New Zealand’s evolving construction and infrastructure landscape. Murray reflects on the importance of staying agile and well-rounded – knowing when to step up and when to...

  4. From IT to cyber ready

    In this episode, we speak with Deniz Molokov, Acting Chief Information Officer at Downer, about the evolving cyber-risk landscape and how organisations like Downer are stepping up. We dive into what it takes to build and coach high-performing cyber teams beyond traditional IT borders, how…

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  5. Lead real. Grow right.

    A year after our first conversation with Peter, we reconnect to explore how leadership and growth have evolved at Downer. This episode unpacks what it means to lead authentically, create real customer value, and sustain growth in the right way. We discuss the cultural shifts needed to stay...

  6. Championing a high-performance culture

    In this episode of The Downer Difference, we sit down with Michael Franks, Defence Sector Leader and recipient of the Downer Culture Champion Award. A proud Air Force veteran and golf enthusiast, Michael brings a unique perspective shaped by his military engineering background and his current…

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  7. Toolbox and rituals to drive culture change

    In this episode of The Downer Difference, we speak with Jarred Rowland, Senior Project Manager at Downer Rail & Transit Systems, about his journey from the tools to becoming a senior leader, and how frontline experience has shaped his approach to safety, leadership, and culture change. Jarred...

  8. The power of being laser focused

    In this episode of The Downer Difference, we explore what makes good companies great and the hidden truths about the CIO role. Joining us is Nicola Dorling, Group CIO, Downer Digital, who shares her insights on business transformation, enabling delivery, and excellence as a pursuit. From her...

  9. Bitumen, Bold Ideas, and the Road to Sustainability

    With oversight of more than 3 million tonnes of asphalt produced annually and responsibility for the procurement, supply, and production of over 300 million litres of bitumen products, George is a recognised expert in road construction and surfacing solutions. His deep industry knowledge and...

  10. Fuelling new energy in a complex landscape

    In this episode of The Downer Difference, we deep dive into developing relationships with multinational partners to develop green transport corridors across the planet. Joining us is Christian Douglas, Future Architecture Energy Lead at Downer, who shares his insights on solving complex energy...

  11. Finding the right team to deliver the best show

    In this episode of The Downer Difference, we dive into the critical elements of building and sustaining high-performing teams. Success isn’t just about strategy - it’s about owning the outcomes, fostering the right team dynamics, and creating an environment where people can thrive. Joining us is...

  12. Women at Full Volume

    In this special International Women’s Day episode of The Downer Difference, we sit down with Emma Gamblin, Chair of EmpowHer - Downer’s first enterprise-wide employee network supporting women across the business. Creating an inclusive workplace isn’t just the right thing to do, it drives better...

  13. Culture and Strategy Unplugged

    In this episode of The Downer Difference, we sat down with Peter Tompkins, Downer Group CEO, as he reflects on what The Downer Difference means to them and how it’s shaping Downer’s work. This episode begins with a relaxed and intimate conversation, starting with book recommendations - perhaps a...

  14. The Downer Difference - Trailer

    Welcome to The Downer Difference, the podcast inspired by the launch of Downer’s new culture, created to share the stories of our people and the impact they’re making shaping Downer’s success. Through engaging conversations, we dive into what makes Downer tick - from driving a high-performance...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to The Downer Difference, the podcast inspired by the launch of Downer’s new culture, created to share the stories of our people and the impact they’re making shaping Downer’s success.

Through engaging conversations, we dive into what makes Downer tick - from driving a high-performance culture to delivering remarkable outcomes for our customers and empowering communities to thrive by standing for each other.

Whether you're part of the Downer team or simply curious about what makes a leading infrastructure and services provider excel, this is your backstage pass to the heart of Downer.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HOSTED BY

Downer Group

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Downer Difference have?

The Downer Difference currently has 14 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Downer Difference about?

Welcome to The Downer Difference, the podcast inspired by the launch of Downer’s new culture, created to share the stories of our people and the impact they’re making shaping Downer’s success. Through engaging conversations, we dive into what makes Downer tick - from driving a high-performance...

How often does The Downer Difference release new episodes?

The Downer Difference has 14 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Downer Difference?

You can listen to The Downer Difference on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Downer Difference?

The Downer Difference is created and hosted by Downer Group.
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