Battleground Chats

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Zack Gurdon (https://www.linkedin.com/in/zack-g-751719a/) at the RMIA 2026 conference in Canberra to explore his fascinating journey in the world of risk management. From his early days in security and intelligence to his pivotal roles at Australia Post, Telstra, NBN, and now as Chief Risk Officer at ASIC, Zack shares insights into how he navigated career transitions and embraced the challenges of different organisational cultures. We delve into the evolving concept of resilience, discussing its integral components of risk management, business continuity, and crisis management. Zack's experiences highlight the importance of adaptability and the need for simplicity in complex environments. Join us for an engaging conversation that offers a deep dive into the intricacies of risk and resilience in today's dynamic landscape.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Chris Krause (https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-krause-7495511b/) to explore her fascinating journey in the risk and resilience sector. Chris shares how she unexpectedly found herself in the world of risk management after starting her career in accounting and auditing at KPMG. We delve into her experiences transitioning from external to internal audit, and her subsequent roles at PwC and Future Fund, where she discovered her passion for risk management. Chris discusses the evolving landscape of risk, particularly the rising importance of crisis management and cybersecurity. We also explore the challenges and rewards of working in risk within mature organizations and the significance of maintaining a risk mindset. Join us as Chris offers valuable insights into the dynamic world of risk and her current role in the superannuation sector.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Jack Salkild (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacksalkild/), a former paramedic turned risk and resilience expert. Jack shares his journey from working with New South Wales Ambulance to his current role at Battleground, highlighting the critical lessons learned along the way. We delve into the importance of decision-making under pressure and the HALT factors—hungry, angry, late, and tired—that can impair judgment. Jack also emphasizes the value of checklists in high-stakes environments, drawing parallels between aviation and medicine. Join us as we explore how these insights translate into effective crisis management and resilience planning. (As mentioned in the podcast: https://atulgawande.com/book/the-checklist-manifesto/)

Join Joe McDavitt & Paul Minter, on Battleground Chats as we dive into the world of non-financial risk management, Fit and Proper Non-Financial Risk Management. Paul Minter, a former regulator, and Joe explore the complexities of non-financial risk, the challenges of aligning risk management with operational leadership, and the significance of CPS 230. We discuss the often adversarial relationship between COOs and CROs, the importance of understanding context in risk management, and the balance between quantification and qualitative insights. Tune in as we unravel the essentials of proper risk management and share insights from our extensive experience in the field. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the subject, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating the battleground of non-financial risk.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Helen Lipscombe (https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-lipscombe-fbci-b14a1621/) live from BCI World Hybrid in London. Helen shares her unique journey from working on oil rigs as a geologist to becoming a leader in business continuity and crisis management. We delve into how her scientific background shaped her structured approach to resilience planning. Helen emphasises the importance of mindset and culture in building effective resilience strategies, advocating for plans that focus on outcomes rather than rigid scenarios. We discuss the significance of engaging leadership and fostering a culture of adaptability and preparedness. Join us for an insightful conversation on navigating uncertainty and building resilient organizations.

Join me, Craig Goldberg, on Battleground Chats for our special year-end episode, "Battleground Chats - 2025 in Review with the Battleground Crew." I'm joined by Directors Luke Smailes, Joe McDavitt, and Peter Duffy as we delve into the lessons learned from a transformative 2025. We explore the challenges of keeping business continuity plans relevant and the importance of understanding severe but plausible disruptions. Joe highlights the significance of CPS 230 compliance, while Peter discusses moving beyond COVID-era resilience strategies. We also touch on the evolving landscape of risk management, emphasizing the need to address a broader range of threats beyond cyber risks. As we wrap up the year, we reflect on the resilience required to navigate these complexities and look forward to what 2026 may bring. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the state of risk and resilience across industries.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with my long-time friend and resilience expert, Jodie Wentworth (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-wentworth-12896a33/). We delve into Jodie's journey from her early days in the UK, where she stumbled into the field of business continuity, to her pivotal role at London Underground and then in Australia across consulting, utilities and critical infrastructure. Jodie shares her experiences managing crises, from gas leaks to the 7th of July bombings, and how these events shaped her understanding of resilience. We discuss the challenges of connecting back-office operations with frontline crisis management and the continuous learning required in this field. Jodie also reflects on her consulting career, highlighting the importance of demonstrating value and fostering crisis leadership. Join us for an insightful conversation about resilience, risk management, and the lessons learned from a career dedicated to keeping organisations prepared for the unexpected.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Sarah Hobday-Mitchell https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-hobday-mitchell-b9bb713/ at the BCI World Conference in London. We delve into her unexpected journey into the world of risk and resilience, beginning with a role at the CDC and leading to her pivotal work with the US Navy. Sarah shares how her early experiences, like navigating family road trips, shaped her career in business continuity. We explore her insights on the importance of continuous learning, networking, and the challenges of transitioning military skills to civilian resilience roles. Sarah also discusses the future of the industry, emphasising the need for integrated approaches across departments. Join us as we uncover the intricacies of crisis management and the evolving landscape of business continuity.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Paul Minter, a seasoned expert in risk and resilience. Paul shares his unique journey from the UK regulator's economics team to consulting roles and his current work at Battleground. He delves into the importance of understanding the connections within risk management systems and how simplifying data processes can enhance decision-making. Paul emphasizes the critical question, "How do you know?" as a tool to drive better insights and practices in risk management. Join us as we explore the complexities of operational risk, the value of emotional intelligence in the field, and how organizations can leverage their data for improved resilience outcomes. Tune in for an insightful conversation that uncovers practical strategies for navigating the ever-evolving risk landscape.

Join me, Craig Goldberg, on Battleground Chats for a special live recording during Disaster Reduction Week. I'm thrilled to welcome Simon Levy from the RMIA as we delve into the critical themes of disaster reduction and resilience. Together, we explore the economic impact of disasters and the urgent need to shift funding toward resilience. Simon shares compelling stories, like Coca-Cola's communication challenges during a natural disaster, highlighting the importance of preparedness. We discuss the significance of testing organizational limits and learning from failures to enhance resilience. The episode also examines the role of external threats, such as supply chain vulnerabilities, and the importance of a risk-informed approach. Tune in to discover how we can collectively change the narrative and increase investment in disaster reduction, ensuring a more resilient future for all.

Join me, Craig Goldberg, on a special milestone episode of Battleground Chats as we celebrate over 20 insightful conversations with leaders in risk and resilience. In this reflective episode, I explore key themes from our journey so far: the foundational role of risk and the ultimate goal of resilience, the importance of business continuity as a daily practice, and how crises serve as stress tests revealing true strengths. We also delve into the evolving engagement of boards with risk narratives and the critical role of people and culture in building resilience. Thank you to all our incredible guests who have enriched this series. As we look forward to more episodes, we continue to uncover what makes resilience tick and how to enhance it across organizations. Here's to the next chapter of Battleground Chats.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with James Ng (https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-ng-0149243/), a long-time friend since our Deloitte days in 2009. James shares his fascinating journey from IT audits at Deloitte to becoming a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). We delve into his career transitions, highlighting the pivotal role of networking and mentorship. James recounts his experiences at Tabcorp and Telstra, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and building strong professional relationships. We also explore the dynamic world of cybersecurity, discussing its collaborative nature and the shared mission against common threats. Join us as James offers valuable insights for those aspiring to enter or advance in the cybersecurity field, underscoring the need to be proactive in shaping one's career path. Don't miss this engaging conversation on career transformation and the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.

In this live episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Kate Gannon (https://www.linkedin.com/in/aa-kategannon) at the COBA 2025 event in Brisbane to explore her fascinating career journey. From starting as a chartered accountant and auditor in Australia to becoming a process and operating model consultant, Kate shares her experiences working in risk management across the globe. We delve into her time in London, her role in transforming risk frameworks, and the challenges she faced during a cyber crisis. Now leading August Advisory, Kate is passionate about revitalising risk management with a focus on life integration and purposeful change. Join us as we discuss the importance of adding value, teamwork, and bringing humour into the boardroom.

In this live episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Elsbeth Torelli (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elsbeth-torelli-52218421/), a seasoned expert in risk and resilience, at the Customer Owned Banking Association conference in Brisbane. Elsbeth shares her fascinating career journey from a legal executive to a Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at a mutual bank and her transition to board roles, including her position at COBA. We delve into her experiences in risk management, discussing the evolution of the field, the impact of AI, and the importance of balancing risk and compliance. Elsbeth also offers valuable insights for those starting in risk management, emphasising the blend of art and science in navigating this dynamic field. Join us for an engaging conversation on the multifaceted world of risk and resilience.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Paul Perkins (https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulperkins/), a seasoned professional in the risk and resilience space, to explore his fascinating career journey. Starting as an electrical engineer, Paul transitioned into software development, project management, and eventually found his niche in risk and resilience. We delve into the evolution of resilience as an organisation-wide concept and discuss the integration of risk management within various industries, including finance and superannuation. Paul shares insights on the importance of systems thinking and the value of understanding business operations from end to end. Join us as we uncover how engineering principles can enhance risk management and the growing engagement of businesses in risk practices. Whether you're a risk professional or just curious about the field, this conversation offers valuable takeaways on the interconnectedness of risk and resilience.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with my long-time friend, Craig Walsh (https://www.linkedin.com/in/crwalsh/), to explore his remarkable journey from a 25-year policing career to a successful transition into the corporate world. We delve into Craig's experiences in various elite units, including the Armed Robbery Squad and Special Operations Group, and how these roles shaped his approach to crisis management and continuous improvement. Craig shares insights on leadership, authenticity, and the importance of being open to feedback. We also discuss his transition to Crown Casino, where he implemented significant changes and navigated challenging inquiries. Join us for an engaging conversation about resilience, adaptability, and the power of reflective practice.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with my good friend and colleague, Peter Duffy (https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-duffy-6830782), to explore his fascinating career journey in risk and resilience. From his early days at Ernst & Winnie to navigating the challenges at HIH Insurance and Ansett, Peter shares insights into the world of insolvency and the lessons learned from high-stakes situations. We delve into his time at CSIRO, discussing the complexities of managing risk in a multidisciplinary research environment. Now consulting with Battleground, Peter reflects on the full-circle nature of his career and the pivotal experiences that have shaped his approach to risk management. Join us for an engaging conversation filled with stories of resilience, innovation, and real-world risk management.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I am thrilled to sit down with Jane Couchman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-couchman-89839622/), Chief Risk Officer and Group Executive for Sustainability at Aware Super. Jane shares her journey from a country solicitor to a leader in risk management and sustainability. We delve into her passion for banking and finance, her views on the evolving role of risk management, and the integration of sustainability into her work. Jane highlights the importance of agility, digitisation, and the strategic role of risk professionals in today's organisations. We also explore her thoughts on the future of risk management, including the impact of AI and the need for versatile skill sets. Join us as we uncover the exciting opportunities and challenges in the world of risk and resilience.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Martin Simpson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-simpson-1260/), founder and CEO of a boutique advisory firm in the UK, to explore his fascinating journey from aspiring fighter pilot to resilience expert. Martin shares how his career path took unexpected turns, leading him through roles at GE, Deloitte, and PwC, and ultimately to founding Big Wing Advisory. We delve into the principles of risk and resilience, drawing parallels between aviation and corporate strategy. Martin emphasises the importance of preparedness and adaptability in facing disruptions, offering insights into how organisations can build true resilience. Join us as we discuss the lessons learned from Martin's diverse experiences and his vision for helping businesses navigate the complexities of today's world.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with my long-time friend and risk management expert, John Murton (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-murton-169a3643/). As John prepares for a well-deserved break from the industry, we delve into his fascinating career journey, spanning from law and tax to risk management and business continuity. John shares insights from his time at Fosters and AustralianSuper, highlighting the importance of keeping things simple and understanding your business. We also discuss the evolution of crisis testing and the impact of regulatory changes. Join us for a compelling conversation on the art of resilience and risk management.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Vivek Chopra (https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivek-chopra-b-com-m-acc-fcpa-gaicd-amiia-aicgg-96a72140/), a seasoned expert in risk and resilience. Vivek shares his fascinating journey from external auditor to becoming a key figure in risk management. We delve into the importance of storytelling in transitioning careers, the challenges of keeping pace with technological and environmental changes, and the concept of "risk and resilience fatigue." Vivek emphasises the need for continuous learning and collaboration to stay relevant in the ever-evolving risk landscape. He also discusses the shifting dynamics in risk assessments and the growing demand for transparency from boards and committees. Join us for an insightful conversation that explores the future of risk management, and the strategies needed to thrive in this critical field.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with my long-time friend and risk expert, Simon Levy (https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-levy-gaicd-mrmia-2862068), CEO of RMIA. We delve into Simon's fascinating career journey, from his beginnings in science and manufacturing to leading the RMIA. Simon shares insights on how risk and resilience have evolved beyond mere theories to become integral in strategic decision-making. We discuss the rapid pace of disruption in the risk landscape, the integration of risk with business strategy, and the future role of risk professionals as strategic advisors. Simon also highlights the importance of continuous learning and collaboration within the industry. Join us as we explore the dynamic world of risk management and what lies ahead for professionals in this ever-changing field.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Julian Wakim (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-wakim-a2733526/) to explore his fascinating journey in risk management. From the stunning views of Sydney Harbour, Julian shares insights from his 20-year career spanning healthcare, biotech, fintech, and financial services. We delve into his experiences working in the US, particularly in San Francisco, where he navigated the complexities of technology risk management. Julian discusses the transition from professional services to industry, highlighting the importance of practical risk management and the challenges of embedding it within organizations. We also touch on the evolving landscape of operational risk, particularly in light of CPS 230, and the value of making risk management a dynamic and engaging field. Join us for an engaging conversation about the diverse paths and opportunities within the world of risk.

Join me, Craig Goldberg, on Battleground Chats as I delve into the fascinating risk journey of Damian Connell (https://www.linkedin.com/in/damian-connell-1162a131/). In this episode, we explore Damian's incredible transition from a 15-year-old working at Tip Top Bakeries to becoming a key figure in the consulting world. Discover how Damian's bold move at 17, asking for a sales role, set the stage for a career filled with resilience and risk management. We discuss his ventures with the 'as seen on TV' retail stores and the challenges faced during the GFC. Damian shares his insights on planning for the unforeseeable and the importance of being prepared for the implausible. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about navigating life's unexpected turns and the lessons learned along the way.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Jo Papantoniou (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-papantoniou-88676a23/) to explore her unexpected journey into the world of risk and resilience. Jo shares her fascinating career path, from starting at NAB in a call centre to becoming a senior crisis manager at Crown Casino. We delve into her experiences managing resilience across diverse industries, including financial services, critical infrastructure, and data centers. Jo emphasizes the importance of preparation and adaptability, highlighting how skills can be transferred across sectors. We also discuss the evolving nature of risk, noting that what were once considered rare events are now becoming more frequent. Join us as we uncover insights into building resilience and preparing for the unexpected.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with my longtime friend Andrew Duane (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewduane) to explore his fascinating journey through the world of risk and resilience. With over two decades of experience, Andrew shares insights from his early days in computer network defense at the UK Ministry of Defence to his current role as Head of Risk at Wesfarmers. We delve into the evolution of risk management, discussing how foundational concepts remain relevant despite advancements in tools and technology. Andrew highlights the importance of aligning risk management with business strategy and culture, emphasizing its role in protecting shareholder value. Join us as we navigate the complexities of risk in global supply chains and uncover strategies for fostering a proactive risk-aware culture.

Join me, Craig Goldberg, on Battleground Chats as I sit down with my long-time friend Michael Gladstone (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-h-gladstone), a seasoned expert in risk and resilience. In this episode, we explore Michael's fascinating journey from a public-school teacher in New York City to a crisis and resilience specialist for the US government and now in the crypto industry. Discover how Michael navigated the challenges of translating emergency management skills into the corporate world and why resilience is crucial in the digital landscape of cryptocurrency. We delve into real-world scenarios, including a timely exercise that mirrored an actual crisis, and discuss the importance of building goodwill and preparedness in any industry. Tune in to understand why resilience professionals are the unsung heroes in safeguarding businesses and how Michael's unique experiences shape his approach to crisis management.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I'm thrilled to welcome Kirsty Sullivan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsty-sullivan-0940487a/), a close friend and expert in risk and resilience. Join us as Kirsty shares her fascinating journey from the Royal Australian Navy to becoming a Chief Risk Officer. We delve into her experiences as one of the first female submariners and her transition into risk management across various sectors, including government and private health insurance. Kirsty emphasizes the importance of simplicity in risk management and the evolving role of technology and compliance in the field. We also explore the significance of personal resilience and the benefits of understanding one's capabilities in crisis situations. This engaging conversation offers valuable insights into the dynamic world of risk and resilience. Tune in for an enlightening discussion with Kirsty Sullivan.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Tom Garcia (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-garcia-1a677516/), a mechanical engineer turned financial services risk professional. We explore Tom's journey from working in a dairy and tyre factories to navigating the complexities of financial risk. Tom shares his unique perspective on how engineering principles, particularly risk assessment, apply to financial services. We delve into the importance of understanding risk, not just as a specialized field, but as an integral part of any industry. Tom also discusses the challenges of making risk management tangible in a digital world and the critical role of continuous learning and improvement. Join us for an insightful conversation that bridges the gap between engineering and finance.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, Craig sits down with his long-time friend and risk and resilience expert, Mark Cannadine (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-cannadine/), to explore his fascinating career journey. From his early days as a police officer in the UK to his diverse roles in Australia. Mark shares insights gained from working across government, health, and energy sectors. We delve into the evolving landscape of risk management, particularly the integration of risk and resilience, and the growing challenges of third-party cyber risks. Mark's experiences highlight the importance of adaptability and the need for tailored approaches in risk management. Join us for an engaging discussion that sheds light on the complexities and critical nature of risk and resilience in today's interconnected world.

In this episode of Battleground Chats, I sit down with Matthew Cheal (https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-cheal-4a46a127/) to explore his fascinating journey from working at McDonald's to leading risk and resilience efforts in the Human Services sector. Matthew shares his experiences transitioning to roles in aged care, human and disability services, ultimately landing at Australian Unity. We delve into the unique challenges and lessons learned in managing risk across diverse industries, particularly during unprecedented events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Tune in to hear Matthew's insights on the evolving landscape of business resilience and the critical importance of preparedness in ensuring continuous care and service delivery.