Four new members join GHD's Australian leadership team

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Engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services company, GHD has announced the appointment of four new leaders for their Australian operations.

The four senior appointments include Jill Hannaford as Technical Services Leader, Australia; Sonia Adams as Market Development Leader, Australia; Sheldon Krahe as Western Australian Manager; and Craig Walkemeyer as Australian Market Leader – Energy and Resources.

GHD’s General Manager – Australia Phil Duthie comments that the firm’s focus has now turned to purposeful growth following years of maintaining and enhancing their position through the challenges in the Australian market.

He added that the newly appointed leaders will support their local teams in implementing the firm’s strategy and driving performance, empowering their people, and differentiating GHD as a leader in client service.

Technical Services Leader – Jill Hannaford

Jill will be responsible for enhancing collaboration and creating career pathways using the framework of GHD’s service line structure that brings together more than 75 different services, ranging from agriculture to water treatment.

A 23-year veteran at GHD, Jill was the driving force behind the company’s Stakeholder Engagement and Social Sustainability service. A pioneer in the field of community consultation and stakeholder engagement for infrastructure, and a founder of International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Australasia, Jill has also been an integral member of GHD’s leadership team for the Sydney region.

In 2015, Jill was recognised by her peers with a Champion of Change award from consulting industry association Consult Australia.

Market Development Leader – Sonia Adams

Charged with leading GHD’s growth strategies in Australia and positioning the company for nationally significant project opportunities, Sonia, in her previous role as Manager – Client Liaison in Sydney, was responsible for connecting with technical partners, and building relationships with clients and stakeholders for major projects, including the proposed Western Sydney Airport.

Sonia champions client relationship management and is committed to excellent client service. She is a past President of the Asia Pacific Professional Services Marketing Association.

Manager – Western Australia – Sheldon Krahe

Sheldon, who takes over from Craig Walkemeyer, brings a strong client focus to his new role, which is vital in the competitive Western Australian market. As Australian Market Leader – Property and Buildings, Sheldon played a key role in strengthening the firm’s client relationships in the sector and supporting the growth of their GHD Woodhead integrated design practice.

He has more than 25 years of professional experience across both the consulting industry and the Australian Defence Force.

Australian Market Leader – Energy and Resources – Craig Walkemeyer

Craig Walkemeyer will be responsible for growing GHD’s client relationships, technical capability, and industry partnerships in the power, mining, and oil and gas industries. As Manager for Western Australia, Craig has demonstrated leadership in capitalising on opportunities in challenging market conditions.

Craig has also led GHD’s Energy and Resources business in Western Australia, building on his extensive experience in senior executive roles with major resource companies including BHP and Alcoa.

Image: Clockwise from bottom left: Jill Hannaford, Sonia Adams, Sheldon Krahe and Craig Walkemeyer.