An experienced Military Leader with nearly four decades of strategic, operational and policy experience, including over 15 years’ experience in senior executive roles in Australia and overseas. Lieutenant General Susan Coyle gained her leadership expertise managing diverse teams, in complex and demanding environments.
An authentic leader who loves to motivate people across culturally diverse teams, Susan has a reputation as a modern People First leader, who embodies organisational values, and builds and maintains an extensive international network. She is the first woman to command two warfighting domains – Space and Cyber – and is proud to be serving her nation.
What do you think we can do to further women’s leadership in Australia today?
Our women leaders need to be able to see role models. I am a firm believer in the phrase ‘you can’t be what you can’t see.’ There are amazing women every day demonstrating what is possible. We just need to showcase their successes, and failures and learn from one another.
What is one piece of advice you wished you received earlier in your career?
The best advice I have received is to be your authentic self. Earlier in my career, I tried to blend, to be one of the boys. I know now that I just needed to be me. I have a strong People First focus in my leadership style. I like to care for our people, and their families. I bring my best self to work every day, with the aim to make a difference and leave it better than we found it.
What is one key leadership trait that will be essential in the next decade and why
Being an authentic leader. If you don’t back up your words with genuine actions, you will not create a positive environment where people will want to work together. For example, if there is a say / do gap between what you espouse, and how you handle issues, it can be detrimental to the team.
How do you stay resilient and motivated during difficult times?
Bad days will happen, it is what you do the next day that counts. You need to surround yourself with a positive and wonderful tribe, and own your mistakes. Tomorrow will be brighter.
