In a world where the only constant is change, effective leadership becomes not just a skill, but a critical lifeline—especially during times of crisis. In the latest episode of our The Courage to Lead Interview Series, we sit down with Jamie Caldwell, Director of Energy Operations in New South Wales, for an insightful discussion on what it truly means to lead when the stakes are high.
Jamie Caldwell : From Technical Expertise to Human-Centered Leadership
Jamie Caldwell’s leadership journey is marked by a shift from technical prowess to human connection. While his background in energy operations is extensive, he stresses that leadership is less about knowing all the technical answers and more about fostering trust, communication, and confidence within a team.
Caldwell’s method of building trust is very similar to other guests of The Courage to Lead Interview Series including Andrew Colvin, Mark Stone and Michelle O’Keeffe. Trust is something that exists until it does not, and even then it can continue. A courageous way to lead.
“In emergency management, it’s not just about systems and protocols—it’s about people,” Caldwell notes. “At the end of the day, leaders and team members are fundamentally the same. We all want to be heard, valued, and supported.”
Leading Through Political and Sectoral Shifts
Jamie Caldwell offers a candid reflection on the challenges posed by an evolving political landscape and the ever-changing energy sector. As Director of Energy Operations, he is acutely aware of the balancing act between long-term policy goals and the community’s immediate needs.
Continuous learning, he argues, is non-negotiable. “Energy is no longer a static industry,” he says. “It’s dynamic, and that means leaders must stay adaptable and informed.”
Jamie Caldwell : Collaboration at Every Level
Effective leadership, Jamie Caldwell explains, means breaking out of silos. This includes working closely with local politicians, stakeholders, and community members to ensure energy remains both accessible and affordable. Jamie Caldwell emphasises the importance of relationship-building—not just within his team but across the broader ecosystem of energy management.
Cultivating Talent and Team Culture
One of the standout themes in the conversation is Jamie Caldwell’s approach to talent development and team morale. He talks about the importance of promoting team achievements and creating a workplace culture grounded in recognition and positivity.
“Personal connections—those one-on-one interactions—are what make people stay,” he shares. “That’s where trust begins, and trust is the foundation of any strong team.” This is a common theme in workplaces that are recognised as Great Places to Work. People feel valued and seen. Another guest on The Courage to Lead who did this exceptionally was Mark Coyne.
A Case Study in Crisis: The Broken Hill Incident
The episode culminates with a powerful real-world example: the severe storm and subsequent electricity outage in Broken Hill, New South Wales. Jamie Caldwell recounts the enormous task of coordinating a statewide response, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how leadership principles translate into action during emergencies.
From scenario planning and preparedness to making critical decisions under pressure, Caldwell paints a clear picture of what it takes to lead effectively when the unexpected strikes.
“The key,” he reflects, “is not to let the clock dictate your choices. You must be calm, informed, and ready—because people are counting on you.”
Jamie Caldwell – Key Takeaways:
- Leadership in crisis is more about people than processes.
- Adaptability and continuous learning are essential in fast-changing industries like energy.
- Trust, open communication, and human connection are the building blocks of resilient teams.
- Recognising team achievements and investing in one-on-one relationships strengthens workplace culture.
- Scenario planning and deliberate decision-making are crucial in emergency response.
Jamie Caldwell’s leadership journey is a masterclass in navigating complexity with clarity, empathy, and purpose. Tune in to the full episode to hear more from a leader who’s redefining what it means to lead in times of crisis.
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