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Anthony Ward
Executive Leader - Board Advisor - Strategy & Growth - Aboriginal NfP Director & Business Advisor
Professional Background
Anthony Ward is a highly respected leader with a career marked by an unwavering focus on strategic management, business development, and transformational change. His extensive experience spans several high-profile sectors, including media, telecommunications, aviation, logistics, property, construction, and infrastructure. Anthony's career exemplifies an effective fusion of strategic advisory roles and in-house leadership, demonstrating his ability to drive initiatives that lead to successful outcomes for teams and organizations alike.
From launching Air Asia into the Australian market to transforming Telstra from a telecommunications provider to a media communications powerhouse, Anthony's career highlights showcase his strategic foresight and executional expertise. He has taken on a variety of projects that have required leading large, multi-disciplinary teams from concept through delivery, all while collaborating closely with Boards and Senior Leadership Teams. His passion for continuous improvement is driven by self-awareness and a genuine desire to motivate and empower others, enabling them to work towards common objectives.
Education and Achievements
Anthony Ward's educational journey is highlighted by his studies at the prestigious Harvard Business School, which equipped him with the strategic mindset and analytical skills required for effective leadership in today's dynamic business environment. This solid educational foundation has proven invaluable as Anthony has taken on numerous significant roles throughout his career.
His career is dotted with notable achievements, including:
- Launching Air Asia in Australia: Anthony played a pivotal role in the successful market entry of this low-cost airline, demonstrating his prowess in strategic market positioning and operational execution.
- Transforming Telstra: He was instrumental in developing the board strategy that transformed Telstra from a conventional telco into a comprehensive media communications entity.
- Preparing a Major Private Logistics Business for IPO: His strategic development efforts and leadership in the commercial and corporate functions of this business illustrate his capability in scaling organizations for public market readiness.
- Capital Fundraising: Anthony has successfully raised capital for several large private companies, showcasing his excellence in business growth strategies and financial acumen.
Skills and Expertise
Anthony is recognized for his strong leadership, influencing, and negotiation skills. He is an effective communicator, proficient in simplifying complex issues for easier understanding by all stakeholders. His acute financial, commercial, risk, and legal acumen pairs perfectly with his demonstrated experience in program and profit & loss (P&L) management.
By combining vision and strategy with passion and diligent work, Anthony underscores his commitment to delivering successful outcomes that align with strategic objectives. His leadership style is centered on empathy and building rapport, making him a sought-after leader in teams across various sectors.
In addition to his vast professional background, Anthony has served in numerous key positions that underscore his deep expertise in strategic management and leadership within diverse organizations. Some of his significant roles include:
- COO at The Dreaming Food Group: In this current role, Anthony oversees operations while maintaining a strategic focus on growth and innovation.
- Co-Founder & Director at The Dreaming Foundation: Here, he champions initiatives that aim to make a broader social impact.
- Strategic Advisor roles: He has worked with a multitude of companies including Hudson Pacific Food Service and Omni Bridgeway, where he played a crucial role in guiding corporate strategies and growth initiatives.
- Project Management at John Holland: Anthony's experience as Integration Manager and Project Development Manager has solidified his reputation for transforming strategic visions into tangible results.
- Non-Executive Director Roles: His involvement with various organizations such as Digital Glue and Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association showcases his ability to contribute to governance and strategic advisory across sectors.
Anthony Ward’s career is a testament to his dedication to excellence, his commitment to continuous improvement, and his passion for developing others in the pursuit of shared success. With an impressive portfolio of achievements and a wealth of experience, he remains an influential figure in any organization he is part of, dedicated to fostering environments where innovation and collaboration thrive.
