Client Success Story
Paul Gibbs, CSM
From Army WO1 to Logistics Company Executive
“In going through the process, Ironside coached me regularly, in person and over the phone, to be fully prepared for the interview series.”
– Paul Gibbs, CSM
Exploring New Horizons
In 2015, facing pivotal life decisions, Paul Gibbs, a seasoned Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) in the Australian Army, embarked on a journey to transition from military service to the civilian workforce. Amidst this transition, Paul stumbled upon an advertisement on Ironside’s Facebook page, seeking individuals interested in a role with an international shipping company as their operations manager. This opportunity immediately piqued Paul’s interest for two main reasons – he perceived the role as the civilian equivalent of a workshop OC & ASM combined, and he harboured a desire for his career trajectory to continue upwards, eschewing stagnation.
Navigating Transition Challenges
With this newfound opportunity on the horizon, Paul grappled with the task of translating his extensive military expertise into civilian terms while assessing his career options and market value. Transitioning from the structured environment of the military to the dynamic civilian landscape posed its challenges, requiring Paul to articulate his skills and experiences in a manner appealing to prospective employers. Despite the daunting nature of the transition, Paul remained resolute in his pursuit of new opportunities, leveraging his unwavering commitment to excellence as a guiding beacon amidst the uncertainty.
A Strategic Partnership
Recognising the importance of mentorship and strategic guidance, Paul forged a partnership with Glen Ferrarotto, co-founder of Ironside Resources. Together, they embarked on a journey to refine Paul’s resume, hone his interview skills, and maximise his potential in the civilian job market. Empowered by Glen’s mentorship and the resources provided by Ironside, Paul began a transformative journey of self-discovery and professional growth, ultimately realising his full potential in the civilian workforce.
Rising to the Challenge
During his five-year tenure at Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics (WWL), Paul seamlessly integrated his military leadership skills into the corporate landscape, ascending from State Operations Manager to the coveted role of National Operations Manager. Drawing on his extensive military background, Paul navigated the complexities of the corporate world with strategic acumen, driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of success within the organisation.
Paul’s transformative journey underscored the invaluable role of military training in leadership development, as he adeptly translated military principles into actionable strategies. His strategic mindset, coupled with a deep-rooted commitment to excellence, propelled him to the forefront of the organisation, earning him widespread recognition for his contributions to operational efficiency and team empowerment.
Beyond Boundaries
Paul’s journey exemplifies the value of military veterans in corporate landscapes. With strategic guidance and determination, he not only secured fulfilling roles but also founded his consultancy, Australian Industry Ready, and assumed a senior executive position at DSV, a global freight forwarding company. His story underscores the untapped potential within the veteran community and the importance of recognising one’s worth in civilian endeavours.
