Jaqquline Lawrie, 10 October, 2024
Our life experiences shape us as individuals and as leaders. For Brodie Ellery, a QUT Graduate Certificate in Business (Enterprise Leadership) student, growing up in rural southeast Queensland laid the foundation for his desire to lead. Always saying yes to every opportunity—whether at school or on various sports teams—Brodie embraced every leadership role that came his way.
Beginning his career in the Heavy Plant and Transport Industry nearly 15 years ago, Brodie worked in both Local Government and the private sector before rising to the position of Fleet Manager at Ellerslie Free Range Farms. Located in the Darling Downs region of Queensland, Ellerslie Free Range Farms is a leading agribusiness that operates one of the largest poultry layer operations in Australia.
“As Fleet Manager at Ellerslie Free Range Farms, I oversee the repairs and maintenance of our large fleet, which includes light vehicles, trucks, trailers, plant, equipment, and generators”, he said.
“I also manage the purchasing and disposal of all plant and equipment, along with strategic planning for the management and operation of our fleet.”
With a significant amount of managerial experience under his belt, Brodie was motivated to take his career to the next level. Reflecting on this decision, he shared, “I was inspired to upskill and transition from managerial roles to leadership, as it has always been something I’ve enjoyed through school and various sporting teams.”
After discussing his career aspirations with Mark Lochore (General Manager of People and Culture), Brodie discovered an exciting professional development opportunity to take part in QUT’s Enterprise Leadership Program.
“I have always been committed to personal development, so when I had the chance to join QUT's Enterprise Leadership Program, I jumped at it,” he shared.
This program is a transformative pathway for motivated managers and aspiring senior leaders looking to advance their careers. Participants learn to develop the confidence, frameworks, and capabilities needed to thrive in complex environments and lead successful business outcomes.
Moreover, this program provides an ideal opportunity to enhance qualifications. Upon completing the two core modules—Leading Self and Others, and Actioning Strategic Innovation—along with any two elective modules, participants become eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Business (Enterprise Leadership).
Living over 200 km away from QUT’s Gardens Point campus, Brodie found the Enterprise Leadership Program to be flexible and accommodating to his career demands. The hybrid format allowed him to engage seamlessly in both in-person and online sessions.
“Balancing study with full-time work was manageable thanks to the after-hours sessions in the credential units—they made it easy to attend without affecting my day-to-day workload”, he said.
“While the assessments added some extra work, with proper management, it never felt overwhelming.”
Studying alongside four colleagues sponsored by Ellerslie Free Range Farms, Brodie has already experienced significant growth in his professional development. Reflecting on his progress, he shared, “Prior to enrolling in the Enterprise Leadership unit ‘Communication for Results,’ I recognised the need to enhance my communication skills.
“The course pinpointed the areas for improvement and provided practical tools for development,” he continued.
“The guidance and feedback from my Lecturer and Class Facilitator, Aubrey Warren, have been very helpful and will continue to support me in the next stage of my career.”
Brodie has also noticed the positive impact of the program on his workplace and team culture. He noted, “The Enterprise Leadership Program has provided me with additional tools and knowledge to enhance my team’s culture, even in challenging times.”
“It showed me how small improvements can make a big difference, and I believe that enhancing these small aspects will be very beneficial for me in the future,” he said.
Now, midway through the program and enjoying it immensely, Brodie has already set long-term career goals. Looking ahead, he shared, “My long-term goal is to complete an MBA at QUT, and this program is a great first step toward achieving that.”
“I’m also passionate about leadership and personal development, both for myself and for my team,” he added.
Ready to take your career to the next level?
Discover our Enterprise Leadership Program and find out how you can achieve a postgraduate qualification with a Graduate Certificate in Business (Enterprise Leadership) at QUT.
