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Having joined Brisbane Airport Corporation just 7 months ago, Lauren has hit the ground running with the enormous task of creating communication strategies for projects across the airport precinct. Lauren has started at a very pivotal time in Brisbane Airport’s history, as teams right across BAC plan for the airport’s rapid growth into the 2030s and beyond.
It takes a lot of perseverance and determination to excel in the role of Communications Manager of Projects. After all, Lauren is a ‘one-man band’. It’s a fine art in working independently yet managing a tight schedule to collaborate with so many different project teams. Whether it is complete terminal transformations, retail space renovations or environmental projects, Lauren’s influencing and investigation skills are put to the test every day. Lauren uses her skillset to get the most up to date and accurate information to produce effective communications for stakeholders, employees, and contractors.
What has drawn you into working at Brisbane Airport?
I’ve had a long-term interest in working across infrastructure and the environmental management projects. So, when this opportunity came up, I was drawn to the idea of applying my experience to a position in the airports and aviation sector.
The thought of working across projects that will change the face of Brisbane Airport in the coming years is very exciting. This role satisfies my curiosity by providing immersion into the complex nature of a major airport.
What are you proud of achieving so far?
We recently established the Future BNE site so that BAC staff can receive timely updates on all the major projects taking shape across the precinct. Some of these projects are massive and will eventually touch every department and employee in some way. We could never successfully complete these projects alone; It takes cooperation at all levels and areas of the organisation. Because of this, it is incredibly important we bring our people along for the journey of each project.
I am also working very closely with our major development contractor to capture timelapse video footage of the Domestic Terminal Security Upgrade Project during construction. It’s very rewarding being able to source and develop such assets. I find it’s an excellent way to educate both employees and passengers on the sheer scale of what we are working on. In addition to all the complexities that need to be considered as these new facilities come to life.
Life Before Brisbane Airport
I am a born and bred Adelaidean, and because of my father’s work I was also given the opportunity to live abroad in the multicultural melting pot of Penang in Malaysia. It was fantastic being able to live in such a vibrant and colourful community where so many cultures, languages and cuisines converge in one place.
At university, I was one of the first to graduate with a Bachelor of Public Relations at University of South Australia. In the workforce, I was among the first to staff a public relations department for a major multinational waste management and environmental infrastructure company.
Waste management is a fascinating industry and just like aviation, there is never a dull moment. As much as these industries have in differences, they also have a lot in common. Both airports and waste management companies provide essential services to support businesses, trade and our way of life. Considering this, I believe my previous experience in waste management has somehow inspired my move to pursue a career in aviation.
What realisations or learnings have you had from working in Aviation / Airport environments?
Being someone who hasn’t worked in aviation before, it was a little daunting having to quickly learn about the unique dynamics of an airport environment.
The times I have been fortunate enough to go into behind-the-scenes areas have given me an entirely new perspective. One of the standout moments for me was when I visited the baggage makeup area at the International Terminal. The area can experience high temperatures and has very limited space with a sophisticated baggage handling system operating around the clock. To ensure there is no disruption to our passengers, we are taking on the painstaking task of building a brand-new baggage system around the current one as it continues to operate.
Seeing the inner workings of the terminal has completely shifted the way I think about airports. What you see in public areas as a passenger is actually very limited and doesn’t give you full appreciation of what’s required - the resources, infrastructure and personnel to make an airport run smoothly every day.
How do you envision the future of Brisbane Airport?
The projects I am currently working across will ensure Brisbane Airport retains its position an award-winning airport and provide much needed capacity and better connectivity. It is very exciting being part of planning for this growth and anticipating the communications requirements needed to keep our passengers, staff and stakeholders informed during our transformation.
I feel privileged to be a part of the team that is bringing these projects to life and being a part of a legacy that will benefit Queensland’s communities and economy for decades to come.