Garth Callender MBA GAICD
Book Garth Callender for speaking engagements & events.
Resilient Leadership Amidst Crisis
Garth Callender isn’t just an accomplished author, dynamic speaker, and influential leader; he embodies resilience and unwavering leadership in challenging circumstances. With over 25 years of dedicated service in the Australian Army, including commanding soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan, Garth possesses firsthand experience in managing extreme crises. His memoir, ‘After the Blast,’ published in 2015, chronicles his military deployments and remarkable recovery journey following an insurgent bomb attack in Baghdad in 2004.
What truly sets Garth apart is his recent book, “Best Possible Outcome.” In this powerful work, he draws compelling parallels between boardrooms and battlefields, underscoring the universal truth that leaders must make tough decisions. This book offers practical insights and a roadmap for success even in the most turbulent times, and it has earned accolades for its guidance in crisis planning and decision-making.
Garth’s impact extends beyond the military. Handpicked by the NSW Government, he led the states’ groundbreaking Veterans Employment Program, exceeding expectations by employing over 500 veterans, an astonishing 150% above targets, and achieving this milestone 18 months ahead of schedule.
In 2017, his expertise earned him a seat on the board of the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, appointed by the Minister for the Environment and Energy, Josh Frydenberg. <p>
Currently, as Managing Director at Trebuchet Pivot, Garth specialises in preparing corporate leadership teams to make informed decisions in adverse conditions. Collaborating with high-performing boards and executive teams across Australia, he equips them to navigate crises effectively.
Garth’s dedication to veterans and their families shines through in his role as Chairman of Bravery Trust, an organisation that provides vital financial support to injured veterans and their families.
Continuing to serve part-time in the military, he recently completed a 2-year tenure as the Commanding Officer of The University of NSW Regiment, directing the training of approximately 1100 junior leaders annually. Presently, as a visiting fellow and Leadership and Ethics lead for emerging senior leaders at the Australian War College, he shapes the next generation of senior Defence leaders.
Garth Callender’s journey is more than a narrative—it’s an inspiration. His insights into crisis management, strategic decision-making, and unwavering leadership are invaluable lessons for anyone seeking to navigate turbulent waters and emerge triumphant. Invite Garth to your speaking engagement, and let his experiences and wisdom illuminate your path to success.
Garth is an excellent presenter. He deftly took the audience through compelling stories while relating them to contemporary issues affecting our organisation.
Just brilliant mate!
Thank you so much.
Staff feedback was fantastic.
I had the pleasure of attending the AICD Fellow’s Roundtable Lunch where Garth shared his remarkable story. It was great to hear how Garth is now using that experience to advise boards on the importance of conducting a comprehensive risk assessment, where the worse-case scenario is considered and not ignored .
Garth was super impressive and whilst I have not been part of the Australian Defence Force, his stories, concepts & learnings were easily translatable to the commercial realities. His style and storey telling made it easy to stay 100% engaged.
We have had a huge amount of very positive feedback about Garth’s very powerful speech. He spoke with authority on leadership, resilience and what it takes to protect your people. I am certain his inspirational words had a significant impact on all those who attended.
Having seen Garth speak on several occasions, I have always found his perspectives highly relevant and translatable. He speaks frankly on leadership lessons that he has learnt from his vast experience, often in some of the most dire circumstances. The real-world examples he presents highlight what is needed to lead through adversity.