Rob Knott is Chairman of GHD, a leading global professional services company with 9000 people around the world and revenues of $1.7 billion.
He was appointed as Chairman in March 2017, after leading the company’s operations in Asia-Pacific.
Rob began his career in Brisbane and has more than 30 years’ experience in the design and project management of major infrastructure and property projects.
Rob was recently recognized by Engineers Australia as an Honorary Fellow.
What is your current job/role title and function?
As Chairman of GHD, I work with my fellow directors to shape the strategic direction and growth of a great and enduring company.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy the cultural stimulation of a global, multi-discipline organization and love seeing how communities of people are empowered through understanding, inclusion and connection. I am always surprised what we are able to create and achieve when we bring difference together. We have a balanced board membership, and have set a goal to ensure women make up 40 percent of our workforce.
What’s a part of your job people might not expect?
Not everyone knows that GHD is 100 percent owned by its employees. It takes some particular care and understanding to play the long game of intergenerational development and ownership. I spend a lot of time talking about culture and how our business model empowers all our people to grow their careers with confidence.
You were recently recognized as an Honorary Fellow of Engineers Australia. Why is this significant to you?
It is humbling to be recognised in this way by Engineers Australia. While I feel that my personal contribution is only a small piece of the larger impact that GHD is making across the globe, we are all motivated by creating a legacy for communities in which we operate.
We often talk within GHD about “creating lasting community benefit” and I’m privileged to be part of a great group of people who deliver successful projects, innovate and share knowledge and enjoy being together.
If the whole world was listening, what would you say?
Some ancient wisdom – it’s better to give than receive, and the greatest leaders are the best servants.
You’re stranded on a desert island. What three things would you like to have with you?
It wouldn’t take a lot of imagination to have a solar panel, an electric fry pan and my iPad with an infinite array of reading and music. That way I have the energy to sustain myself indefinitely, distill water and sustain food for the body and soul.
What is the most recent book you read?
I am part way through “Connectography” by Parag Khanna. It’s a fascinating view of a connected world without borders as we currently see them.
What is your favourite quote?
“The best way to predict the future is to create it” Peter Drucker
What is your ideal holiday destination?
Anywhere with water in solid or liquid form. I’ve spent some time in South America and love the south of Chile.
What is the greatest piece of technology released in the last decade?
Adaptive cruise control. It’s why I believe driverless vehicles will be widely embraced and save thousands of lives.