43 [Grad Series] Why Grad Leaders Need a Seat at the Table | Natalie Gibbons from Westpac

In this episode of the VMJPod Graduate Recruitment Series, David Macciocca and Steven Nield sit down with Natalie Gibbons, Graduate Programs Manager at Westpac.

Natalie shares how she’s built influence and earned trust within one of Australia’s biggest banks, ultimately securing a seat at the table where real change happens. From transforming graduate experiences to shaping strategic workforce decisions, she walks us through what it takes to go beyond “just running the grad program.”

Whether you’re new to early careers or stepping into leadership, this episode is packed with insights on career growth, advocacy, and impact.

Key Topics:
02:15 – Natalie’s role and scope of Westpac’s national grad program
06:00 – Building trust and earning a seat at the table
10:10 – Why it’s important for grad leaders to own the full lifecycle
13:50 – Tailoring programs to meet both business and candidate needs
17:05 – Collaborating across departments to lift early careers visibility
21:40 – Advice for building internal credibility and buy-in
26:30 – Westpac’s shift toward future-skills-based hiring
30:00 – Supporting grads beyond onboarding: growth and retention
34:45 – Natalie’s take on the evolving role of grad leaders
37:10 – Final thoughts and advice for early talent professionals

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