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Gerard Francis
President
Professional Background
Gerard Francis is a seasoned executive with a remarkable career spanning various leadership positions in the infrastructure and real estate sectors. As the President of Willow, Gerard has demonstrated exceptional skills in strategic leadership, steering the organization towards innovative and sustainable solutions in infrastructure and real assets. His profound experience at Willow, where he has held multiple senior leadership roles including Global Head of Real Assets and Global Head of Infrastructure & CEO of WillowRail, showcases his ability to navigate complex projects and foster teamwork to achieve significant outcomes.
Before his tenure at Willow, Gerard served as the Managing Director and COO at Willow, where he was integral in optimizing operations and scaling the company’s capabilities. His leadership was instrumental in driving growth and establishing Willow as a leader in its field.
Gerard's extensive experience also includes notable positions at John Holland, a major player in the Australian construction industry. He served as the Rail Group Development Director, where he led project developments, and prior to that, he was the East Coast Manager for New Business, focusing on expanding the company's reach and project portfolio. His foundational role as New Business Manager at John Holland contributed to the strategic planning and execution of successful projects.
In addition to his work at John Holland, Gerard made a significant impact at Lend Lease as Head of Strategy, directly contributing to high-level strategic decisions that shaped the company's direction and success. Moreover, his career at Alstom Transport as Contract & Commercial Manager equipped him with vital skills in contract negotiation and commercial management, ensuring projects were delivered with efficiency and effectiveness.
Education and Achievements
Gerard's educational background is robust, having pursued a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with a focus on Accounting and Business/Management at the University of Wollongong, where he graduated with Honours. This solid foundation in commerce has played a pivotal role in his professional journey, allowing him to integrate financial acumen with strategic business insights.
In addition to his degree, Gerard furthered his expertise by studying for a CPA at the Australian Society of CPAs. This certification not only underscores his commitment to excellence in the accounting field but also enhances his qualifications and ability to make informed financial decisions within his roles.
Gerard’s blend of education and extensive leadership experience positions him uniquely to contribute significantly to the sectors he serves. His insights into infrastructure and real assets are backed by a thorough understanding of financial principles and business management, making him a sought-after leader and expert in his field.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Gerard has amassed a wealth of achievements that highlight his expertise and leadership skills. As President at Willow, he has driven initiatives that emphasize sustainability and innovation in infrastructure. His ability to lead teams through complex projects manifests in the successful delivery of services and products that align with modern environmental standards and community needs.
Under Gerard’s direction, Willow has not only thrived in its projects but also fostered a work culture that encourages creativity and collaboration. His advocacy for employee development and empowerment reflects his understanding that a company's success is intrinsically linked to the well-being and growth of its people.
Gerard’s earlier roles, particularly at John Holland and Lend Lease, also bear testament to his strategic foresight. His work has helped shape projects that are not only economically viable but also contribute positively to the communities they serve. Gerard’s commitment to identifying strategic opportunities has led to sustainable growth and increased operational efficiency in the organizations he has been a part of.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gerard Francis stands out as a dynamic leader with an unparalleled record in the infrastructure and real assets sectors. His blend of educational excellence, deep industry knowledge, and strategic leadership capabilities empowers him to drive meaningful change and contribute significantly to the organizations he works with. As he continues to lead at Willow, Gerard remains a vital figure in shaping the future of infrastructure through innovative and sustainable practices.
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