Join Danny Cairns and his esteemed panel for a sequel to the riveting discussion on toxic leadership. “Leadership Reimagined” delves deeper into transforming leadership cultures, focusing on fostering environments of transparency, inclusivity, and empowerment. This session is a call to action for leaders everywhere to reflect, innovate, and inspire a positive change in their organizations. Whether you’re an emerging leader or a seasoned executive, prepare for an enlightening exploration of redefining leadership for a brighter future.
Panel Chair: Danny Cairns, RN
I’m Danny Cairns, a Royal Navy Air Traffic Control Officer and advocate for diverse leadership within Defence. Whilst Air Traffic is my trade, my role today is much more centred around people, their career development, and their personal growth. From Barbados to Guam, I’ve been very lucky to have supported a variety of communities around the world, each of them imprinting a small part of their culture on my day-to-day outlook. In June 23, I had the honour of being selected to be the Co-Chair of the Royal Navy’s LGBTQ+ Network; a role that I’m very proud to have held. Everyone has a gender identity and sexual orientation that deserves to be represented, supported and of course, celebrated. It’s my goal to create conversation, showcase people’s talents and support the change we wish to see in Defence. Be the stage for people to be heard, don’t be the microphone and use their voice.
Panellists:
Adam Versteeg – Jane’s; Chief people officer
Adam is a business focused HR leader with a track record of leading people and delivering change in complex organisations. He has a diverse background having started his career in the military, before spending time in a unique public sector environment and then in a large consulting practice working with clients in a range of sectors, before moving back in-house to an international media, publishing and research business.
Libby Vallance-Bull – British Army; AI and Technical Strategy Advisory
Libby is currently AI and Technical Strategy Advisor for the British Army, bringing a wealth of expertise in leveraging technology to enhance defence and security. Currently also serving as an Honorary Fellow at the Centre for Public Understanding of Defence and Security, University of Exeter, she also advises Women Empowering Defence. Her previous roles include Associate Director for Partnerships at Helsing, focusing on AI for democracies, and a position in digital solutions at Rebellion Defense. Libby’s diverse background highlights her dedication to integrating innovative solutions within the military and beyond.
Tony Simpson – Sodexo; Director of UK Custodial Operations
Tony Simpson is a seasoned leader with over 3 decades of experience in managing prisons and working with clients in the Ministry of Justice and His Majesty’s Prison Services in England and Scotland. Throughout his career, Tony has navigated and excelled in complex and challenging environments. In his current role, as Justice Operations Director for Sodexo, he oversees full operational and contractual delivery of seven prisons across the UK. This demanding role involves leading a team of 3,000 employees and supporting over 7,000 prisoners in high and medium security prisons, working in partnership with His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) and the Scottish Prison Service (SPS).
Lynne Austin – General Dynamics: Director of International Facilities and UK Operations
Currently serving as the Director of International Facilities and UK Operations at General Dynamics Mission Systems International Limited, brings over six years of leadership experience within the organisation. With a robust background in overseeing manufacturing, supply chain, IT, cyber & physical security, quality, facilities, and health and safety functions for the UK business, Lynne has demonstrated exceptional skill in strategic partnerships, stakeholder engagement, and operational excellence. Her career also includes significant roles at Nationwide Building Society and Lloyds Banking Group, where she led key strategic third-party relationships and managed comprehensive support services. Lynne’s expertise in navigating complex operational landscapes and her commitment to excellence make her a valuable panellist for discussions on ‘Identifying and Rectifying Toxic Leadership’.
