Resilient leadership and strategic turnarounds

In this episode of Vistage LIVE, host Stephanie Christopher is joined by Ron Gauci—newly appointed Vistage Chair, accomplished CEO, and renowned transformation expert. With leadership experience across Telstra, IBM, Microsoft, Melbourne Storm, and Federation Square, Ron brings deep expertise in navigating complexity, driving change, and leading through both crisis and complacency.

Throughout the conversation, Ron shares insights from decades of turning around organisations facing adversity.

• Three-phase turnaround approach:
  Ron’s signature methodology—30 days of observation, 30 days of planning, and 30 days of execution—has been honed through years of experience. This model lets him understand an organisation’s unique dynamics before crafting a tailored strategy. It delivers quick traction while building long-term capability and team buy-in.
• Creating momentum:
  Whether in crisis or complacency, momentum is essential. Many businesses struggle not because of external threats but due to internal stagnation. To overcome this, Ron sometimes “manufactures a crisis” to instil urgency, energise leadership, and drive action. This proactive approach helps leaders respond before warning signs appear.
• The power of culture and mindset:
  Sustainable transformation starts from within. Ron emphasises that execution fails without clarity. Everyone must understand their role, responsibilities, and what success looks like. Drawing on lessons from elite sport, he champions a “never-settle” mindset that fuels continuous improvement and creates a culture where accountability and performance go hand in hand.
• Tough conversations, delivered well:
  Leadership is not about avoiding hard conversations—it’s about handling them with honesty and care. Ron builds trust through radical candour. Even when delivering tough news, such as letting someone go, his respectful, transparent approach earns admiration instead of resentment.
• Stories of impact:
  From restoring Melbourne Storm’s reputation post-crisis to reimagining Federation Square’s role in Melbourne’s cultural life, Ron shares examples of leading through disruption, driving innovation, and unlocking hidden potential. These stories show that great leadership transforms not just businesses, but people.

Now stepping into his role as a Vistage Chair, Ron is seeking growth-focused business leaders ready to stretch themselves—and support others—in a confidential, high-calibre peer group.