Sarah Bailey on Leadership, Growth & Diversity in Defence

We’re pleased to share that our Group Executive Director and Australian CEO, Sarah Bailey, is featured on the Defence Connect Podcast this week, following her recognition as Female Defence Leader of the Year (SME) at the 2025 Australian Defence Industry Awards (ADIA).

In conversation with senior journalist Robert Dougherty, Sarah reflects on her leadership journey, the recent merger between Penten and Amiosec, and the opportunities ahead for PentenAmio and the broader defence sector.

Key themes from the episode include:

• Recognition & Impact: What the ADIA award means to Sarah and the PentenAmio team, and how it reflects the work we do across national security and secure mobility.
• Leadership in Transition: Insights into guiding a newly merged organisation, setting a clear vision, and empowering teams to contribute meaningfully.
• Authenticity & Accountability: Sarah’s leadership philosophy centres on role modelling, creating safe spaces for constructive dialogue, and fostering a culture of trust.
• Diversity & Inclusion: A candid discussion on gender diversity in leadership, and how PentenAmio is working to embed inclusion in all its forms—from gender and age to neurodiversity.
• Mentorship & Influence: Sarah shares how informal mentors have shaped her thinking, and her hope to inspire others through authentic leadership and continuous learning.
• Looking Ahead: With the merger complete, PentenAmio is poised for growth across Australia, the UK, North America, and Europe—driven by a commitment to solving complex problems for our customers.

“Leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about creating space for people to bring their best ideas forward.” – Sarah Bailey

Listen to the full episode here: