Jenny Draper How Jenny forged her own path to create the best legal and governance career she never imagined
For so many people, joining PBPL means an unexpectedly rewarding career. Just ask Jenny Draper. As Executive General Manager Governance, Jenny has made an incredible impact on our organisation, relishing the opportunity to shape her role and grow the team.
THE FOUNDATIONS OF A SUCCESSFUL CAREER
Ask Jenny Draper to describe herself, and she’ll probably say “experienced” or “diligent.” But ask the people around her, and they’ll say she’s so much more: talented, curious, passionate and supportive. Our Executive General Manager Governance is an incredibly valued member of our Executive Leadership team. Since joining the Port in 2019, she’s stepped up to the challenges and taken the initiative to make this role her own.
With over 20 years of experience, Jenny is an accomplished Legal and Governance professional with a wealth of knowledge — but that’s not the whole reason she’s kicking goals at Port of Brisbane. From the early days — discovering her love for the legal profession during a summer internship, to gaining valuable multi-disciplinary experience in top tier law firms in Australia and UK and launching a successful in-house legal career in Europe — it’s clear she’s determined to take advantage of opportunities and doesn’t shy away from a challenge.
“My first in-house role in London involved building an in-house legal and company secretarial function for the European branch of Multiplex Development.
Establishing and developing the in-house function was a fantastic growth experience for me as a young professional working with seasoned developers and executives. I went through a lot of positive changes with that business. As the business grew and evolved, I found myself working with amazing people all over the world and branched into different sectors. It might say I spent eight years in one place on my CV, but that doesn’t reflect the opportunities I grabbed hold of and the development I experienced as a result.”
BREADTH OF OPERATIONS AND A PROUD TEAM
Having developed her career over several years across multiple continents, Jenny was ready for a new and exciting challenge. When becoming aware of the opportunity to be the first General Counsel and Company Secretary at the Port, Jenny knew it was the right move and the right time. She recognised the significance of the Port to the Queensland economy and the breadth and diversity of work the team are involved in. Jenny was eager to dive in head-first, develop the new role and add strategic value to the Port.
Four and half years on, Jenny reflects that she’s indeed found the diversity of work she was looking for, and there’s still so much that keeps the role interesting. Having cemented herself as a trusted advisor across the business, she finds herself advising on a wide range of legal areas —from marine, property, infrastructure, tax, corporate, contract or employment law, or getting up to speed with the ever-expanding changes to regulations such as the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act. In addition, the governance team has expanded to include health and safety, risk, quality and compliance. It’s safe to say no two days are the same!
As part of our Executive Leadership team, Jenny plays a key role in contributing to setting the strategic direction of the Port, and that’s something she’s thoroughly enjoyed.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of the team developing strategic programs from the outset, and then having the opportunity to help drive those initiatives”. With a passion for ESG, it’s no surprise that Jenny relishes the opportunity to roll up her sleeves and drive governance, risk and compliance forward.
Establishing a close-knit and supportive team environment is important at the Port, but our external relationships are just as essential. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service through building strong connections that benefit everyone. Jenny recalls one of her first experiences with customers and stakeholders at an annual function.
“Throughout the evening, every single customer and stakeholder I spoke with praised the Port for their commitment to their customers and the community. It was evident that PBPL fosters strong relationships with stakeholders, and it was clear just how much they appreciate us in return. It’s a very positive environment.”
BUILDING A CAREER WITH THE PORT
Jenny's contribution to our Port community has been significant, and the positive impact on our business is undeniable.
“We’re excited to bring in a Legal Counsel to join the team. This role offers so much opportunity to truly influence the future of this organisation. They will be involved right across the business, from reporting to the Board on significant and strategic matters to dealing with operational issues on the ground and anything in between. A career at the Port offers genuine opportunities to stretch your wings.
“Our new Legal Counsel will have their work cut out for them, jumping in to support the business across a diverse range of matters. This is a great opportunity for someone who thrives on variety and builds strong relationships with key stakeholders right across a range of functions. No two days will be the same, that’s for sure!”
Jenny has a strong interest in developing people. Anyone joining her team will benefit from being part of a close-knit team sharing knowledge and ideas — but they’ll also have the drive and determination to work autonomously and take ownership of their role.
Jenny tells anyone interested in building a career with the Port of Brisbane to the Port of Brisbane get involved, ask questions, and talk to our people.
“A get-up-and-go attitude and the desire to be truly involved in the team are essential. In return, you’ll be supported by a wonderful group of people who genuinely value you and your contribution.”
Are you interested in exploring the possibilities of a Port career? Find the right fit for you by visiting our careers page today.