“I always ask myself; how would this sound if I were on the other side of the desk"

Asher Ryall’s leadership journey began in southern WA, where he entered the workforce at just 15. His early career started with an apprenticeship in the timber industry, but it wasn’t long before he and his high school sweetheart married and he moved north, chasing new opportunities in the mining sector.

Reflecting on that shift, Asher says, “You can’t make moves like that unless someone sees your potential and gives you a shot.”

For Asher, values have been the foundation of his success. “I’m all about being honest and operating with integrity,” he explains. “It might sound simple, but I always ask myself; how would this sound if I were on the other side of the desk?”

It’s a mindset that’s served him well. “I lead with loyalty and strive to collaborate with my team. The times I’ve struggled have been when I’ve drifted away from those values.”

Leading with Perspective

Asher’s first official step into leadership came in a Continuous Improvement (CI) role, an experience that helped shape his big-picture approach.

“That role gave me a helicopter view. I was focused on improving operations strategically, not just tactically. Since then, I’ve tried to bring that lens to everything I do.”

However, moving from strategy into people leadership was an education in itself.

“Leading from the front builds humility. It’s easy to sit back and analyse, but when you’re working with real people, real personalities, it’s very different.”

His key learning from that transition was respect for those around him. “I developed a deep appreciation for the operators, the men and women doing the work every day. That respect changes how you lead.”

The Role of a Leader in a Dynamic World

Over the years, Asher’s leadership responsibilities have expanded to broader organisational change, and he’s developed a clearer view of what strong leadership looks like in uncertain times.

“The world is extremely dynamic, it’s quite turbulent and the most important aspect of a leader’s role is providing clarity and a measure of certainty in what is an extremely uncertain environment. By setting clear goals and maintaining performance standards, it becomes a stabilising force for the business. The goals don’t change, but the tactics and approach might.”

According to Asher, strategy shouldn’t be a top-down decree.

“There’s always a rationale behind new strategies. It’s your job to communicate that clearly and involve your team meaningfully. They’re not just passengers.”

For Asher, real buy-in comes through collaboration, not command. “You can push through change from the top, but it’s more effective, and faster, when people are part of the process. Share the ‘why’. People are very invested in their work, and they’re more engaged when they understand the purpose behind what they’re doing.”

A Broader View: Lessons from the Signature Leadership Program

In pursuit of fresh perspective and broader impact, Asher applied for the Signature Leadership Program and his participation in the Program in 2024 expanded both his thinking and his network.

“After 23 years in the resources industry, my professional circle had narrowed to be very industry specific. I wanted to widen my perspective and understand the broader challenges facing WA outside my own sector.”

The Program delivered on that aim.

“I met like-minded leaders from healthcare, government, education, the for-purpose sector, you name it. These were people I’d never cross paths within my day-to-day role.”

One of his biggest takeaways was the collective potential of senior leaders to make a social impact.

“I probably hadn’t given enough thought to the role that individuals and organisations can play in the community. Now I see that leadership isn’t just about business—it’s about contribution. Since completing the Program, I’ve seen my cohort give back in meaningful ways, and it’s inspired me and my team to do the same.”

Resiliency is key

For Asher, resilience is the glue that holds great leadership together.

“There will be setbacks, external pressures, internal disappointments. You’ll have wins and losses. The key is bouncing back. That resilience builds trust and confidence in your leadership.”

What fuels his own resilience is a strong sense of purpose.

“You need to know your ‘why’. For me, it’s taking care of my family and living a rich life with them. Professionally, it’s about developing people. Helping others grow their careers puts fuel in my tank.”

He takes pride in promoting from within and watching his team succeed.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to help someone get their start and then see them thrive. I remember how it felt to be in their shoes—that excitement of getting a shot. Now, I get to be the one offering that chance.”

Paying It Forward

Asher’s leadership story is a reminder of the power of potential—both in recognising it and nurturing it. His leadership legacy is not just about operational excellence, but about values, vision, and building others up.

“I was lucky that someone saw something in me and gave me that opportunity. Now, I sit on the other side of the table, proud to do the same. And I never forget what it was like to be the one hoping for that chance.”

It’s a message for every leader: stay grounded, lead with integrity, and never underestimate the impact you can have on others.

You can reach out to Asher on LinkedIn.