SYSTRA Joins NAWIC

We are pleased to announce that we have partnered with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).

From May this year, we will be members of NAWIC, an Australian association striving to champion and empower women in the construction and related industries to reach their full potential. It is NAWIC’s primary goal to empower women in construction, and their allies, from all walks of life, cultures, ages and career stages to foster a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

NAWIC welcomes SYSTRA as an Organisational Member and looks forward to their engagement across the NAWIC community.

Messy Munoz, Membership Coordinator

Joining NAWIC is an important milestone for our business as we strive to achieve gender parity not only within our organisation but across our industry.

Through our partnership, we are providing our people access to incredible networking opportunities, professional development, mentorship and the chance to be part of the change we all want to see.”

Dave Cahilap, Director – Learning & Talent Development, SYSTRA

Our partnership adds to our long running history of advocacy for a more gender balanced industry.

Earlier this year at the Work180 awards, we took home the top award in two of the four categories we were nominated for including Equitable Workplace Award and the Overall Engineering & Construction Industry Award. This comes after we were recognised by Work180 in the Herald Sun as Australia’s 7th top Employer for Women.

In late 2025, we also reaffirmed our long-standing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) by becoming one of the early signatories of the Australasian Railway Association (ARA)’s Rail Gender Equity Charter. 

For more information on how we’re committed to pursuing a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture, please click here.

We are pleased to welcome Peter Neal to our ANZ team as Director – Telecommunications, based in Sydney. 

Peter brings to the business a unique skillset that spans engineering, product and market growth across ANZ and Asia Pacific. He has led complex telecommunications programs, scaled an energytech startup, and has consistently demonstrated expertise in turning innovation into client benefit and measurable productivity outcomes.

Peter’s appointment aligns with our strategic focus on becoming the Systems Integrator of choice across Australia and New Zealand. Through Peter and other key hires within our Telecommunications and Systems team more broadly, we’re investing so that we are there for our clients where it matters. We’re designing, integrating and delivering solutions that lift productivity, improve safety and uplift customer experiences throughout the lifecycle of a project.

Tom Warner, Executive General Manager – Systems, SYSTRA ANZ

Peter joins SYSTRA at a time when Australia is leading the way for the global adoption of Future Radio Mobile Communication System (FRMCS). Positioned at the forefront of this new standard for the rail industry, Peter will focus on business development and delivery support across the east coast, translating what can be a complex transition into clear strategies that help clients navigate this once in a generation shift. 

It’s an exciting time to join SYSTRA. I’m looking forward to partnering with clients, providing them with our signature expertise and turning complex technology into practical outcomes. For our clients and the community, that means improved safety,  a more resilient network, and a clear pathway to an improved passenger experience. 

Peter Neal

Peter’s appointment comes after SYSTRA recently announced its partnership with Sydney Trains to partner in delivering the NEXTGEN Digital Train Radio System.  

For more information on our expertise in telecommunications and FRMCS, please click here. 

Vi is a Signalling Project Engineer in our Systems team in Sydney and aspires to grow into a people-oriented leader.

I am thrilled to be part of the Future Leaders Program and to receive formal recognition and training aligned with where I want to develop. I am looking forward to the opportunity to build new skills and expand my network with likeminded peers and the senior executives who champion the program.

Vi Dinh – Future Leader

We are delighted that Vi’s application was accepted and excited to see her continued development. Investing in our next generation is essential to our success and to achieving our vision as the signature team for infrastructure.

Paul Furniss, Director – Signalling & Train Control East at SYSTRA and sponsor of Vi’s application

With five years in the industry, Vi is a passionate advocate for rail signalling and systems engineering. “I love solving the unique and challenging problems that signalling presents,” she said. “Projects succeed when people come together. The problems we tackle are bespoke and complex, so no one can know everything. Through the leadership skills I will develop in the Future Leaders Program, combined with real‑world experience, I want to be the person who brings teams of experts together to help clients solve the most complex issues. It’s challenging—and exciting.”

About the ARA Future Leaders Program

The ARA 2026 Future Leaders Program is an exclusive leadership initiative that equips emerging leaders with the concepts, tools, networks, and self awareness needed for effective leadership. The comprehensive program is grounded in contemporary leadership best practice and offers a unique opportunity for the professional and personal development of rail professionals who are expected to shape the industry over the coming decades.

Relocating from Germany, Hendrik brings nearly 30 years of hands-on experience. He’s led major upgrades for railway communication across Europe including German DB GSM-R upgrade, Dutch NS Reizigers GSM-R fleet upgrade and more recently in Israel as well. He has also played a key role in shaping the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) through his work with the International Union of Railways (UIC), the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) and the Unitel Committe of UNIFE between 2013-2025.

“Hendrik is a strategic hire for our business as we look to further enhance our capabilities within the rail telecommunications sector. With FRMCS set to replace incumbent Global System for Mobile Communication – Railway (GSM-R) networks over the coming years, our clients will require a team with deep expertise in both technologies and system integration.

“Hendrik’s proven experience further enhances our ambition to become the industries system integrator of choice. He offers a unique point of difference and one that will be incredibly valuable to our team and our clients.”

Jason Powell, Director – Rail Systems East Division

“I’m thrilled to join SYSTRA, a company recognised globally for its leadership in rail systems. Having helped other networks through similar transitions, I’m looking forward to bringing that experience to the Australian market.

“It’s an exciting time to be part of an industry on the cusp of major transformation.”

Hendrik Holz

Hendrik is also a passionate advocate for rail telecommunications, regularly sharing insights at industry events and international conferences.

His appointment further enhances our capabilities in rail telecommunications, GSMR and FRMCS.

For more information on our expertise in rail telecommunications, please click here.

With nearly two decades experience working with the client, vendor and contractor on numerous high-profile infrastructure and transportation projects, Jon brings to the business diverse and deep expertise in Telecommunications for railways. 

“We are excited to have Jon join our team. He will bolster our Telecommunications expertise, offering our clients extensive support across the full lifecycle of the project.”  

Tom Warner, Executive General Manager – Rail Systems, SYSTRA

As new technologies continue to transform global railways, Jon’s experience will be vital in navigating this period of change. 

“In his role, Jon will bridge the gap between engineering and project management to guide our clients through their telecommunications journey—providing clarity, insight, and dependable support.”, says Tom.  

He adds “As operators look to incorporate FRMCS into their networks, Jon’s expertise ensures SYSTRA is the lifecycle partner of choice for all telecommunications projects.” 

With both formal qualifications and industry certifications in Telecommunications and Network Engineering, Jon is passionate about infrastructure of national significance, and more specifically rail’s increasingly important role in the mix of sustainable mass transportation solutions. 

“Rail telecommunications impact how efficiently railways operate, and how sustainably communities and even countries connect. As the sector becomes increasingly digitalised and more progressive, there will be many exciting opportunities for further engineering and technological innovation.”

“Being part of a team renowned for its rail systems and integration expertise is incredibly exciting. I look forward to working with many new partners and clients to bring their projects to life while also collaborating with colleagues in Australia and around the world to position us as the Signature Team for systems and infrastructure solutions.” 

Jon Stubing, Technical Director – Systems – SYSTRA

To learn more about Jon Stubing, please connect with him on LinkedIn or reach out via email.

The PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leaders is made up of passionate young transport professionals​ that plan and implement initiatives and activities ​to bring together their peers ​to advance their skills and support their role in the public transport industry. 

A graduate within our Infrastructure Engineering team in Sydney, Matt is passionate about delivering innovative solutions in public transport – particularly through his work in tunnelling.  

“I got into engineering so that I could play a part in helping to connect cities. Only in my second year in the industry, I have so much to learn and by getting involved with the PTAANZ and the Emerging Mobility Leaders committee, I will be able to better engage with others, understand more about what they do, and become a more well-rounded engineer as a result.” 

Matt continues SYSTRA’s proud history of involvement within the Emerging Mobility Leaders committee with Benjamin Voss also having been involved.   

“I’m looking forward collaborating with the other emerging professionals and championing a sustainable public transport future in ANZ,” says Matt. 

As tunnelling becomes an increasingly vital part of how we shape our cities—particularly in delivering faster, more efficient rail—Matt’s experience and perspective with the emerging leaders committee will be instrumental.  

We’re proud to have young professionals like Matt improving our industry through new ways of thinking. 

Based out of our Sydney office, Maud returns having previously worked for SYSTRA from 2009 through to 2019 which included a relocation from Paris to Sydney in 2014.

“We are thrilled to welcome Maud back to our business,” says Rob Scarbro, Director – Systems, SYSTRA. He adds, “Maud will play a crucial role in helping us strengthen our position as the Systems Integrator of choice across the Australian and New Zealand markets.

“She will offer our existing clients outstanding technical expertise where she specialises in rail operations planning, with a particular emphasis on operational modelling. She will also play a key role in helping us win work and grow our team.”

At a time when significant upgrades to our rail network are set to be rolled out as well as major investment in High-Speed Rail, Maud’s expertise in complex rail systems including the integration of ETCS and CBTC will be crucial to helping our clients navigate what will be a unique period of change.

“There is so much opportunity ahead for the ANZ market with the rail system in both regions undergoing significant change,” says Maud.

She adds, “Operational Planning will be important to the success of these projects in that we will be working closely with our Integration team to ensure the systems and technologies achieve their desired objectives. I’m excited to be back, working closely with our clients across the full lifecycle of projects to ensure interoperable networks are achieved.”

Within the Operational Modelling space, Maud believes that with these exciting projects in the pipeline, there is a lot of room for us to push the boundaries of innovation, using data and technology to achieve safety and productivity benefits across the industry.

She says, “I’m looking forward to being at the forefront of that change, upholding our core values of bold leadership, excellence and connected teams to make this period of change one of great benefit to our clients and the community.”  

To find out more about Maud’s experience and expertise, please click here.

Alexis is a key hire for our STS team as we look to expand our cybersecurity capabilities, strengthening our expertise in Governance, Risk and Assurance.

We are thrilled to have Alexis join our team. At a time when the cybersecurity space is deepening in its importance, Alexis adds vital leadership and a specialty skillset.

These skills will be particularly beneficial for our clients as they look to comply with the Security of Critical Infrastructure (SOCI) Act – a federal government initiative to improve the preparedness and resilience of critical infrastructure assets in Australia.

Michelle Bedson, Director – Program Service Delivery – Federal

As our subject matter expert, Alexis will provide clients with the knowledge and skills they need to ensure they are set up for success.

Alexis is an accomplished project management professional with 15 plus years’ experience spanning multiple government departments, IT, education, and engineering consultancies. With her main focus in achieving cyberworthiness for systems and capabilities, Alexis attributes a unique blend of technical expertise, problem solving, and client service to her success in her field of expertise.

In 2022, Alexis completed a Lead Auditor ISO 27001 certification and has also completed a Graduate Certificate of Cybersecurity. Alexis will be based in our Melbourne office.

To learn more about our capabilities in in cybersecurity please click here.

It is a day that provides us all a chance to remember, reflect and acknowledge those who have served for our country and in particular the contributions of those in our team who are returned service personnel. We are privileged to have so many within our team who have sacrificed so much.

We are also incredibly honored to collaborate directly with clients in the defense industry, where our collective efforts serve to enhance communities across Australia and New Zealand.

For Trevor Garnett, Director – Program Service Delivery in our Security and Technology Solutions team, ANZAC Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by his family in both World Wars.

“For me, ANZAC Day is a chance to remember and acknowledge those who have served to protect our freedoms and way of life. To celebrate their courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice.

“In particular, I remember the service of my Dad in the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) during WWII where he served as a pilot with Bomber Command and Special Operations Command.

“He was a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross military medal. During times of service, he flew four engine bombers on various missions and conducted supply drops and agent insertion. It took an enormous amount of courage and would often see his aircraft coming home with Flak damage. I can only imagine what must have gone through the crews’ minds during such flight’s night after night. ANZAC Day provides an opportunity to reflect and give thanks.”

Our Commitment to Supporting Veterans and their Families

SYSTRA ANZ is proud to be a Pledge Partner of Soldier On Australia. Soldier On is a not-for-profit organisation delivering holistic support services that enable current and former Australian Defence Force personnel, and their families, to lead meaningful civilian lives. Only last month, the SYSTRA ANZ raised over $9,000 as part of Soldier On’s March On initiative with all funds going directly to the services helping to prevent veteran suicide.

You can help us support March On by clicking here.

In addition to our support for Soldier On, all of our ADF reservist employees have access to leave to undertake service.

With over 20 years’ experience, Franck joins the business with deep expertise in financial leadership, management, and analysis. He brings transferrable knowledge in defence, cybersecurity, transport, and infrastructure projects with a demonstrated ability to deliver sound business strategy coupled with financial and operational success.

“We are lucky that we found Franck to support our business gear up for the next iteration in our growth and transformation. It was the perfect fit, with Franck bringing the desired corporate skills and big business background that we needed and an even happier coincidence to find he was a French national. Franck will be responsible for implementing new systems to set us up for long-term success and further expansions via acquisitions.”

Alana Newbrook, Chief Executive Officer, SYSTRA ANZ

Joining SYSTRA ANZ after nearly two decades with Thales, Franck’s expertise and understanding of project management, funds management, corporate finance, operations, and public contract negotiations will help the team grow whilst managing our productivity and delivering the best outcomes to clients.

“I’m excited to join a company that has such lofty ambitions. While we are quite young in Australia, we have had great success locally and bring a global reputation as the signature team for mobility projects.

I look forward to working with Alana, the Leadership Team and the finance group to ensure we hit our key targets and dominate the mass transit and rail market here, like we do abroad.”

Franck Leriche, Chief Financial Officer, SYSTRA ANZ

Originally from Paris, Franck has lived in Australia since 2004. He holds a Bachelors and Master’s degree in Management, Entrepreneurship, Finance & Strategy, and recently graduated from AICD. Franck is based in our head office in Sydney at Level 15, Chifley Tower Sydney.

Hit below to learn more about Franck.

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