Ben Cannon

Graduate Management Trainee
Bachelor of Commerce

6:30 AM – Early Start at East Perth Plant

I start the day early at the East Perth Concrete Plant. First thing on the list is preparing and sending out the morning logistics email to all drivers and supply chain staff. I go through any unplanned changes, such as sick drivers or truck reshuffles, and liaise with the CSC (Customer Service Centre) to get a clear view of the day's operations. By 7:30 AM, the update is out and the team’s aligned.

7:30 AM – Solving Logistics Issues on the Fly

After the morning communication is sent, I shift into problem-solving mode. I work on a timing issue within logistics and look for ways to keep services efficient and trucks on the road with as little downtime as possible. It’s a bit of a puzzle — working with what you’ve got and making it stretch to meet the day's demand.

8:30 AM – Weekly Supply Chain Meeting

I join the weekly supply chain meeting, where each plant manager gives updates on performance and challenges. There’s also input from the head of transport and broader supply chain team. It’s a great insight into the bigger picture and how each site fits into the wider operation.

10:00 AM – Supporting Driver Admin & Airport Access

Mid-morning, I assist some of the drivers with completing applications for a job that requires airport clearance. It’s a task that involves some back and forth, but it’s rewarding to support them through the process and ensure the job stays on track

11:30 AM – Helping Out at the Plant (and Learning On the Side)

Even though it’s not part of my set tasks, I spend some time cleaning up and disposing of pallets around the plant yard. It’s a way to help out where I can, and I always make sure I’m wearing the correct PPE. These moments are great reminders that leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about action.

12:30 PM – Lunch, Learning, and Big Meals

I have lunch at my desk next to one of the plant managers. Since I’m currently bulking, I usually eat a couple of big meals and some fruit around lunchtime while I continue to work. During this time, I also reflect on how I can improve the structure and clarity of my morning emails.

1:30 PM – Graduate Catch-Up

In the afternoon, I jump on a virtual call with other graduates across the country. It’s a great way to share experiences, challenges, and wins, and to feel connected to others in the program, even if we’re spread across different states and sites.

3:00 PM – End of Day Reflection

There weren’t any major curveballs today, but I stay ready — this job can be volatile and fast-moving, and things can change in an instant. Productivity ebbs and flows, so I’ve learned to stay vigilant and adaptable. I worked with a range of people today — from the head of transport to the plant manager and drivers — and each interaction gives me more insight into how I want to lead in the future. Observing different management styles helps shape the kind of leader I aim to become.

Fergus Gregori

Production Manager

“The program helped me land a role that directly matched my career goals and pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect.
The rotations, travel and leadership exposure shaped my career in ways I hadn’t imagined. The MDP gave me the tools and the confidence to lead.”

Emily Grekos

Concrete Plant Manager, Port Melbourne

“ I was drawn to Heidelberg Materials because of its innovative culture and focus on growth through the MDP program. The MDP was amazing, letting me explore all parts of the business to find my passion while building my leadership skills and industry knowledge.
The company’s supportive environment has empowered me as a woman thriving in a male dominant field and has helped shape me into the leader I am today.”

Cody Jeffrey

Project Manager Quarry Operations

“ My time on the program has encouraged me to grow and learn in new ways with an incredible amount of support along the way.
I had the exciting opportunity to work and learn on the Coffs Harbour Bypass, one of the largest road projects in NSW at the time!”

Tylah Drochman

Completed MDP in 2016 and is now working as a Manager - Quarry Approvals

“ Being a graduate at PNQ (Pioneer North Queensland is part of the HMA Group of companies) I was never seen as a ‘trainee’ but as a valued member of the team. Over my time I developed a great network of mentors that I still regularly call on for guidance. My exposure to the whole business allowed me to gain a holistic experience of the construction materials industry and fostered a great passion for managing quarry operations”

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