Celebrating the Next Generation of Hire Industry Leaders

Back L:R: Jack Cavanagh Smith, Margie Haseltine (chair), Olivier Chapman, Peter Lancken, Emily Stijland, Stuart Dean (CEO)
Front L:R: Seona Hartseil, Chloe Tough, Corina Roat, Prue Kennard, Andy Kennard

HIRE25 in Melbourne wasn’t just a showcase of cutting-edge equipment and innovation—it was a celebration of the people driving the hire industry forward. For Kennards Hire, it marked a proud moment as two exceptional team members, Corina Roat and Jack Smith-Cavanagh, were recognised for their outstanding development through the HRIA Women in Hire and Young Professionals Development Programs.

These prestigious initiatives, led by the Hire and Rental Industry Association (HRIA), are designed to support emerging leaders, enhance diversity, and equip professionals with the tools to thrive in an evolving industry.

Empowering Women to Lead

The Women in Hire Development Program continues to reshape the industry landscape by providing mentorship and development opportunities for women across the sector. Corina Roat, Marketing Specialist – Sponsorships & Local Area Marketing, described the experience as “so much more than I expected.”

“Each session gave us tools to achieve our goals - from confidence-building to financial advice,” she said. “We heard from inspiring leaders like Brenda Denbesten and Manelle Merhi.”

A standout moment for Corina was presenting at the Be Daring workshop in NSW, which helped her overcome her fear of public speaking. Her efforts were rewarded with the Women in Hire Growth Award for NSW—a career-defining achievement.

Watch Corina’s HRIA interview here

Fellow Kennards Hire participants Chloe Tough, Emily Stijland, and Seona Hartseil also shared how the program deepened their confidence, provided valuable tools, and fostered a sense of solidarity among women in hire.

Nurturing Tomorrow’s Leaders

The Young Professionals Development Program is built to accelerate growth among emerging talent. For Jack Smith-Cavanagh, Assistant Branch Manager in Port Adelaide and recipient of the SA Growth Award, the program was “invaluable.”

“Being mentored by industry veterans gave me insights I’ll carry throughout my career,” he said. “From exploring the business side of hire to forming new friendships—it was a truly transformative experience.”

Jack described attending HIRE25 as the perfect way to bring those lessons to life. “Seeing the scale of our industry, exploring new products, and hearing from inspiring speakers like Jessica Watson really drove home how far we can go.”

Olivier Chapman, Business Development Manager – KMP, added, “It equips young professionals to think, connect, and lead better. I’m proud to be backed by Kennards Hire - it shows that leadership is grown, not hired.”

Shaping the ‘Future of Hire’

Kennards Hire was also proud to sponsor the ‘Future of Hire’ panel discussion at HIRE25, offering valuable perspectives on emerging technologies and sustainability. David Schurman, General Manager Fleet at Kennards Hire, joined leaders from Aggreko and CPB Contractors to discuss innovations in fleet technology; pathways to net zero emissions; navigating regulatory change; and the role of AI in enhancing productivity. This future-focused conversation highlighted how Kennards Hire is leading change and helping customers prepare for what’s next.

Programs like Women in Hire and Young Professionals don’t just nurture individual careers - they help build a stronger, more connected industry. They reflect our belief that our people are the future of hire and that with the right support and team, With Kennards Hire You Can.