Event Speakers
Get ready to be inspired by our panel of experts in wellbeing science, leadership development, and organisational performance.
Together, they’ll share practical insights on how 360-degree feedback and evidence-based frameworks can help leaders grow, build thriving teams, and create workplaces where people feel connected, capable, and able to flourish.
AARON JARDEN – Associate Professor at Centre for Wellbeing Science, Melbourne University
Associate Professor Aaron Jarden from the Faculty of Education at the University of Melbourne is an academic, wellbeing consultant, social entrepreneur, has multiple qualifications in philosophy, computing, education, and psychology, and is a prolific author (130+ peer-reviewed publications) and presenter (170+ presentations). He has previously served as a Senior Research Fellow at Flinders University and as Head of Research at the Wellbeing and Resilience Centre at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI). He is the founder and past president of the New Zealand Association of Positive Psychology, co-founder and co-editor of the International Journal of Wellbeing, and lead investigator for the International Wellbeing Study, amongst others.
HAYDEN FRICKE – Managing Director at Steople
Hayden Fricke is a registered psychologist, executive coach, and leadership expert with over 20 years of experience helping leaders and teams unlock sustainable performance through culture and behavioural change. As a founding Director of Steople (www.steople.com.au), Hayden has led transformational work across sectors – from local government and professional services to mining, healthcare, and education.
Hayden specialises in developing leaders who are both results-driven and people-focused. He partners with organisations to improve leadership capability, build high-trust cultures, and address the real drivers of psychosocial risk and burnout. Known for his calm presence and practical wisdom, Hayden is a respected facilitator and keynote speaker on psychological safety, wellbeing, and emotionally intelligent leadership.
He is also the author of “Leaders, Do You Have Your Sh*t Together?”, a straight-talking, insightful book & workbook that challenges leaders to reflect deeply on their impact, values, and personal growth in the workplace.
Passionate about evidence-based practice, Hayden combines the science of human behaviour with a deep understanding of organisational systems, ensuring the changes he helps spark are not only effective but lasting.
TRACIE DEEGAN – Group Chief People Office at NIOA
Tracie has over 20 years of HR experience, together with a unique background in policing. Her specialist area of expertise is driving capability in business through individual, team, and organisational development, particularly in high-growth strategy environments. Tracie’s diverse HR experience spans across automotive, aviation, hospitality and now the Group CPO at NIOA Group. NIOA Group is a privately owned global munitions company supporting over 70 allied nation defence forces and law enforcement agencies…