Authenticity in Leadership Means a Strong Sense of Purpose with a Spotlight on the Common Good: Eva Wood’s Story

Each month in 2023, we’re focusing on one of the 10 essentials we all need for success in these fast-changing times. This month, we’re highlighting Authenticity, which is an awareness of yourself and your personal values, and a willingness to acknowledge your vulnerability, express you don’t know the answers and identify areas of growth.

Authenticity is fundamental as you prepare for annual performance conversations in the workplace. This month, we talked with Brisbane-based Eva Wood about her experience with authenticity on her career journey.

What year did you join Jacobs?

I joined Jacobs in 2015 as a director of operations.

Tell us a bit about your journey.

I get great joy from not being the smartest person in the room but being able to see a way to bring that “smart potential” to our clients, our business and the wider industry. I have always been good at problem solving – so combined with a technical craft and a love of people, I have found a space where I can lead diverse teams of people.

How did you evolve to where you are?

I’m not great at taking orders or being preached to, so I’ve always gravitated to places that are collaborative, have a strong sense of purpose and where I’m able to contribute to “the why” answers.

Inspiration for me as I have gotten older is not being the loudest person or the smoothest. Instead, I’m someone who can rally a team to produce outcomes by setting a vision and executing on it. In the past I might have been dazzled by the shiny leader but now I respect those who have a strong sense of purpose and focus on the common good.

What are the important tools you’ve used?

I reached out for help at one point in my career when I felt stuck. Sometimes, I still find it hard to ask for advice because of the fear of looking weak or not in control of my destiny. But this good advice had led me to take more control of my career path and recognize that I thrive in environments where I feel valued, listened to and can contribute to the careers of others. 

What’s the highlight of your journey so far?

Looking outside of what I thought our industry was and being challenged to look at client relationships differently, thinking globally and having an impact globally. I expect a lot from myself and others – being in a leadership role is a great gift and one that must be approached with a sense of service to lift up others and leave an enduring legacy.

What tips do you have for others?

• The world is full of potential, but it requires dedication, hard work, and focus to bring it to the fore.
• Make sure you know your craft, hone your teamwork and get joy out of your career.
• On that note, think about a career rather than a job. A career offers you support and stability along with the ability to contribute – so embrace the challenge.