Di Foster’s Inspiring Safety Leadership Journey

From Entrepreneurial Roots to Executive Leadership

• Di Foster grew up immersed in her family’s manufacturing business, sparking an early passion for entrepreneurship.
• Earned a Bachelor of Commerce from Otago University.
• Gained experience across departments, including:
  • Production
  • Sales
  • Accounting
  • Asset Management
• Appointed Executive Officer within five years, driving the company’s strategic vision.

A Life-Altering Diagnosis and Resilience Through Adversity

At 31, Di was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, which led her to step back from her career. Five years later, she launched her own business, My Merino, but was faced with another diagnosis—terminal cancer with just 12 months to live. Against all odds, she made a remarkable recovery, inspiring her to help others unlock their safety leadership potential.

Founding Di Foster: Empowering Leaders in Safety

In 2017, Di launched Di Foster, a company dedicated to guiding executives toward peak performance in safety leadership. Her mission is to help leaders become self-aware, confident, and better connected. She has worked with notable organisations, including:

• Ray White Real Estate
• Advisory Board of Amiki
• Lightning Lab Tourism

Through her Executive Advisory Program, Di shares her unique insights on safety leadership, personal growth, and resilience at events across Australia and New Zealand.

Key Takeaways from the Podcast

1. Evolving Narrative: From Reflection to Impact

Di’s speaking journey began as a therapeutic outlet but grew into impactful opportunities to inspire others in safety leadership.

2. Insights on Self-Exploration and Leadership

Di highlights the importance of understanding personal barriers and emotional challenges. She emphasizes that self-awareness is critical to becoming a more effective leader in safety.

3. The Role of Ego in Safety Leadership

Di and Matt discuss how leaders can differentiate between actions driven by ego and those motivated by genuine care for others. The conversation sheds light on the impact of ego in workplace dynamics and safety leadership.

4. Overcoming Adversity for Growth

Di’s personal battle with cancer reshaped her perspective on life and leadership. She underscores the value of authenticity, vulnerability, and resilience as essential traits for both personal and professional growth in safety leadership.