63. How to Lead Through Mergers, Change & Corporate Challenges with Alison Sherry

Building Doors with Lauren Karan

In this episode of The Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Alison Sherry, a powerhouse leader known for her expertise in mergers, acquisitions, leadership resilience, and Indigenous advocacy.

With a career spanning executive roles, large-scale corporate transformations, and community impact, Alison shares insights on navigating uncertain times, building resilient teams, and fostering psychological safety in leadership.

From the complexities of merging companies to the personal growth that comes from career transitions, Alison’s wisdom is invaluable for leaders, professionals, and anyone navigating change in their career or organization.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Leadership in Times of Change:

• Why VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) is the new normal—and how to thrive in it.
• The role of self-awareness in leadership and how it impacts decision-making.
• Why psychological safety is critical in organizations going through transformation.

Mergers, Acquisitions & Corporate Transitions:

• The biggest lessons from leading through the Ranbury & RP Infrastructure merger.
• How to retain employees and keep culture strong through corporate change.
• The importance of communication—why you can’t over-communicate in times of uncertainty.

Career Resilience & Adaptability:

• Why career agility is key in today’s workforce—and how to build it.
• Why being made redundant isn’t a career-ending event—but a growth opportunity.
• How to navigate job transitions without losing confidence.

The Power of Contribution & Giving Back:

• Alison’s work with Indigenous employment programs and its impact.
• Her volunteer leadership with the RSPCA and supporting women in leadership.
• Why mentoring and advocacy are essential for shaping future leaders.

About Our Guest

Alison Sherry is a highly regarded corporate leader with experience in mergers & acquisitions, executive leadership, and cultural transformation. She has played a pivotal role in major organizational integrations, leading teams through uncertainty and ensuring seamless transitions.

Alison’s passion for leadership extends beyond the corporate world—she’s a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal for her advocacy work in Indigenous employment and volunteering with RSPCA Queensland. She is also an active mentor supporting female leaders and elite athletes as they transition into corporate careers.

Her leadership philosophy? Integrity above all else.

Key Quotes from Alison Sherry

• “If you can’t survive in uncertainty, volatility, complexity, and ambiguity, corporate life isn’t for you.”
• “People don’t leave companies—they leave cultures. Leadership is about creating environments where people want to stay.”
• “Communication in times of change should feel like over-communication—because there will always be people still searching for clarity.”
• “Integrity is everything. Once trust is gone, it’s almost impossible to get back.”

About Your Host

Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is a recruiter and development coach passionate about helping professionals unlock their potential. Through this podcast, Lauren shares real stories and actionable insights to empower listeners to create opportunities in their careers.

How You Can Support the Podcast:

✅ Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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Don’t Miss Out

• Listen to previous episodes here.
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