Meet Jane Richardson, one of our Top 50 Public Sector Women

As Director of Transport Integration at Sydney Metro, Jane leads a team of transport planners and is responsible for ensuring Sydney Metro projects are integrated into the broader transport network, and customers have easy connections between modes. 

We spoke to Jane about being recognised in the Top 50 Public Sector Women list, what she enjoys most about working for transport and her advice for other women looking to progress their careers.

What excites you most about working for Transport and the Public Sector?

Firstly, it feels great to be part of a team where the values are lived and breathed every day. I love playing an integrating role in such a large and complex organisation. I love being part of a team that works collaboratively to reduce barriers for our customers. I get a thrill out of watching the progressive delivery of Sydney Metro, particularly in the North West, where such a mass transit solution is well overdue. I also love seeing the 3D model animations, time lapse videos and ever more impressive drone fly-bys for the project as we head towards opening day. 

What is your biggest career highlight to date?

Other than the spectacular Sydney Metro journey we are currently on, it would have to be being part of the rail timetable team.

What advice do you have for other women who are looking to progress their careers at Transport?

Keep an eye out for opportunities that interest you, even if you’re not sure you are ready for them.  Give every opportunity a go – if it turns out you don’t love it, don’t do it again, but if it energises you, keep going.  I learned early on that you can lead from any level of the organisation, and you don’t need any direct reports to be influential.

How do you ensure you keep a good a good work/life balance?

I see it more like work/life integration. I don’t take work home or work on the weekend and I always have the next two holidays planned in advance to look forward to.

I have a very supportive husband who works in another part of Transport and I prioritise my health with regular Pilates sessions and remedial massages. I thrive best by being kind to myself and others, by collaborating and avoid turning things into a completion.

What does this recognition mean to you? 

It’s really flattering to be congratulated on the recognition. It was thrill to have been nominated and those that know me, know I wouldn’t have nominated myself!

Tell us a fun fact that people may not know about you? 

I am both a ‘cellist and a flautist. I used to play piccolo solos with the NSW Railway Band, but I am equally content being in the background, keeping the beat together.