Written and published by Emma Pei-Yin and Erin Wen Ai Chew ( Founders of the SHE LEADS series)

When you meet Lauren Hassall, CEO of AOC (Association of Old Crows) Australia, one of the first things you notice is her strong sense of determination. She’s not someone who backs down once she sets her mind on something. She’s not quiet; she’s confident and direct, shaped by years of experience in the demanding fields of defence, space, and electronic warfare.

“I have always been interested in emerging technologies, which led to studying Science and Engineering at uni. I then started working in defence and found a particular interest in space, communications, electronic warfare and information warfare more broadly. Over the years, I have taken on leadership positions that have allowed me to drive innovation and strategic projects in these fields“, Hassall shared with Emma Pei-Yin of She Leads/Being Asian Australian.

Hassall’s journey began with a deep interest in emerging technologies, leading her to study Science and Engineering.

“I’ve always been drawn to the cutting-edge,” she reflected.

This curiosity led her to the defence sector, where she found a particular passion for space, communications, electronic warfare, and information warfare. Over the years, she transitioned into leadership roles, where she could drive innovation and strategic projects within these fields. However, the path was not without its challenges. The classified nature of many projects also makes it difficult to showcase the work.

“It’s hard to take photos in front of the electromagnetic spectrum,” she said, half-jokingly, as she explained the difficulties in attracting young talent to this field.

“Innovation in the Australian ecosystem for defence is hard—many technologies get better traction overseas.”

Her leadership philosophy is built on surrounding herself with good people and giving them the benefit of the doubt. More importantly, Hassall is a firm believer in diversity and inclusion but stated that as a leader she is more focused on transparency in recruitment and promotion processes.

“To foster greater diversity and inclusion, it is essential to implement policies that support equitable opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background“, Hassall expressed.

“Controversially, while I love mentorship programs, diversity training etc. I think organisations should prioritise transparency in their recruitment and promotion processes to ensure fairness and inclusivity”.

As CEO of AOC Australia, Hassall faces the constant challenge of balancing her professional commitments with her personal life. Despite loving what she does, she is a firm believer in prioritising and not over promising . This is the way to attain that work/life balance and not work yourself to the bone.

“I’m very passionate about all the organisations I’m a part of, and I’m passionate about the projects I work in. However sometimes it can be challenging to manage my time between my family, my commitments, and my personal health”, she passionately expressed.

“I’ve learnt to prioritise and manage expectations and/or be okay with disappointing others as long as you’re doing you’re best, to build social credit with the people around you who will pitch in when you need them, and to never take feedback personally – learn from it and move on.”

Hassall shared some words of wisdom on what leadership means for her and how her upbringing has guided her into her career. For all the leaders out there ( from all different sectors) here is a strong message to take on.

“There is nothing more powerful than showing other people they have your confidence and support – this includes the times they need to learn lessons for themselves! Don’t be a gatekeeper – if people have sought you to mentor them don’t disappoint them by holding back”.

As she continues to navigate her career, she remains focused on creating opportunities for others, promoting diversity, and ensuring that her leadership leaves a lasting impact—not just on her industry, but on the next generation of leaders.

“If I can impact my kids to be proud of me, I’d be so fulfilled,” she said, encapsulating the heart of her leadership journey.

SHE LEADS is a newly branded series which aims at uplifting and empowering Asian Australian women in business, creative and other different sectors.