With a career spanning over four decades, Greg Clothier has cemented himself as a leader in the business management systems and ISO auditing landscape, particularly within Australia’s resource sector. As industries worldwide strive for excellence in quality, safety, and environmental management, Clothier has been at the forefront, driving innovation and ensuring that businesses adhere to the highest standards of operational integrity. His expertise, cultivated through years of experience across mining, manufacturing, health, and resource sectors, makes him an influential figure in the world of quality management and auditing. 

As the Director of IQMS Australasia, Greg’s career is marked by numerous milestones, from spearheading the first international ISO self-installation platform, WINSTON, to overseeing the installation of more than 100 certified management systems across Australasia. His deep knowledge of ISO standards (ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001) and his hands-on approach to consulting and auditing have allowed him to lead complex projects while fostering innovation in business processes. A respected leader and Chairman of Global Maintenance Upper Spencer Gulf (GMUSG) for over 12 years, Greg has not only influenced industry standards but also championed regional business growth through collaboration.  

Throughout his journey, Greg’s commitment to excellence, strategic development, and leading by example continues to shape the industries he serves, making him a vital figure in the evolution of business management systems in Australia and beyond. 

Scaling Hydraulic and Pneumatic Service Teams Across Australia 

Greg’s work in manufacturing and defense stands out due to the high level of technical complexity and stringent compliance requirements. His leadership in managing hydraulic and pneumatic flying squad service teams, which expanded to operate Australia-wide, showcases his ability to scale operations while maintaining top-tier service delivery. 

Another significant project under Greg’s leadership was the upgrade of the Port Augusta Playford power station, further cementing his expertise in handling large-scale industrial endeavors. In the defense sector, Greg’s experience is equally impressive. He provided ISO and IMS compliance services for BIC and participated in the frigate contract with Aerius Marine, reflecting his proficiency in navigating the intricate regulatory landscape. 

This diverse portfolio of experience has sharpened Greg’s ability to lead complex projects while upholding the highest compliance and safety standards. Central to his success was the skilled teams he managed, whose specialized knowledge and collaboration were crucial in meeting rigorous standards and delivering successful outcomes across both industries. 

Empowering SMEs on the Path to ISO Certification 

Winston is a groundbreaking software platform developed to transform how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) handle quality, safety, and environmental management systems. Specifically tailored to the unique needs of SMEs, Winston simplifies the complexities of ISO standards, offering an all-encompassing solution that enables these businesses to navigate the path to ISO certification efficiently and affordably. 

Recognizing the essential role that SMEs play in driving innovation, economic growth, and sustainability, IQMS understands the challenges these businesses face when implementing ISO management systems, such as limited resources, time constraints, and technical expertise. To address these hurdles, IQMS developed Winston to empower SMEs by providing them with a level playing field, helping them achieve ISO certification without overburdening their operations. 

Winston’s platform includes a wide range of features to assist SMEs at every stage of the ISO certification journey. From customizable templates and expert guidance to streamlined documentation and audit preparation tools, Winston removes much of the complexity from the certification process. This allows SMEs to focus on their core business activities while progressing toward certification. 

Whether pursuing certification for ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety), or all three, Winston equips SMEs with the tools they need to improve operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and showcase their commitment to quality, safety, and environmental sustainability. By using Winston, SMEs are better positioned to compete and succeed in today’s dynamic business environment. 

The Role of a Cohesive Team 

Successfully implementing and maintaining ISO standards involves several critical components, including thorough documentation, regular audits, and ongoing continuous improvement processes. As a certified auditor for eight ISO standards, Greg’s expertise in developing tailored documentation suites and conducting comprehensive audits in Quality, Safety, and Environmental management ensures that companies not only meet compliance but maintain it over time. 

Greg’s approach emphasizes the integration of standards into daily operations, fostering improved performance and heightened accountability throughout an organization. This method drives long-term benefits, creating a culture where adherence to ISO standards becomes second nature, not a separate task. 

Key to this process is having a strong, cohesive team. Greg believes that every team member plays a vital role in embedding these standards and contributing to continuous improvement, which strengthens the entire organization and secures its success in maintaining ISO compliance.

The Power of Networking 

Networking has been a cornerstone of Greg’s career, particularly during his tenure as Chairman of the GMUSG, where he expanded the organization’s membership from 36 to over 140 companies. GMUSG is The Global Maintenance -Upper Spence Gulf which is representative of  the South Australian Resources and Energy Sectors.  

For Greg, networking is more than simply meeting people; it’s about cultivating long-term, meaningful relationships that create mutual benefits. His ability to foster business-to-business connections has enabled him to collaborate, solve complex challenges, and access new markets throughout his career. 

In his role as Managing Director, Greg has experienced firsthand the value of a strong network of trusted partners. These relationships often unlock valuable resources, expertise, and insights that might otherwise be inaccessible. For instance, during the expansion of ISO management systems, he leveraged his network to gain insights into best practices, anticipate industry challenges, and access specialized skills that were not readily available in-house. 

Greg advises professionals to focus on being authentic when building industry connections. Attending industry events, conferences, and seminars is important, but engaging thoughtfully and showing genuine interest in others’ work is key to building rapport and credibility. Additionally, nurturing these relationships over time through consistent follow-up is crucial. Networking, both within and outside the organization, is built through effort and real engagement, not overnight.  

Greg also stresses the importance of internal networks, often overlooked but vital for operational success and fostering a collaborative culture. Building strong connections within one’s team and across departments is essential for ensuring smooth operations and a thriving workplace environment. 

Public speaking has been another key tool in Greg’s networking strategy. By sharing his expertise and offering insights in forums or seminars, he has not only enhanced his credibility but also expanded his professional reach, further solidifying his standing in both the manufacturing and defense industries. 

Navigating Complex Industries  

One of the most significant lessons Greg has learned over the course of his career is the importance of adaptability and continual learning. He has consistently embraced opportunities for professional development, which has enabled him to lead change and revitalize organizations. This mindset of growth has shaped his professional philosophy, which centers on strategic innovation, proactive problem-solving, and maintaining strong communication within teams. 

Greg’s leadership style is grounded in leading by example and perseverance, especially when navigating the complexities of industries like manufacturing and defense. His ability to remain resilient in the face of challenges has earned him respect and success in these demanding fields. He emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking and taking initiative to address potential problems before they escalate. 

A key part of Greg’s success has also been recognizing the value of having a dedicated and skilled team. He acknowledges that their support and collective strength have been pivotal in overcoming challenges and achieving organizational goals. For Greg, the combination of a clear vision, strong leadership, and a solid team has been fundamental to driving success and ensuring long-term growth. 

Team-Centric Success 

Greg describes his leadership style as dynamic and results-oriented, emphasizing leading by example and fostering a collaborative, innovative environment. His experience managing diverse teams across industries such as manufacturing, health, and defense has honed his ability to adapt his management strategies to the specific needs of each sector. 

Central to Greg’s leadership philosophy is the recognition that the team is the backbone of every project. His success has been driven by his ability to engage team members, build trust, and create an environment where they feel empowered. He consistently focuses on continuous improvement, encouraging open communication and innovation within his teams to ensure they can navigate even the most complex challenges. 

By providing guidance and creating a supportive atmosphere, Greg ensures that his teams are equipped to achieve results. His adaptability and commitment to fostering a positive, results-driven environment have been key to his leadership success across a variety of sectors. 

Streamlining Operations 

Greg balances his various roles by prioritizing strategic development and leveraging effective delegation. As he oversees IQMS Australasia’s custom platform development and manages multiple board memberships, strong organizational skills are essential to his success. 

To streamline operations and ensure focus on high-impact activities, Greg relies on systems such as ISO management systems and custom documentation suites. These systems help him maintain efficiency while driving progress across multiple projects. His hands-on management style and clear communication enable him to stay organized and ensure alignment across teams. 

A key element of Greg’s leadership is surrounding himself with capable team members who can be trusted with critical tasks. Their expertise allows him to concentrate on larger strategic goals, ensuring that projects are executed smoothly and objectives are met. Greg emphasizes that his team’s contributions are vital to staying organized and delivering consistent results. 

Leading the Way in Sustainability 

In recent years, Greg has observed how digital transformation is revolutionizing various industries, particularly in manufacturing, where automation and AI-driven processes are streamlining operations, reducing costs, and boosting productivity. This shift is equally visible in the domain of ISO management systems, where advanced technologies like cloud computing and artificial intelligence are helping businesses adapt more swiftly to evolving standards and regulatory frameworks. 

A key trend that has significantly impacted Greg’s work is the growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental compliance. As more industries adopt ISO 14001 for Environmental Management Systems, companies are increasingly required to consider not only their operational efficiency but also their environmental impact. This trend aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and achieve net-zero goals. Greg has worked closely with companies to ensure compliance with these standards while positioning them as leaders in environmental responsibility. 

To stay at the forefront of industry developments, Greg engages in continuous professional development through certifications, industry conferences, and seminars. He actively participates in professional networks and industry groups, keeping him informed of the latest trends and technologies. 

For Greg, innovation isn’t just about adopting new technology; it’s also about improving processes. For instance, he has integrated emerging trends such as information security (ISO 27001) and business continuity (ISO 22301) into various ISO management systems. These standards reflect increasing concerns over cybersecurity and the need for companies to be resilient in the face of unexpected challenges, like natural disasters or cyberattacks. 

Greg fosters a culture of continuous improvement and encourages his team to adopt a proactive approach to innovation. He believes in staying ahead by understanding how emerging trends can create competitive advantages and always seeks ways to enhance his organization’s offerings. 

A Career Advice 

Greg’s advice to aspiring professionals emphasizes several key areas critical to building a successful career across different industries: 

• Adaptability: Being able to transition between industries or roles is crucial. Greg highlights the importance of embracing uncertainty and being agile in the face of change. Industries evolve rapidly, and having the ability to pivot while staying focused on long-term goals is invaluable. Greg’s own career transitions—from manufacturing to health and defense—taught him that leadership principles remain consistent, but knowing how to adapt them to different environments is essential for success. 
• Leadership: Effective leadership goes beyond managing teams. Greg stresses the importance of inspiring and empowering others to perform at their best. Strong leaders know how to cultivate talent, delegate effectively, and foster an environment where innovation can thrive. Surrounding yourself with a strong, complementary team and leaning on their expertise when needed is a critical part of being an effective leader.

• Technical Skills and Certifications: Professionals should invest in learning industry standards and obtaining relevant certifications. For instance, becoming an ISO Lead Auditor can provide both technical and managerial expertise that applies across various industries, enhancing credibility and opening doors to new opportunities. Staying updated with emerging trends—such as automation, digital transformation, and sustainability—will make aspiring professionals more competitive in managerial roles. 
• Networking: Building strong relationships, both within and outside of an organization, is essential. Greg advises joining industry groups, attending conferences, and seeking out mentors who can offer guidance. A robust network not only provides opportunities but also helps professionals navigate challenges and stay informed about industry developments. 
• Continuous Learning: Greg believes that the most successful professionals are those who never stop evolving. Continuous professional development through courses, workshops, and staying curious is essential in today’s fast-changing industries. Leadership is not just about guiding others—it also requires investing in personal growth to be the best version of oneself. 

By focusing on adaptability, leadership, technical expertise, networking, and continuous learning, Greg encourages professionals to remain competitive, versatile, and prepared for the evolving challenges of their careers. 

To know more, please visit: http://www.iqms.com.au