A decade with UGL: navigating Defence, contracts and security

During his 10 years at UGL, Robert Bryce has worked as a quality manager for Defence projects and acted as an employee wellbeing advocate. He is now the Defence Health, Safety, Environment & Quality Manager and navigates the complexities of working as a security officer for Defence projects.

Tell us about your UGL journey

“I have been with UGL for 10 years. I began my role as a quality manager for our Defence business, to assist with the hydrographic ships for the Navy.

“In 2014 I was part of the team that secured UGL’s contract for the asset management program for the Royal Australian Navy’s Landing Helicopter Dock and Landing Craft vessels. This contract looked after 12 landing craft for five years.

“Around the same time, in Henderson WA, we undertook maintenance work on the ANZAC Class Frigates and an upgrade project to the ammunition lift control system fitted to the vessels. I used to get over there on a regular basis to see our technical team and support the joint venture.

“I have been the security officer for UGL since 2016. My role is to support the security management and onboarding for Defence projects. For the landing craft contract, I completed the Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) membership for UGL to set up the accreditation. I help to coordinate security clearances up to a certain level. We have more than 200 people with clearances and I have processed about 140 applications in the past six months.

“My role is challenging but incredibly rewarding. The Defence projects have been a real high point in my career as the UGL team delivers great work.”

“Rob puts his heart and soul into UGL’s Defence business, and we are all grateful for his dedication to the team”, Terry Nichols, UGL General Manager Defence.

Tell me more about your wellbeing contribution to the UGL team

“At UGL, supporting our employees’ wellbeing is very important. In 2019, I helped launch the Benny Button program designed to empower our employees to nurture a productive and thriving work-life dynamic. It has been rolled out to 600 people so far, and we have had some wonderful feedback on it.”

What is a unique thing about you?

“I am a boat builder by trade. I did an apprenticeship as a shipwright and then I moved into the design office designing high speed aluminum ferries. I spent a decade in the UK working on the introduction of large high-speed ferries to Europe. I have Chartered Engineer accreditation in the UK and I am a member of the Royal Institute of Naval Architects and the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology.

“As part of my continuing professional development, I have also completed a course with the Institute of Executive Coaching and Leadership to gain competency as a coach.”

In your role, have you been a mentor to others?

“My greatest joy is helping other people bloom in their job, because that’s what life is all about.”