March 2025

GHD’s Natalie Ambroso leads the charge

GHD’s Natalie Ambroso leads the charge

Fresh thinking in sustainability, innovation and diversity has earned GHD’s Natalie Ambroso the prestigious Future Leader Award at the 2025 Consult Australia Awards.

As Defence Leader for GHD’s Victoria and Tasmania regions, Natalie has overseen remarkable growth, with GHD’s regional Defence sector revenue doubling in the past two years.


Natalie combines client-centricity, business acumen and a deep understanding of industry challenges.

 
Raised in the town of Drillham, a rural town with fewer than 150 residents in Queensland’s Darling Downs, Natalie’s career journey reflects resilience and passion. 


Growing up on a farm, Natalie cultivated a systems-thinking mindset that has been the foundation of her 17-year career as a chartered professional engineer.


Natalie’s leadership in sustainability is particularly impressive. She spearheaded the creation of a dedicated built environment sustainability team within GHD’s Victorian Building Engineering division. She also sponsored the implementation of “Sustain,” a best-practice guide that integrates sustainability from concept through to construction.


“The judges were particularly impressed with Natalie’s steady, driving force in promoting the integration of sustainability into design,” says Consult Australia Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Cartledge. 


“Natalie’s work empowers GHD teams to provide earlier and more comprehensive advice to clients on sustainable development opportunities, whole-of-life benefits and capital expenditure budgeting.”
Beyond her technical expertise, Natalie is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion. She has mentored more than 20 emerging leaders. During her tenure as Building Engineering leader in Victoria, Natalie achieved a 45/55 gender split in her team – well above industry norms.


By shaping inclusive workplaces, championing sustainability and mentoring the next generation, Natalie is redefining the consulting and engineering landscape for years to come.

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GHD’s Natalie Ambroso leads the charge