))
Episode 9: Rohan McLellan – From Gold Medals to Global Pipelines
Manage episode 515825133 series 3695684
🧠 Top Quotes
“If I wouldn't do it personally, then I wouldn’t do it in the business.”
🎧 Episode Synopsis
In this compelling episode, Rohan McLellan, founder and CEO of Clover Pipelines, shares his remarkable journey from junior world champion cyclist to pioneering third-generation entrepreneur in Australia’s water infrastructure industry. With deep insight and humble candor, Rohan reflects on how the discipline of elite sport shaped his leadership philosophy and how he's built a business that delivers critical infrastructure across Australia and the Pacific. From ensuring clean water in Fiji to championing quality over cost, this episode delivers a masterclass in integrity, resilience, and purpose-driven business leadership.
⏱️ Episode Breakdown
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
Host sets the stage and introduces Rohan McLellan, highlighting his unique path from sport to infrastructure.
02:00 – From Junior World Champion to CEO
Rohan shares how athletic discipline shaped his strategic thinking, time management, and goal-setting as a business leader.
06:30 – Leadership Lessons from the Foundry
Early memories of working in his grandfather’s foundry taught Rohan hands-on business fundamentals and respect for frontline workers.
11:00 – Translating Race Day Preparation to Executive Strategy
How meticulous planning, timing, and patience from elite sport apply directly to managing operations, logistics, and growth at Clover Pipelines.
16:15 – Global Supply Chains & Quality Control
Rohan discusses sourcing infrastructure products globally (including from Turkey), and the non-negotiable importance of quality.
21:45 – The Mission: Delivering Clean Water
From suburban Australia to rural Fiji, Rohan details how Clover Pipelines impacts human lives through potable water access.
25:30 – The Cost of Losing Australian Manufacturing
Why younger generations struggle to grasp end-to-end product lifecycles—and how Clover combats that with immersive training.
30:15 – Building a Culture of Accountability
Rohan breaks down how caring, presence, and leading by example created a “we, not me” culture inside Clover Pipelines.
35:00 – Hiring, Financial Literacy & Storytelling
How Rohan evaluates new hires by asking them to “tell the story of the numbers”—and why interpretation beats spreadsheets.
38:40 – Product Innovation & Sustainability
From lining technology to circular economy pressures, Rohan explores how Clover Pipelines balances innovation with performance and safety.
43:00 – Multi-Generational Legacy & Vision
Rohan reflects on the legacy of his father and grandfather, and how he wants Clover Pipelines to be remembered: for credibility and contribution to Australia’s water future.
46:30 – Final Reflections & Gratitude
Closing thoughts on trust, growth, and the quiet leadership that fuels enduring businesses.
Thank you for listening to 'Slicing Through The Noise' the podcast that uncovers real stories behind impactful leadership in Australia and around the world.
Follow us:
10 episodes
Share
