In graduate recruitment, trust and visibility aren't built overnight. In Episode 43 of the VMJPod Graduate Recruitment Series, Natalie Gibbons, Graduate Programs Manager at Westpac, shares how she’s progressed from program coordinator to strategic leader, earning a seat at the table by owning the entire graduate journey.
With nearly 140 grads welcomed into 18 national programs each year, Natalie opens up about the systems, relationships, and mindset shifts that helped her turn a high-volume program into a respected, business-aligned function.
For early talent professionals looking to increase their influence, Natalie’s story offers a clear view of what it really takes to lead, not just manage.
Natalie makes it clear that leadership in early careers goes well beyond recruitment.
“Everyone in early careers knows a grad manager essentially runs the show when it comes to all elements of the grad program… brand, attraction, onboarding, learning and development, and everything in between.”
By taking accountability for the full lifecycle, she’s positioned herself as a partner to the business, not just a process owner.
“You do need to, given that you do have a seat at the table — you do need to take the responsibility of all those facets of grad recruitment.”
Westpac’s graduate program attracts a significant number of applicants, which brings both complexity and visibility.
“If I talk about our 2025 cohort, we brought in just under 140 grads this year… we’re looking at upwards of about 7,000 applications.”
Natalie sees this as a chance to show the value of early careers to senior stakeholders and to drive conversations about workforce strategy, not just entry-level hiring.
Natalie moved into her current role after several years working within the program. That transition came with its own learning curve.
“I was very fortunate to have an amazing leader. As she went off to her next opportunity, I was lucky enough to step in — but that imposter syndrome is real. It’s natural for anyone stepping in.”
Rather than letting doubt take over, she focused on becoming a go-to resource for her team and stakeholders.
“You want to be that person where they go, ‘You know what, Nat knows her stuff.’ I went to her yesterday and she gave me what I needed. That’s how you build that trust.”
Earning a seat at the table didn’t happen by chance. Natalie had to invest in building her internal network and speaking up when it counted.
“You’re going to have to work at it. And unfortunately, if you’re not prepared to do that — to build trust, to stay visible — you’re not going to get that seat at the table.”
Her advice to others in early careers? Be seen, be useful, and keep showing up.
Natalie Gibbons' approach at Westpac shows what’s possible when early careers leaders step into the spotlight. By taking responsibility for the full program and using scale as a way to increase strategic influence, she’s helped position graduate hiring as a business priority.
If you’re aiming to level up your impact as a grad leader, this episode is packed with insight.