A seasoned business leader with over 25 years of experience in advanced manufacturing, leadership development, business transformation and an advocate for sustainability.
Ben Eaton has been a transformative figure in the advanced manufacturing sector for over 25 years.
As CEO of Starleaton, a 45 year old, second-generation family business, Ben has not only led his company through periods of growth and resilience but has also dedicated himself to the advancement of the industry at large.
Starleaton has operated across two countries, with eight locations and a team of over 70 staff. Under Ben’s leadership, the company has navigated significant challenges, including the catastrophic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During this unprecedented period, Ben demonstrated exceptional leadership, steering Starleaton through supply chain disruptions, shifting market demands, and economic uncertainty. His decisive actions and innovative strategies ensured the business emerged stronger, continuing to deliver exceptional value to customers and supporting the livelihoods of its employees.
Ben’s leadership is underpinned by a steadfast belief in the power of education to shape the future. As Chair of the Visual Connections Education Committee and a driving force behind the FESPA Australia Future Leader program, Ben has worked tirelessly to nurture the next generation of industry leaders. Through these initiatives, he has championed the importance of knowledge-sharing and innovation, ensuring a sustainable and thriving future for the sector.
In his role as Vice President and long-standing board member of Visual Connections, Ben has been instrumental in promoting the value of visual communication. He has fostered collaboration among industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and businesses to highlight the enduring relevance of advanced manufacturing in a rapidly evolving digital world.
His contributions extend beyond advocacy, as he frequently shares his expertise on industry panels, inspiring others with his vision and commitment.
Ben’s passion for the sector is matched by his dedication to sustainability. He has championed the adoption of eco-friendly products and practices, consulting with businesses across Australia and New Zealand to create more sustainable and profitable operations. His efforts reflect a deep understanding of the need for balance between environmental responsibility and business success.
For over eight years, Ben has also worked closely with Peter Cox and the Leadership Dynamics process to elevate Starleaton’s culture and performance. Leadership Dynamics emphasizes key characteristics, principles, and strategies that foster high-performing individuals and teams. Through this collaboration, Ben has embedded a leadership framework that includes:
Beyond Starleaton, Ben has also brought the Leadership Dynamics framework to other businesses, helping them achieve transformative growth and success. Companies he has worked with have reported significant improvements in employee engagement, reduced staff turnover, and increased profitability. By applying these principles, businesses have strengthened their leadership capabilities, fostered unity within teams, and created cultures where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally.
Ben’s impact extends across a diverse range of industries, where his guidance has enabled organizations to navigate complex challenges and achieve their strategic goals. His ability to tailor the Leadership Dynamics process to the unique needs of each business has made him a trusted advisor and mentor.
At the heart of Ben’s professional success is his deep commitment to family values and community. As a leader of a family business, he places a strong emphasis on fostering a supportive, inclusive culture that mirrors his personal values. Ben is passionate about giving back to the community, dedicating time to mentoring others, supporting industry initiatives, and ensuring that the values of integrity, collaboration, and care are at the forefront of all he does.
Ben Eaton is a seasoned business leader with over 25 years of experience in advanced manufacturing, leadership development, and business transformation. As CEO of Starleaton and a long-standing industry advocate, he has successfully navigated complex challenges, fostered high-performance teams, and driven sustainable growth—both within his own company and for the businesses he mentors with Leadership Dynamics.
If you would like to talk further about how Ben and the Leadership Dynamics process can be of benefit to you, please contact the team at Leadership Dynamics.
