November 04, 2025 • 2 min read
Finding the right balance:
Iain’s journey of challenge and opportunity
“The best way to stay engaged and excited about work is to take on challenges that push you outside your comfort zone.”
For Iain Lonie, water is more than just a resource – it’s a key driver of sustainable economic development. As Water and Dams Lead, he plays a central role in expanding our water business, managing the Brisbane Water Resources team and developing our dams team on Australia’s East Coast. With a wealth of international experience and over two years in our team, Iain has welcomed the opportunities, challenges and flexibility that come with his role.
A multidisciplinary career
Iain’s career has taken him across multiple disciplines from geotechnical engineering to geology, hydrology, hydraulics, structural, mechanical and electrical engineering. “I originally saw myself as a geotechnical engineer, but along the way, I gained experience in numerous disciplines,” he says. “That’s what I love about working in dams; it’s a multidisciplinary field, and there’s always something new to learn.”
While Iain’s initial career driver was finding a company that would provide exposure to exciting projects and global opportunities, his focus has evolved. Today, he enjoys the strategic development of our water and dams business and engaging with colleagues and clients to create solutions that make a real difference.
Prioritizing work-life balance
One of the standout aspects of our culture for Iain is the flexibility, allowing him to balance his professional and personal life. “The ability to work from home twice a week has been fantastic,” he says. “I can attend my kid’s school events and cricket training, which I wouldn’t have been able to do in a traditional office environment. Having the ability to integrate family, personal interests and career seamlessly has been a game changer.”
Embracing growth culture
For Iain, team culture is a key part of success. “Worley has a ‘can do’ attitude, operating seamlessly across the APAC region and internationally. Worley resources projects on a ‘best for project’ basis rather than relying on in-region staff. This results in highly experienced and capable project teams working in a truly collaborative environment which makes a huge difference when delivering complex projects.”
Our culture of continuous learning and ability to rise to the challenge has allowed Iain to further a career that is both rewarding and ever evolving. Being pushed outside of his comfort zone is what has kept him consistently engaged in his work, “That’s how you grow, learn and develop a fulfilling career.”
Finding purpose in work and life
Our core commitment to sustainability resonates deeply with Iain. “As a professional in the water industry, a more sustainable world means better access to clean water for sustainable economic development,” he says. Being part of a company that aligns with his values has made his work all the more meaningful.
With a supportive culture, flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on innovation, Iain’s been able to build a role that balances technical leadership, strategic growth and personal fulfillment. Whether he’s working on complex projects, mentoring his team or cheering on his kids at cricket, he’s found a way to bring it all together, which is much more rewarding.
