Human on the Inside with TIACS’s Jason Banks
Human on the Inside. We’re big believers in the power of human skills. But don’t just take our word for it - the evidence for excellence powered by human (‘soft’) skills is everywhere! In this engaging, ever-enlightening series, we speak with industry leaders, innovators and game-changers to learn a little about their personal career journeys, and how human-led strategies, philosophies and cultures are proving a force for good in their working worlds …
Maxme: Welcome ‘Banksy’ and thanks for stepping into the #SuccessIsHuman Spotlight!
You’re the Co-CEO of TIACS, a free phone and text counselling service offering mental health support to Australia’s blue collar community. TIACS removes the physical and financial barriers to accessing help through text and call services directly to professional counsellors.
In 1 sentence (ok, we’ll give you 3), what does this role entail?
Jason Banks: My role as Co-CEO is a unique model as there are two of us. My responsibilities cover all things market-facing such as marketing, partnerships, funding, speaking engagements, media, team culture, financial sustainability and strategic planning.
M: Whilst you’ve been with TIACS for 2.5 years, your career has spanned many industries and roles; from operations management, safety & wellness to mental health & fitness. Your impressive CV includes tenures for organisations including Coles, Bunnings, Love Me Love You Foundation, Building Better Humans & Adaptive Athletic.
How does all this work speak to your personal purpose and what drives you as an individual?
JB: I have a mantra ‘I make a living from what I get, but make a life by what I give.”
From having the opportunity to work for two large and very successful organisations, to starting my own businesses, I’m at a point in life where I’m able to give back in skills and experience. Building a social impact organisation making a real difference within the community was critical for me. I wake up everyday knowing the work I do is having an impact on hard working Australians. Holding the role I do at TIACS gives me the chance to network with some amazing people and also share the TIACS/TradeMutt story.
M: Tell us a little about your personal education pathway/s - what led you to where you are now? How closely do your formal qualifications match your current career?
JB: My first job was at nine years of age working at my parents roadhouse in North Qld where I pumped fuel and washed windscreens after school and on the weekends. My first ‘real’ (paid) job was pushing trolleys at Coles. I didn’t do so well at school so needed to do something to earn a living - that's where my leadership journey started and I’ve never looked back. 14 years with Coles; from trolley person to managing stores across Qld. Bunnings was my next adventure where I spent 16 years managing stores as Qld State Manager before progressing to National Safety & Wellness Manager. You won’t find formal qualifications on my CV, just an ethic to work hard and learn by experiences along the way.
M: If you could share one piece of career advice to your 21 year old self it would be ...
JB: Diversify your skillset.
M: Maximising the potential of individuals, communities and businesses through the power of human skills is the reason Maxme exists. Can you tell us a little about the role and / or value of human skills in your workplace right now?
JB: In providing professional mental health counselling services to the Australian blue collar community, it’s essential for us to deliver a great human experience to our clients. Those that reach out to TIACS are looking for connection with relatable people who can guide them in a positive direction. As a senior leader of TIACS, my role is to foster a positive culture for the backbone of TIACS - our team! They are how we get our customers back on track.
M: Self Awareness sets the critical foundation for all Maxme learning experiences. With that said … what’s your strongest trait / personal super power?
JB: That's a tough one. I would have to say confidence. I’m confident in what I do, and if I don't know the answer, I’ll either go and learn about it, or surround myself with great people who do!
M: And on the flip side, what’s one human / ‘soft’ skill you’ve had to really work on improving over the course of your career?
JB: That's an easy one. Doing everything myself.
M: If you could share one piece of career advice with recent Uni graduates or candidates keen to work at TIACS, what would it be?
JB: Work hard, learn as many skills along the way as possible, jump on this large wave and enjoy the ride.
M: You’ve been granted approval to add one University graduate to your team, but have 100 applicants, all with outstanding academic results. How do you find your perfect candidate - what are you looking for?
JB: They need to be down to earth and have a sense of humour, but most importantly, show humility.
M: In the words of John Dewey, “education is not preparation for life, education is life itself.”
What’s next on your #learning agenda?
JB: Nothing specific at present, as my current focus is to help others to learn. I guess this is a form of learning in itself, as I then get to hear different ideas or ways of doing things from those I’m mentoring.
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