CIO50 26-50 John Granger, Cleanaway

Name: John Granger
Title: Chief information officer
Company: Cleanaway
Commenced role: 2016
Reporting line: CFO
Member of the executive team: Yes
Technology Function: 110 staff, 5 direct reports

Under John Granger’s leadership as chief information officer, waste management company Cleanaway’s IT team has developed a platform to which is delivering real-time update on crucial information – the safety of its vehicles in its fleet and the behaviour of drivers.

Granger and his team championed the development of the solution, built in-house, driven by the realisation that no viable off-the-shelf option existed in the market.

Deep visibility into operations

“The system solution seamlessly integrates data feeds from multiple telemetric systems, providing a comprehensive view of our fleet’s operations,” Granger tells CIO Australia.

“By blending this telemetric data with vehicle asset and driver information, we have created a holistic dataset that offers deep visibility into our operations.”

The system incorporates both semi-static metadata and live geo-location data, enabling real-time analytics and intelligent processing enabling Cleanaway to swiftly analyse incoming data streams and extract valuable insights.

Real-time analytics deliver up-to-the-minute information on critical aspects such as vehicle safety and driver behaviour.

“This allows us to identify patterns, detect anomalies, and proactively address potential issues before they disrupt operations,” says Granger.

“With the ability to perform real-time analysis, our response is swift and effective, minimising downtime, optimising resource allocation, and enhancing operational efficiency.”

Proactive safety alerts

In addition, the system generates proactive alerts based on data analysed, enabling immediate action when there’s a deviation from predefined thresholds or safety parameters.

“Whether it’s a vehicle driving out of a safe zone, driver fatigue, or operating when it shouldn’t be, our system triggers alerts in real-time,” says Granger.

“This capability empowers us to promptly address these situations, preventing incidents from escalating.”

Since no market equivalent for such a platform existed, Granger supported and championed the implementation of an in-house development function run under Agile methods to implement the solution.

“It achieved an amazing result and buy-in from the business. The platform is now being adopted outside of the original intended audience, due to how valuable to real-time information is,” says Granger.

Championing digitisation

As head of IT since 2016, Granger has been a strong force in driving change and influencing people within Cleanaway.

A notable example of this is his role in championing the organisation’s digitisation strategy, which helped the ICT team gain board buy-in for a significant multi-year, $100 million investment in technology and process transformation.

Granger deployed compelling arguments and a clear vision for the future to help persuade key stakeholders to embrace this strategic initiative.

“This helped inspire confidence and trust in the digitisation efforts, helping to shape the technology landscape across our entire company,” he says.

“By effectively communicating the benefits and potential outcomes, we rallied support and generated excitement among team members, encouraging them to actively engage in the transformation process.”

Granger’s ability to influence people extends beyond just securing investment. Helping to foster a culture of innovation and openness to change at the company, has enabled him to effectively convey the importance of the digitisation strategy to employees at all levels of the organisation.

Meanwhile, Granger has also encouraged an environment of inclusivity, fairness, and diversity across all of his teams, from what was once a very challenging and at times toxic corporate culture.

He has actively worked to support the transformation of ICT and the company culture into one that encourages growth, well-being, and productivity.

“Creating a positive and inclusive environment has allowed the team to thrive and reach new heights of success,” he says.

Under his leadership, the Cleanaway IT team has doubled in size and includes talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, with Granger focussed on cultivating an environment that values diversity and promotes innovation.

In addition, with a commitment to fairness Granger has contributed to increased engagement, collaboration, and ultimately, enhanced productivity within the IT team.

Louis van Wyk