In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan welcomes Domenic De Fazio, a seasoned executive whose career journey from project manager to CEO is marked by conviction, courage, and consistency. Domenic shares the raw truth about navigating leadership without compromising your values, and what happens when the traditional leadership "suit" no longer fits who you are. From making the leap into executive roles to managing board dynamics and driving a values-based culture, this is a masterclass in real-world leadership.

Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned professional rethinking your next move, this episode unpacks what it means to lead with empathy, build trust, and influence without manipulation, even in complex corporate environments.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Leadership & Organisational Culture

• Why empathy and consistency matter more than charisma in leadership
• How to build and scale culture across teams, departments, and countries
• The art of giving feedback that’s honest, not brutal

Navigating Executive Roles

• How Domenic stepped into the CEO seat while staying true to himself
• Why board dynamics are often dysfunctional, and how to lead through them
• Skills that matter most at the GM and C-suite levels

Career Development & Succession

• How visibility and risk-taking can accelerate your rise
• The difference between managing up and bringing people along
• Why being “seen” matters more than ever in hybrid workplaces

Authenticity & Personal Legacy

• The link between personal values and professional leadership
• Why authenticity creates safety, and what that looks like in practice
• How to leave a legacy that empowers others to be their best, most honest selves

Key Quotes from Domenic De Fazio:

• “If getting to the top means I have to be more of a mongrel, I’m okay not getting to the top.”
• “Sometimes people just need time to get used to ideas. You plant the seed and let it grow.”
• “There’s nothing authentic about brutality. Feedback should be empathetic and honest.”
• “If you’re not seen, you’re not seen. Visibility matters.”
• “Because they worked with me, I hope people felt they could be their true selves.”

About Our Guest:

Domenic De Fazio is a seasoned executive and former COO who has built his career on authentic leadership, strategic risk-taking, and a deep commitment to building cultures that last. With experience across project management, operations, and executive roles across Australia and New Zealand, Domenic’s story is a blueprint for leaders who want to do more than succeed; they want to lead with purpose.

About Your Host:

Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.

How You Can Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
• Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.
• Connect with Domenic De Fazio on LinkedIn 

Stay Connected:

• Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.
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Let’s Connect:

• Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.

Thanks for listening! Leaders don’t wait for doors to open, they build them.