Mass transit operator Kinetic has launched a new cadetship program aimed at developing the next generation of leaders in the transport industry across Australia and New Zealand.
The Kinetic Cadetship Program will provide participants with practical experience across key areas of the business, including operations, planning and leadership. Cadets will undertake structured rotations while receiving targeted training, dedicated mentorship and a pathway to permanent roles upon completing the program.
Kinetic Group CEO Michael Sewards said the initiative reflects the company’s focus on investing in people and building long-term leadership capability within the organisation.
“We’re creating clear career pathways that give motivated individuals the skills, confidence and operational knowledge to become our future leaders,” Sewards said.
“This is about developing talent the Kinetic way — with real experience across every part of our operation.”
The 2026 intake will include cadets based in both Australia and New Zealand. In Australia, two positions are available, including a role within the planning team on the Gold Coast and another based in Melbourne as part of the company’s operations leadership pathway.
The inaugural Australian intake will focus on encouraging women to apply, with the program designed to help address the longstanding under-representation of women in leadership roles within the transport sector.
Kinetic Executive General Manager – People and Safety (Australia) Madonna Hegerty said the approach is intended to support a more diverse leadership pipeline.
“Women remain underrepresented in leadership roles across the transport industry, and we’re determined to change that,” Hegerty said.
“This program gives women the opportunity to develop the skills and experience they need to step into senior operational roles.”
In New Zealand, two cadet positions will be offered across Kinetic’s urban and regional operations, also following an operations leadership pathway.
Kinetic Director – People, Culture and Safety (New Zealand) Nicky Harrison said the program will help strengthen leadership capability within the organisation’s New Zealand operations.
“This program is about building our future leaders here in New Zealand,” Harrison said.
“By providing structured development and real operational experience, we’re creating clear pathways for talented people to step into leadership roles across our New Zealand operations.”
