Meet Mason — Thiess' 2020 Graduate of the Year

It’s been a big two years for Mason McManus, who was recently announced as Thiess’ 2020 Graduate of the Year.

We speak to him about his time at Thiess and why he’s proud to be a part of an exceptional global team.
First joining Thiess as a Supply Chain Graduate in 2018, Mason is now an integral member of the Legal team as a Legal Counsel.
Always ready for a challenge, Mason saw the Graduate Program as an exciting opportunity to develop both professionally and grow personally.

“I’ve always been passionate about learning new things and solving complex scenarios,” Mason said.

“I love my role because it’s dynamic – one day I can be working in the commercial space with our Tendering or Supply Chain teams and the next providing advice to solve legal and commercial challenges that arise.”

Mason also enjoys being part of a team where everyone supports, challenges and respects each other in order to achieve client-driven outcomes.

He is also incredibly proud to be a founding committee member of Allies – Thiess’ first LGBTIQA+ network that embodies Thiess’ diversity and inclusion vision - everyone matters always.

“One of my proudest achievements at Thiess has been being a part of Allies.”

“Allies was a two-way engagement process that meant employees helped build the network from their own lived experiences. Having employee and community buy-in make it more impactful and special”

“It reinforced to me that diversity and inclusion is so much more than just policy, it’s the way we work,” he said.

Mason’s manager and mentor Dan Salisbury has been impressed by the passion and capabilities Mason brings to his role.

“Mason displays excellent initiative, he’s well respected in the team and is absolutely exceeding all expectations of a first-year lawyer,” Daniel said.

“We’re so proud of Mason and what he has been able to achieve in such a short period of time. We can’t wait to see what he does next.”

You can learn more about Mason below:

Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by a lot of people and really enjoy learning from people who think differently to me. I like challenging my own perceptions and understanding different perspectives. I’m particularly inspired by today’s youth who can, at such a young age, speak openly and confidently about who they are and what they stand for.

You’re well on your way to a successful legal career but what was your childhood dream job?
I don’t know why, but in grade two I remember standing up and telling everyone I wanted to be a fireman.

Best driving songs and why?
Tragically, it would have to be the Mamma Mia soundtrack with the Winner takes it all being my favourite song. I’d also recommend skipping Pierce Bronson’s rendition of SOS – the irony.

What is your spirit animal and why?
I’d be a beaver because they’re strong, stable and always working towards a greater purpose.

What book would you recommend everyone read and why?
A book that everyone should read is Dark Emu by Bruce Pascoe. It challenges what we’re taught as children about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history in Australia. It’s an eye-opening read that reinforces how we can learn from Australia’s traditional owners through culture and land management practices.

What’s at the top of your must-do list?
See my family. I haven’t been able to see them all year and I can’t wait until I can at Christmas.