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Career growth is often shaped by opportunity, support and the willingness to take on new challenges.
Since joining United Rentals in 2014, Leila John has progressed from Admin Assistant to Branch Manager of Mobile Storage Sydney. She now leads the Moorebank branch with a focus on people, performance and safety.
In the interview below, Leila shares her biggest learning moments, leadership approach and goals for the Moorebank branch.
Can you walk us through your journey at United Rentals — from admin to Branch Manager?
I joined United Rentals in 2014 as an Admin Assistant. It was the perfect starting point and allowed me to learn the fundamentals of the business, which really laid the foundation for the knowledge and skills I have today.
In 2019, I was promoted to Admin Manager, which came with increased responsibility, managing a direct report and building stronger relationships across other departments.
In 2023, when United Rentals acquired Royal Wolf, the opportunity for Branch Manager for Mobile Storage Sydney came up. It was a new role and not something I had initially considered, but with the support and advocacy of my managers, I took on the challenge. I’m very proud to be the Branch Manager today.
What were the biggest learning moments at each stage of your career progression?
With each stage of my career came a new level of responsibility, confidence and initiative. I learned that challenges aren’t something you can shy away from, they’re something you have to embrace in order to grow.
What motivated you to keep growing within the company rather than looking elsewhere?
Being surrounded by a supportive team that recognised my contribution and work ethic and saw my potential.
How would you describe your leadership style today?
I have a supportive leadership style. I want my team to feel like I’m approachable and that we’re all in this together. At the same time, I expect my team to perform and deliver results.
What personal values do you bring into your role each day?
I pride myself on being an honest, reliable and loyal person. I also have a strong work ethic, so I hope this shines through my role as Branch Manager.
It’s important to me that my team knows I am here for them and will back them 100%.
You’ve built a strong culture at the Moorebank branch. Why is recognition so important to you?
We’re all here working towards one goal, and I believe it’s important for team morale and spirit that everyone’s efforts are recognised and celebrated together as a team.
Our workplace can be fast-paced and demanding, which makes recognition even more important. It reminds people that they’re valued employees and not just a number here at United Rentals.
What does a “great day” at the Moorebank branch look like?
A great day starts with a driveway full of empty trucks because that means our fleet is going out, not coming back. Secondly, we’re all working together with a positive, supportive attitude and ensuring our customers have a great experience dealing with us.
Most importantly, everyone goes home the same way they arrived, safe & healthy - That’s my number one priority. If safety, staff morale and performance are all positive, that’s a great day to me.
How do you support your team through busy or challenging periods?
By creating an environment where people feel comfortable coming to me and knowing what needs to be prioritised. We’re all human, so mistakes are expected, but it’s about how we all come together as a team to resolve them.
What are your goals for the Moorebank branch moving forward?
I’d love for Moorebank to consistently be one of the highest-performing branches. To achieve that, my focus will always be on creating an environment where employees want to thrive.
Leila’s journey is a strong reminder that career growth is built through opportunity, support and the willingness to take on new challenges.
By leading with integrity, accountability and a genuine focus on her people, Leila continues to shape a culture at Moorebank where teams feel supported, recognised and motivated to perform.