Sarah Withell is a seasoned executive leader with over 25 years of experience in health, safety, and environmental (HSE) management across Australia’s mining and resources sector. Currently serving as the Executive General Manager – Health, Safety and Environment at Whitehaven Coal, Sarah has been instrumental in elevating HSE performance to the executive level, driving strategic change including doubling the size of the business, and embedding governance frameworks that have led to measurable improvements in safety and environmental outcomes.

Her leadership has resulted in a 25% reduction in total recordable injury frequency (TRIF), reduction in serious incidents and the elimination of environmental enforcement actions across Whitehaven. She has also championed biodiversity initiatives, securing over 10,000 hectares of land for conservation, and has played a pivotal role in promoting inclusion and diversity through national mentoring programs.

Prior to her current role, Sarah held senior HSE positions at BHP, Peabody and Rio Tinto where she led high-performing teams, developed innovative risk management systems, and secured major environmental approvals. Her work has been recognised with multiple industry awards, including the 2020 Women in Industry – Excellence in Mining and the 2019 NSW Exceptional Woman in Mining.