Connecting creativity and culture through art

Meet one of our brilliant people: Ben Gardiner Williams. Ben talks about working on a piece of collaborative First Nations artwork for our Melbourne office that sparked meaningful conversation, and the impact he’s bringing in his role as senior creative designer.

Tell us about your role

I’m a senior creative designer and I lead and support our visual identity and brand across Asia Pacific, New Zealand and Australia. My work spans internal and external communications, client-facing materials, campaigns, and digital content, with a strong focus on strategic design thinking and inclusive storytelling.

What are some of the most exciting or innovative projects you’ve been trusted to lead or contribute to?

I’ve been focused on updating all our Asia Pacific, New Zealand and Australia content to reflect our evolved global brand identity. I’m also the South Australia Reconciliation Action Plan state lead, supporting cultural initiatives like our National Reconciliation Week events. A highlight was a 12-month collaboration with my cousin to create a First Nations artwork for our Melbourne office - a powerful project that sparked meaningful conversations and brought deeper cultural understanding into our workplace. We then brought the artwork to life through augmented reality, making it interactive and creating a whole new way for people to engage with culture and story.

What advice would you give to someone looking to shape their own story at Mott MacDonald?

Don’t be afraid to show up as your full, genuine self. Lean into your strengths, stay curious, and seek out opportunities to collaborate.

Describe what the Mott Mac Life means to you in three words

Purposeful. Supportive. Evolving.

How do you strive to create an inclusive, collaborative and supportive environment with your colleagues?

I'm still learning, but I tend to listen first. To me it helps create space for others to share ideas and feel heard.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Don’t make yourself smaller just to fit in. Keep learning, growing and being you. It’s okay if not everyone likes you. You’re here to love your story, not to please everyone.

What has been your proudest achievement?

Being able to blend my culture with my love for design, games and tech. It’s helped shape who I am as artist and opened creative paths I never thought possible.

What characteristic do you admire in other people?

I admire people who show both kindness and humility, lifting others up with compassion while staying grounded in their own worth.

Do you have a mantra you live by or that motivates you? If so, what is it?

Create with purpose, lead with heart.

How do you manage your safety and wellbeing?

I look after my wellbeing by keeping a good balance between work and personal time. I don’t check messages or emails after hours, which helps me switch off properly. If things get overwhelming, I take a breather or go for a walk. Outside of work, I stay active by playing rugby league, union, and touch footy. I also unwind by drawing, painting, playing games with friends, and making time for walks - all of which help keep my mind and body in a good place.

What does being part of a global team mean to you, and how does it influence your work?

Seeing our different cultures respected, all voices valued, and space made for different perspectives - not just in words, but in actions, too. Mott MacDonald is a global company, and it’s great to see the company culture encouraging collaboration with people from diverse backgrounds.

How does Mott MacDonald’s trust in its people influence your approach to your work?

It makes me bolder. I'm more willing to push creative boundaries, ask better questions, and collaborate openly.

How does Mott MacDonald create an environment where you feel empowered and supported?

There's trust, flexibility, and a culture of listening. I'm encouraged to lead in ways that align with my values and who I am.