Leadership Team at EDALS Group

Founder

Hamish is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of EDALS Group, leading the organisation’s strategic direction, growth and long-term development.

With more than eight years of experience across both government and private-sector environments, Hamish has developed a broad professional background spanning economic development, strategic planning, infrastructure, operations, project delivery, organisational improvement and commercial management. His career has included roles within local government across New South Wales and Queensland, as well as senior operational and project-focused positions within the private sector.

Hamish began his entrepreneurial journey in 2019 with the establishment of HSS Earthworks. As the business evolved and its potential expanded, that original enterprise ultimately developed into EDALS Group, creating the foundation for a broader and increasingly diversified organisation.

Under Hamish’s leadership, EDALS Group has continued to expand its interests across infrastructure, architecture, engineering, technology, innovation, sustainability, major project development and strategic investment. His approach is strongly future-focused, with an emphasis on identifying opportunities, building capable leadership teams and developing projects that can deliver long-term organisational, economic and community value.

Alongside his role at EDALS Group, Hamish has contributed to significant regional development, economic strategy and infrastructure initiatives and remains particularly passionate about the future of regional communities, investment attraction and creating new opportunities outside Australia’s major metropolitan centres.

Hamish believes the long-term success of EDALS Group will ultimately be determined by the quality of its people, the strength of its leadership and the organisation’s willingness to continue evolving.

“Without our dedicated team members, partners and the clientele we serve, EDALS Group would not be where it is today. I am incredibly grateful for the people who have supported our journey and continue to contribute to what we are building.
What we have achieved matters, but I remain far more interested in what we can achieve next.”

— Hamish Slade, Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Chief Happiness Officer

We are pleased to introduce our Chief Happiness Officer at EDALS Group, a unique and highly valued member of the executive team whose primary responsibility is ensuring that morale remains high, stress levels remain low, and that no team member goes too long without a smile.

While the role of Chief Happiness Officer may be unconventional, its purpose is one we take seriously at EDALS Group. Research consistently demonstrates the positive impact that animals can have on workplace wellbeing, team engagement, and organisational culture. As our resident canine executive, Opal plays an important role in fostering a positive and welcoming environment throughout the organisation.

With an unwavering commitment to staff welfare, Opal can often be found conducting routine morale inspections, greeting visitors, attending executive meetings, supervising office/site activities, and reminding team members of the importance of maintaining balance throughout the workday. Her approachable nature and enthusiastic outlook have made her a favourite amongst employees, stakeholders, and visitors alike at EDALS Group.

As Chief Happiness Officer, Opal serves as a constant reminder that while ambition, growth, and performance remain central to our organisation, people will always be our greatest asset. Through her daily contributions, she helps reinforce a culture built on connection, positivity, and genuine care for one another among all team members.

By promoting a workplace environment at EDALS Group that values wellbeing alongside achievement, Opal continues to make a meaningful contribution to the culture and character of our organisation.

“Every successful organisation needs individuals who can bring people together, lift spirits, and improve morale. Opal has excelled in this role from day one and continues to remind us that sometimes the most important leadership qualities are loyalty, enthusiasm, and the ability to brighten someone's day.”

Hamish Slade

Founder