OUR STAFF
Introducing our staff
DAIVA GILLAM
Chief Executive Officer
Daiva is a senior leader who has called the Pilbara home for 20 years, having lived in both Port Hedland and Karratha. She currently serves as Deputy Mayor of the City of Karratha, bringing a unique blend of strategic thinking, practical leadership and deep community insight into this role.
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In her executive roles - both in the public and private sectors - Daiva has led high-performing teams, managed operations and delivered results in environments marked by competing priorities and rapid change. She has successfully managed multimillion-dollar budgets, led safety and governance transformations, and advocated for investment in housing, childcare, health and education across the Pilbara.
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Daiva is passionate about building a strong, inclusive future for the Pilbara - one where economic development and cultural preservation go hand in hand, and where local people are empowered to lead the change they want to see. Whether she's driving operational change, advocating for policy reform, or facilitating conversations between unlikely partners, Daiva shows up with integrity, insight and a genuine commitment to leaving things better than she found them.
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At RDA Pilbara, she continues to champion solutions that uplift people, place and purpose. What sets Daiva apart is her authenticity and ability to adapt - she's equally at home in a boardroom, on a mine site, or sitting down for a cuppa with community elders.
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A graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Daiva combines business acumen with a strong governance mindset. She holds a Bachelor of Business (International Trade) and Bachelor of Arts, as well as Post Graduate qualifications in Sustainability. She also holds certifications in governance, project management, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement.
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Daiva's vision for the Pilbara is clear - a vibrant, resilient region where economic diversification, improved connectivity, inclusive growth and sustainable development translate meaningfully into a place we are proud to call home.
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p: 0427 191 272

NATALIE DRABBLE
Regional Development Officer
Natalie brings over three decades of experience in office administration, customer service, and case management, with a diverse career spanning the mining sector, Commonwealth government services, and education. Her strong organisational skills, practical problem-solving ability, and dedication to stakeholder engagement have consistently contributed to the effective delivery of high-quality services and programs.
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Originally from Perth's southern suburbs, Natalie relocated to the Pilbara with her family in 2020, embracing the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of the region. She is passionate about regional communities and committed to supporting initiatives that create meaningful economic and social outcomes.
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In her role at RDA Pilbara, Natalie is responsible for overseeing the administration of the Pilbara Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA), established in March 2022. This important program enables local businesses to address critical workforce shortages by accessing skilled migration pathways. She also supports a range of RDA Pilbara projects aimed at strengthening local capacity and driving regional development.
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m: 0499 325 584
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KRISTINE JOHNSON
Contract and Program Coordinator
Kris grew up in Queensland and relocated to the Pilbara with her partner in 2022. She quickly connected with the strong sense of community in Karratha and now proudly calls it home.
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With extensive experience in office administration and small business management, Kris brings a practical, community-focused approach to her work. She also volunteers on a board for a local not-for-profit organisation, reflecting her passion for grassroots involvement and giving back.
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At RDA Pilbara, Kris coordinates the West Pilbara Communities for Children program, a place-based initiative that supports the wellbeing and development of local children and families. She works closely with community partners and stakeholders to administer programs that make a meaningful impact across the region.
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m: 0427 191 848
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