Elexon Electronics’ New Chapter: Chris Whitaker Discusses Defence, Culture, and Growth

After four years leading Elexon Mining, Chris Whitaker has stepped into the role of General Manager at Elexon Electronics, bringing with him more than three decades of experience in advanced manufacturing and a track record of thoughtful, people-first leadership. In this interview, Chris shares his vision for the company’s next chapter. From strengthening our core capabilities to embracing new opportunities in defence and product development, he speaks openly about his goals, leadership style, and the values that will guide Elexon forward.

Chris, you have been part of the Elexon Group for some time now, leading Elexon Mining. Can you share what those years have taught you about the company and what excites you most about stepping into the CEO role at Elexon Electronics?

It has been about four years, yes, time flies. Over that period, I have come to know the business quite well. What excites me most about this new role is the challenge itself—being able to apply my experience and skill set in a different context to grow Elexon Electronics. It is a new team, a new focus, and many new opportunities, and that makes it both exciting and energising.

Before joining Elexon, you spent almost 30 years at Aim Lab Automation Technologies. How has that journey shaped your leadership approach in high-tech environments like Elexon?

Aim Lab is a high-tech business focused on laboratory automation, involving a lot of product design and assembly. Elexon Electronics is also a technology-driven company, but our work here starts at the component level, it’s more complex, involving high-end electronics manufacturing with Industry 4.0 features. The fundamentals are similar in many ways. Both companies prioritise innovation, quality and precision.

Over the past year, Elexon has undergone significant changes. Can you tell us where the Elexon Group of Companies is heading as a business?

These changes have been part of a broader effort to right-size the team and set the business up for long-term success. We are essentially resetting our foundations, making sure we have the right people in the right roles and that our structure supports both current needs and future growth. As Elexon Mining continues to grow and bring more of its manufacturing in-house, it creates an opportunity for Elexon Electronics to sharpen its focus. We are now in a stronger position to deepen relationships with our contract manufacturing customers, strengthen our role in defence, and continue building on our traditional markets like mining and industrial technology. It is about clarity, capability, and ensuring we are delivering value where it matters most.

With a strong foundation in place, what do you see as the most important elements for ensuring Elexon remains resilient and competitive?

Our resilience comes from customer focus and continuous improvement—principles that are at the core of our Elexon2Zero program: zero defects, zero delays, zero returns. These priorities guide everything we do, and I believe keeping that focus will help us stay competitive in a fast-evolving industry.

Elexon has built a reputation in sensor technologies, RFID, and wireless communication. How do you see that evolving under your leadership?

I do not see that changing. Our strength lies in those core areas, and even the latest developments, particularly at Elexon Mining are evolutions of the same technologies. We are staying true to what we do best, building on those capabilities.

Do you plan to expand into adjacent technologies, or is the focus on deepening existing expertise?

Our long-term goal remains the same: to design products in-house, make them manufacturable, and build them ourselves. At the moment, we are also focusing on contract manufacturing, but the original vision is still very much alive.

The Elexon2Zero initiative has been transformative. How do you see it evolving in this next chapter?

Elexon2Zero remains a cornerstone of our operations. We want to continue improving our internal processes and quality systems, not just for our own benefit but also to support our customers, particularly in demanding sectors like Defence.

Speaking of Defence, what role do you see Elexon playing in that sector moving forward?

Defence is one of our key focuses. Our facility was purpose-built with defence standards in mind, and we are uniquely equipped for that type of work. Our ideal scenario is to contribute not only through manufacturing but by leveraging the IP and product development capabilities we have within the group. We are here to be a true partner, not just a supplier.

Elexon is known for its strong culture, created by founders Pieter Kuiper and Leigh Bateman. What is your plan to maintain and further develop that culture?

I have known Pieter and Leigh for many years, and we share very similar values. That culture, the integrity, the collaboration, the hands-on attitude, is something I deeply respect and want to preserve. My leadership style is about supporting the team and reinforcing that strong internal culture as we grow.

You have mentioned the importance of building the right team. Can you elaborate?

We are being very deliberate in identifying the right people for the next stage of our journey. It is about setting up the team that can help us thrive. We are seeding the future with people who align with our values, bring energy, and help us continue delivering on our promises.

Elexon is also known for its collaboration with universities and inspiring young engineers. What is your perspective on this?

I think it is incredibly important. Throughout my career, I have always had interns and students involved in the business. There is no substitute for hands-on experience, and we are proud to work with the University of the Sunshine Coast to give students opportunities across the group, in electronics or mining. It helps develop future talent and strengthens our industry.

On a personal note, how have you changed as a leader over the years?

With time, you realise the importance of listening more and empowering your team. I have become more focused on building strong foundations, creating clarity and supporting people to do their best work.

What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

Do not rush. Learn as much as you can from every opportunity. Be open to unexpected paths, they often lead you where you are meant to be.

And finally, if you could share one key message with the Elexon team and partners, what would it be?

We are committed to growing together. Whether you are a customer, partner, or team member, our goal is to work collaboratively and achieve the best outcomes. We want to be more than just a service provider, we want to be your long-term partner in innovation.

On a more personal note, what are some of your passions or hobbies outside of work?

I have always been someone who enjoys the challenge of work—it gives me a sense of purpose and keeps me energised. But outside of that, my wife and I now have grandchildren, and that has brought a whole new perspective to life. Spending time with them is incredibly grounding. It reminds you of what truly matters and helps you approach things with a bit more balance. It is a different chapter, and one that I am really enjoying.