The building materials and home construction industry is undergoing a profound transformation. Housing affordability is a major concern, with over 70 percent of Australians of the belief that the next generation will be worse off economically, and median house prices in major cities now around 14 times the average household income.

At the same time, homes are expected to serve more diverse household structures, with one in five Australian families now living in multigenerational homes.

“At James Hardie, we’re responding by focusing on solutions that make a real difference for homeowners, trade professionals and our own employees,” says John Arneil, James Hardie President – Asia Pacific and Manufacturing Executive of the Year finalist in The CEO Magazine’s 2025 Executive of the Year Awards.

The global building materials company has recently launched products like Stria™ Cladding Fine Texture to help address build efficiency and adaptability.

“The interlocking board edges allow for quick and easy installation, and with concealed fix options, there is no face fixing or patching required up to certain wind zones,” Arneil explains.

Embedded texture technology creates consistent textures without the need for specialist tradespeople, and the boards come pre-primed and ready to paint, he adds.

“By listening to our people and customers, and anticipating their evolving needs, we’re helping shape homes and workplaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also stand up to our harsh Australian environment,” he continues.

Contemporary design

Arneil, who has helmed James Hardie’s Asia–Pacific operations since February 2023, joined the company more than two decades ago and has held commercial and operational roles in global offices, including Europe, North America and the Asia–Pacific.

Over the past decade, in particular, the company has seen what Arneil describes as a remarkable shift in how homes are designed and built, and he is particularly proud of the role James Hardie has played across Australia and New Zealand.

“This reflects the trust our customers place in our products and the scale of our impact on modern living,” he says.

Its ‘Modern Homes Forecast’, an annual research report for homeowners and trade professionals on enduring and emerging contemporary home styles, has positioned the company as a leader in contemporary design, driven by deep consumer insights and strong partnerships with some of the country’s largest builders.

“We’re not just responding to change, we’re helping drive it, influencing how homes are built to better reflect the way Australian people live today,” he says.

‘Building a better future for all’ is the guiding principle driving everything the company does: for instance, the Hardie™ fiber cement products sold in Australia are Australian made, supporting more than 470 local manufacturing jobs in a clear demonstration of James Hardie’s commitment to Australian manufacturing.

The company is also investing in local capability and workforce wellbeing, an example being the Carole Park People Centre, a multimillion-dollar facility currently under construction at its Carole Park manufacturing plant, designed to support collaboration and ongoing manufacturing employment in Queensland.

“From local manufacturing and product innovation to community partnerships and sustainability, we’re committed to making a positive impact that lasts,” Arneil says.

“I’m proud to lead a company that puts people first, embraces change and strives to create value for customers, employees and communities alike.

“Together, we’re shaping a future that’s brighter, more inclusive and built to endure.”

Changing home needs

Speaking of the future, Arneil explains that James Hardie has a clear vision for the future of Australian homes.

“We envision a future where every home reflects its occupants: smart, resilient and deeply personal. James Hardie is committed to playing a key role in this transformation,” he explains.

“We believe the future home must deliver more with less: smarter layouts, durable materials and spaces that support wellbeing, creativity and connection.”

As regulations like the 7-star energy rating raise expectations for comfort and efficiency, Arneil sees James Hardie leading by example.

“We are progressing toward our 2030 global goal of a 42 percent absolute reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, which is aligned with the Paris Climate Agreement,” he says.

“We are also investing in local capability and driving product innovation to support these changing home needs.”

Arneil also sees the company’s role as one that empowers homeowners, builders, architects and designers to create homes that reflect their values, foster joy and adapt to life’s uncertainties.

“We’re committed to supporting multigenerational living, flexible design and homes that are as expressive as they are resilient,” he says.

By staying true to its purpose and driving positive change, he knows James Hardie can shape an industry that puts people, innovation and impact at the heart of every build.

“Ultimately, I want James Hardie to be known not just for our products, but for the way we help Australians live better by supporting homes that are long-lasting and adaptable for future generations.”

A diversity of perspectives

Arneil wants to ensure Australians live better, but he hasn’t forgotten to shore up the foundations when it comes to its greatest asset: people.

“Our culture is built on genuine care, ambition and a belief in the power of people working together,” he says.

Inclusivity is central to how the company operates; everyone is encouraged to bring their whole self to work.

“We celebrate the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives that make our business stronger,” he notes.

“We talk a lot about being smart, driven and real, qualities that show up in how our people solve problems, pursue results and build genuine relationships.”

Such a workplace culture owes its success to the principle of Zero Harm.

“It’s not just a safety program, but a mindset that shapes our decisions and the way that we show up for each other every day,” he says.

“Our annual Zero Harm Month held every October is a highlight, bringing our teams together across all sites to focus on physical and psychological safety, share learnings and reinforce our commitment to wellbeing.”

The company is also passionate about learning and development.

“Our leadership programs are designed to help people grow, whether they’re just starting out or leading teams,” Arneil explains. “We invest in coaching, mentoring and practical training that builds capability and confidence.”

The result is a culture that creates energy and momentum.

“When people feel safe, valued and empowered, they bring their best to work,” he points out. “That’s when innovation happens, relationships flourish and goals are achieved.”

The results speak for themselves. Hardie Heartbeat, the company’s engagement survey, shows an 87 percent employee engagement score in the Asia–Pacific.

“That’s significantly higher than global manufacturing benchmarks by 11–13 percent,” Arneil says, adding that its manager effectiveness score sits at 88 percent, and its gender pay gap currently sits at 3.7 percent in favor of women.

“That reflects our commitment to fairness, inclusion and equal opportunity,” he continues.

Meaning in relationships

After more than 20 years at James Hardie, Arneil has experienced his fair share of career highs. Yet if he had to single out one aspect of the job, he says his favorite part remains the people.

“I love seeing how our teams come together to innovate, adapt and collaborate for success,” he says. “I’m proud of the growth we’ve achieved over the past two decades, and even prouder of the culture we’ve built: one that’s grounded in resilience, curiosity and shared purpose.

“Whether it’s launching a new product, solving a complex challenge or celebrating a milestone with our partners, I find meaning in the relationships we build and the impact we make.

“The opportunity to lead a team that’s passionate, driven and committed to building a better future for all is what motivates me every day.”