About Us

 

The Core State way

We’re here to challenge the consulting status quo. We work differently by going deep – focused, intentional and never spread thin. We limit our engagements to a select group of clients, to give every challenge the attention it deserves.

Our senior-level expertise gives us the insight to craft solutions that fit your needs, tailored precisely to your specific problems.

Our approach is ongoing and fully supported, but always delivered with one goal in mind: to get you to a place where you no longer need us. We call it the Mary Poppins approach. And it results in robust, adaptable organisations that are always ready for what comes next.

What you can expect from us:
Real talk

Change is hard, and we won't sugarcoat it.

Empathy

We've been in your shoes and know how they pinch.

Practicality

No cookie-cutter frameworks or amorphous models.

Collaboration

Change that's done with you, not to you.
Sustainability

We set you up to carry on without us.

No gatekeeping

Knowledge is shared, not guarded.

No one left hanging

Ongoing support, when you need it.
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Core State ways of working

 

Flexibility comes first. Whether in person, remote or hybrid, we adapt to what works for you. From one-off projects or workshops to embedded and ongoing consulting – we shape our engagement to fit your needs and leave you empowered to take the next step solo.
Sharon-Robson

Sharon Robson

Partner / Director

Sharon is a trailblazer in reshaping how organisations work and lead. An expert in organisational dynamics and pioneering leadership strategies, she partners with senior leaders to challenge assumptions, shake things up and deliver lasting value.

Known for her collaborative spirit, Sharon builds strong, enduring connections with clients and colleagues who can tell she’s already walked 100 miles in their shoes. Her hands-on experience helps her create environments where teams are engaged, empowered and equipped to succeed.

Awards & Certifications

  • Master in Business Psychology
  • Graduate Diploma Information Technology (Software)
  • Bachelor of Science (Honours in Spatial Analysis)
  • George Washington School of Business – Project Management
  • EMCC Certified Team Coach
Awards
  • Winner – WIT (Women in Technology) Outstanding Achievement award 2021
Agile Certifications
  • Enterprise Business Agility Strategist
  •  IC Agile:
    • Certified Professional
    • Agile Team Facilitation
    • Agile Coaching
    • Agile Product Ownership
    • Product Management
    • Enterprise Product Management
    • Delivery at Scale
    • Agile Project and Delivery Management
    • Business Agility Foundations
    • Leading with Agility
    • Agility in HR
    • Certified Expert in Agile Testing
Will-McNelis

Will McNelis

Partner / Director

Will is a seasoned coach, facilitator and delivery leader with lived experience spanning technology, marketing, business and leadership. Known for his calm authority and no-nonsense style, he helps organisations unlock their potential and navigate the shifting demands of the modern workplace.

His track record includes guiding the Australian federal government through the complexities of the COVID-19 response, helping large manufacturers address global supply chain disruptions, and steering tech companies through critical cyber incidents.

Will’s leadership philosophy is grounded in empowerment: equipping teams to own their decisions, strengthen their culture and build organisations that not only withstand pressure, but thrive in it.

Awards & Certifications

  • Associate Degrees in Digital Media & Recording Engineering
Awards
  • Nominee - 2025 Pearcey Queensland ICT Entrepreneur Award
  • Winner - Australian Government Digital Awards 2020 - Outstanding Digital Product or Service
Agile Certifications
  •  IC Agile:
    • Certified Professional
    • Agile Team Facilitation
    • Agile Product Ownership
    • Accredited Trainer