What do you do in your role at TACSI?
I’m an implementer with a strategic mindset and an eye for detail. I provide strategic operational leadership across our business functions – including finance, people and culture, tech, risk and compliance – to achieve our mission and strategic priorities.
When you’re not at work, what do you get up to?
As a saltwater girl who grew up in rural NZ, I love the ocean and mountains. You’ll find me – with my daughters, hubby, extended family and friends – swimming, paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, preparing and enjoying delicious food.
What change would you like to see in the world, and why?
Less patriarchy, more matriarchy. More heart and gut, less head and wallet. There are world views and resilience at a grassroots level in rural and First Nation communities around the world that I believe hold the key to resolving some of the biggest challenges we face as a society today. Our role is to elevate these voices to achieve a more equitable distribution of wealth and therefore power.
What were you doing before working at TACSI?
I was the managing director of Meld Studios, a purpose-led co-design consultancy; and the first Australian organisation to become Employee Owned by Trust (EOT). I provided executive, strategic, and operational leadership to achieve Meld’s mission of equitable, sustainable, and just futures.
Who inspires you, and why?
I am hugely inspired by the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who step into their power, own their indigeneity, and challenge the status quo.
I am also inspired by the raw humanness and compassionate leadership style of Jacinda Ardern, Ted Lasso (Apple TV), and Gloria in the Barbie movie (that monologue!).
Looking back at your career, what’s been the highlight?
My work with Meld Studios. I co-led a co-design practice – with a progressive people and culture philosophy – to achieve social and environmental outcomes through hundreds of digital, architectural and cultural transformation programs. Received industry recognition from Good Design Australia on a number of projects; and ranked in the AFR BOSS Top 5 Best Places to Work for Professional Services.
What are you reading/watching/listening to at the moment?
I’ve been following the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) work that Frank Bold is doing across the EU. I’m intrigued to see the impact this has on corporate social responsibility in Australia.
On LinkedIn, I’m most recently inspired by Sam Alderton-Johnson and his Impact Policy content advocating for access, equity, inclusion and justice.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you ‘grew up’?
Not poor and a good parent.
What’s a book, film or resource that you would recommend to someone interested in social impact?
- An Indigenous Māori View of Doughnut Economics by Juhi Shareef (2020)
- The Australian Human Rights Commission
What’s something on your bucket list?
Japan!
