Tell us about your career to date?
I’ve been fortunate to have quite a varied career with experiences across government, not-for-profit and banking, with roles spanning property, HR, finance, strategy, and major projects.
How did you become involved with FINSIA?
I worked at CBA for over 16 years and joined FINSIA almost as soon as I started. FINSIA was synonymous with professional development and most of us had a FINSIA course on our development plan.
We've read your title, now tell us how you would describe what you ACTUALLY do to a friend at a BBQ?
What a great question – Deputy CEO isn’t very self-explanatory. Australian Banking Association exists to represents the interests of its members – Australian banks – to work with government and regulators to ensure we have strong, secure banking system. When I describe my role to people, I say I’m responsible for optimising our organisation to ensure we have the right strategy, people, systems and processes to develop and establish the best policy positions for the industry and amplify those positions through research, media and events.
What led you to pursue your career path in the first place and can you remember where and when the lightbulb came on?
I enjoy enabling others to be the best that they can be. I enjoy encouraging and coaching other to grow, learn, take on new challenges and excel. I am also a life-long learner. The banking industry is multi-disciplinary, affording opportunities to work across different functions and specialist areas. It is evolving, responsive to changing consumer needs and leveraging latest technologies.
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
To always know what you are bringing to a role and what you expect to receive – the give and the get – and the importance of getting the balance right.
In hindsight, what is the one thing you would have done differently in getting to where you are now?
No regrets, no changes, every aspect of my career provided learning opportunities and I wouldn’t change a thing.
Who is your most influential or inspirational professional influence and why?
I’ve been inspired by so many of the leaders I’ve worked for over the years, and when I reflect on what I’ve learnt, its probably best summed up by Peter Drucker’s quote – “Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things”
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I value time with my family and friends, especially my 3 teenage children.
