This year’s Australian ladies in Business Excellence Awards honorees are some very exceptional ladies, and we are thrilled to tell you their stories. The event is more than just a prize-giving ceremony; it is a jubilant celebration of the successes, creativity, and tenacity of women who are leading their industries. Rather than merely succeeding, each of these honorees has revolutionised their fields by setting new benchmarks and overcoming obstacles.
Together, we can celebrate these remarkable women and give voice to their inspiring stories, showcasing the challenges they overcame and the positive impact they had.
Carly Irving-Dolan
Carly Irving-Dolan, the visionary CEO of NRMA Energy in Australia, is dedicated to empowering individuals and driving significant change in the energy sector. Her leadership is pivotal in developing and evolving NRMA’s EV and Energy strategy, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions, meeting greening targets, and fostering innovation for a sustainable energy future. Previously, as the EGM CEO of Yurika, Carly played a crucial role in guiding organizations through the energy transition, simplifying complex processes, and impacting how people conduct business and live sustainably.
With over three decades of experience, Carly’s career is marked by her ability to foster organizational growth, maintain strong customer relationships, and promote inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. Her advocacy for gender balance and support for women in leadership, especially in male-dominated fields, has led to her involvement in various boards and councils, earning her national recognition, including the Telstra Businesswomen’s Awards.
Carly’s life quote, “Dream big and Live your dreams,” mirrors her approach to professional and personal life. She sees success as a continual journey of self-improvement, inspiring those around her to embrace challenges and strive for excellence. Her leadership at NRMA Energy not only aims to modernize the industry and enhance economic vitality in regional communities but also to create a more inclusive, diverse, and sustainable future.
Christina Chia
Christina Chia, the Chief Operating Officer at North Shore Coaching College, stands as a paragon of leadership dedicated to social impact and community advancement. Recognized as the Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 by the Australian Council of Multicultural Entrepreneurs and honored by the Victorian Multicultural Commission for her advocacy in multiculturalism and DEI, Christina exemplifies leadership that bridges gaps and fosters inclusivity. Her strategic prowess led to her receiving the Business Excellence Award from the VMC, highlighting her innovative leadership during challenging times, particularly noted for her ability to generate sustainable value amid the Covid economy.
A Malaysian-born Chinese and a multilingual mother of two, Christina seamlessly blends her cultural heritage with her leadership roles, emphasizing customer-centric approaches, inclusivity, and strong cultural values. Her career, spanning over 25 years across education, aged care, and the not-for-profit sector, showcases her commitment to optimizing operational processes, driving growth, and uplifting communities in Australia and Southeast Asia.
Christina’s leadership philosophy centers around empowerment, collaboration, and continual growth, aiming to inspire her team to achieve their best. As a professional speaker and co-founder of the MYC Heart Connectors podcast, she has raised over AUD$380,000 for various causes, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to positive impact and mental health advocacy.
Her life quote, “What we learn keeps us moving forward & allows us to live to our true potential in living our very best life!” reflects her dedication to lifelong learning and her vision of creating a more inclusive and empowering future for female Asian migrants and their communities.
Cindy Slaven
Cindy Slaven, as the Chief Business Development & Marketing Officer at Navantia Australia, plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s growth in the naval sector. With over six years at the helm of marketing and communications, Cindy’s expertise extends to forging strategic partnerships and exploring new business avenues. Her responsibilities encompass not only business development but also managing corporate affairs, government and customer relations, along with overseeing brand and reputation management as a key member of the Executive Committee.
Cindy’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is evident through her leadership of the Environment, Social, and Governance Committee. Her role in this capacity underscores Navantia Australia’s dedication to ethical business practices and environmental stewardship. Additionally, her involvement with the Marintec Steering Committee, in collaboration with the University of Technology Sydney, highlights her contribution to advancing Australia’s maritime sector through sovereign commercial and digital solutions.
Her academic background includes a Graduate Certificate in Communication from Deakin University and a Bachelor of Business in Marketing from Edith Cowan University. Cindy’s skill set is diverse, encompassing customer relationship management, workshop facilitation, strategic thinking, and project delivery. She possesses exceptional interpersonal and networking skills, thriving in environments that require coordination across multidisciplinary and geographically dispersed teams.
Cindy’s life quote, “Every challenge is an opportunity,” reflects her optimistic approach to her work and leadership style. This philosophy drives her to view obstacles as chances for growth and innovation, further solidifying her role as a transformative leader at Navantia Australia.
Denise Tung
Denise Tung, the esteemed Chief Digital Officer at McMillan Shakespeare, is renowned for her forward-thinking approach to digital innovation and customer connectivity. She spearheads a dynamic team specializing in Digital Product, Customer Experience (CX), Design, and Data, all united under the mission of digitally bridging the gap between customers and the company. Denise’s leadership is characterized by her ability to foster cross-functional collaboration, driving her team to deliver digital solutions that enhance customer engagement and operational efficiency.
Before joining McMillan Shakespeare, Denise made significant contributions to several blue-chip organizations, including Qantas, Optus, and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA). Her tenure in these companies is marked by notable successes in implementing strategies that have materially benefited both customers and the businesses themselves. Her expertise spans Business Transformation, Agile Ways of Working, and the application of the Digital Value Framework (DVF) towards promoting digital adoption, showcasing her comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape and her ability to navigate it effectively.
Denise’s philosophy, “Progress and People over Perfection,” underscores her leadership style and strategic priorities. This mantra reflects her focus on continuous improvement and the value she places on her team’s growth and development over chasing unattainable ideals. Under Denise’s guidance, McMillan Shakespeare is poised to continue its trajectory of digital innovation, leveraging her extensive experience and customer-centric approach to drive the company forward in an increasingly digital world.
Felicity Grey
Felicity Grey is an innovative entrepreneur at the helm of two groundbreaking ventures: Theory Crew, a modern full-service PR agency, and RISER, a pioneering micro-influencer platform that stands as a first in the market. Both of Felicity’s ventures are dedicated to transforming the way lifestyle brands engage with public relations, social media, and influencer marketing, employing a creative and impactful approach to breathe life into brands.
Under Felicity’s visionary leadership, Theory Crew has forged successful partnerships with an impressive roster of Australian and global brands, including Ferrero Rocher, iRobot, Biscoff, Bulla, Avene, and Honeywell. These collaborations underscore her agency’s commitment to elevating brand narratives with significant impact.
RISER, Felicity’s latest venture, has quickly established itself as a dynamic force in the influencer marketing sphere. Within its inaugural year, RISER has executed over 100 campaigns for renowned lifestyle brands, generating an astounding 30,000 pieces of social media content. This achievement not only highlights the platform’s efficacy and appeal but also Felicity’s knack for identifying and filling gaps in the market with innovative solutions.
Felicity’s business mantra, “Fail to plan, plan to fail,” reflects her strategic foresight and meticulous approach to business planning and execution. This philosophy has been a guiding principle in her career, underpinning her success in navigating the complex and ever-evolving landscape of PR and influencer marketing.
As the Founder and Managing Director of Theory Crew and RISER, Felicity Grey continues to set new standards in the industry, championing creativity, innovation, and strategic growth for lifestyle brands looking to make a lasting impact.
Ghislaine Entwisle
Ghislaine Entwisle is a distinguished Managing Director at Protiviti, where her fervor for technology and executive management consultancy has made significant strides in enhancing customer value, stakeholder engagement, and shareholder returns. With a career spanning over 17 years, Ghislaine applies a holistic approach that integrates strategic planning, operational efficiency, risk mitigation, and technological innovation. Her expertise is notably profound in areas such as Digital Transformation, Technology Risk Management, Security & Privacy, and Data Governance.
Having offered a spectrum of advisory and assurance services to an array of international and local clients, Ghislaine’s consulting prowess is not confined by geographical boundaries, encompassing APAC, the UK, and Australia. Her vast experience extends across various industries and sectors, demonstrating her versatile capability to navigate both the public and private sectors with equal adeptness.
Ghislaine’s guiding principle, “Follow your passion, grow people, keep curious,” mirrors her professional journey and leadership style. This mantra not only underscores her dedication to pursuing her technological interests but also highlights her commitment to nurturing talent and maintaining a perpetual quest for knowledge.
At Protiviti, Ghislaine continues to leverage her unique blend of skills to drive forward-thinking solutions that address complex challenges in the realm of technology and risk management. Her leadership not only propels Protiviti to new heights but also cements her status as a visionary in the consulting industry, dedicated to creating substantial, positive change.
Dr. Grace Ng
Dr. Grace Ng, the CEO of Gyrilla Group, is an esteemed figure in the world of business consulting, known for her expertise in advising, mentoring, and investing in scaleups and fast-growth companies. With a keen eye for strategy and operational excellence, Dr. Ng has been instrumental in steering numerous businesses toward success, leveraging her vast experience to provide invaluable insights into strategy development and operational consulting.
Under her guidance, Gyrilla Group has become synonymous with transformative growth, helping companies not only to navigate the challenges of scaling but also to seize opportunities for expansion and innovation. Dr. Ng’s approach is deeply rooted in the principle of “Trust, but verify,” reflecting her belief in the importance of building relationships based on trust while also emphasizing the necessity of rigorous verification to ensure outcomes meet the highest standards of excellence.
Her work extends beyond traditional consulting, as Dr. Ng actively engages in mentorship, empowering business leaders and entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in competitive markets. Her commitment to investment in promising ventures further highlights her dedication to fostering an ecosystem where fast-growth companies can flourish.
Dr. Grace Ng’s profile is marked by her exceptional ability to blend strategic insight with practical solutions, making her an invaluable asset to any business aiming for rapid growth and scalability. Through Gyrilla Group, she continues to make a significant impact on the business landscape, championing innovation, and driving companies towards achieving their full potential.
Justine Fardell
Justine Fardell, with over 23 years of seasoned expertise, has carved a niche as a strategic communications specialist, currently excelling as the Executive Producer at Screencraft Media Pty Ltd. Her comprehensive career is distinguished by her proficiency in developing and implementing sophisticated corporate communications strategies and content. Justine’s diverse portfolio spans several critical sectors, including defence, national security, financial services, health, construction, the not-for-profit sector, and various government departments, showcasing her versatility and ability to navigate complex communication challenges across a broad spectrum of industries.
Her approach to communications is rooted in a deep understanding of the unique needs of each sector, enabling her to craft tailored strategies that resonate with target audiences and achieve desired outcomes. Justine’s work is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, a creative flair for storytelling, and an unwavering commitment to delivering excellence in every project she undertakes.
Justine’s life quote, “Be diligent in the small things to excel in the big things,” encapsulates her professional ethos and approach to her work. This philosophy underscores the importance she places on integrity, attention to detail, and the cumulative impact of consistent efforts in achieving significant successes. It is this dedication to diligence and excellence in all aspects of her work that has enabled her to build a reputable career and contribute meaningfully to the communications landscape.
At Screencraft Media Pty Ltd, Justine continues to leverage her extensive experience and strategic insights to lead her team in producing impactful communications solutions that not only meet but exceed client expectations, further solidifying her status as a pivotal figure in the field of strategic corporate communications.
Karen Kim
Karen Kim, with her vast 30 years of experience spanning business, music education, media, and events, has established herself as a pioneering force in the music education sector through her ventures, Hello Music Studios and Hello Music World. As the founder and director, Karen’s vision for Hello Music World is to foster a sustainable music education industry that leverages the power of music for social impact. Her commitment to using music as a tool for change is reflected in her life quote, “Music can change the world because it changes people,” embodying her belief in the transformative power of music.
In her role as the president of the Victorian Chapter of KOWIN (Korean Women’s International Network), Karen champions intercultural collaborations and addresses issues pertinent to Korean women. KOWIN, established by the South Korean government in 2001, serves as a platform for women leaders of Korean descent to connect and empower one another on a global scale.
Karen’s passion extends beyond music and cultural advocacy; she is actively involved as a board member and executive director in several multicultural, business, and internationally focused organizations. Her leadership is characterized by a purpose-driven approach to projects, especially in promoting the arts and empowering future leaders.
Through her multifaceted career, Karen Kim not only contributes to the cultural and educational landscape but also inspires a new generation to harness the arts for societal betterment and personal growth. Her work across various platforms showcases her dedication to creating meaningful change and fostering leadership in diverse communities.
Koon Lai
Koon Lai is a distinguished executive coach and leadership consultant with an impressive track record spanning over 20 years at one of the world’s largest consulting firms. Her influence extends beyond her immediate professional circle, as evidenced by her robust following of over 30,000 people globally on LinkedIn, where she shares her insights and thought leadership. Koon has played a pivotal role in empowering Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) leaders, guiding them to overcome systemic and institutional barriers to ascend to senior leadership positions. Her work in this area is not just about individual success; it’s about fostering diversity and inclusion at the highest levels of corporate leadership.
Originally from Malaysia, Koon embodies the success story of an international student who has made significant strides in her adopted country. Her academic journey in Australia culminated in a double degree in Commerce and Law from the prestigious University of Melbourne, laying a solid foundation for her illustrious career.
As an Executive & Leadership Coach at SKL Global, Koon harnesses her extensive experience and personal journey to inspire and develop the next generation of leaders. Her life quote, “The next generation must be better than the generation before,” encapsulates her commitment to continuous improvement and her belief in the potential for growth and excellence in every individual.
Koon Lai’s journey from an international student to a celebrated executive coach and thought leader is a testament to her resilience, expertise, and dedication to making a difference in the lives of leaders around the globe.
Laura Cowell
Laura Cowell, as the CEO of Tender Loving Care (TLC) Australia, has revolutionised the organisation with her visionary leadership, setting a new standard for compassionate and innovative care in the industry. Her multifaceted career is marked by her roles as a respected Local Government Councillor, a passionate Rare Disease Advocate, and an Innovative Board Director, showcasing her commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.
Laura’s dedication to empowering individuals extends beyond her professional responsibilities. She is deeply committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities, fostering a culture of inclusivity, and promoting accessibility within the community and workplace. Her approach to leadership is centered on creating meaningful change, driving forward initiatives that ensure equality and accessibility for all, regardless of their background or challenges they face.
Her life quote, “Life’s short so live it with kindness,” encapsulates her philosophy and influences her actions and decisions, both professionally and personally. This ethos is reflected in her relentless pursuit of creating a more inclusive society, where compassion and innovation go hand in hand to improve the quality of life for those she serves.
Under Laura’s guidance, TLC Australia has not only become a beacon of excellence in care but also an example of how organisations can lead with empathy and innovation. Her insights and dedication to championing community values have not only transformed TLC but also contributed significantly to raising standards across the care industry, making Laura Cowell a true pioneer in her field.
Liana Dubois
Liana Dubois is a seasoned Chief Marketing Officer at Nine, boasting over 20 years of experience in scaling businesses through innovative marketing strategies. Her consumer-centric approach and belief in the transformative power of creativity have been pivotal in reshaping the way businesses connect with their audiences. For Liana, media isn’t just a sector; it’s her realm of influence, where marketing becomes an art form, creativity serves as the driving force, and achieving growth is the paramount goal.
Her career is distinguished by a dedication to leveraging creativity not only as a means to captivate and engage but also as a strategic tool to significantly alter the business landscape in favor of growth. Liana’s expertise lies in her ability to blend the dynamism of media with the precision of marketing, ensuring that every campaign not only resonates with consumers but also drives the business forward.
Liana’s life quote, “Growth is everything,” perfectly encapsulates her professional ethos and reflects her relentless pursuit of expansion and improvement. It’s this growth-centric mindset that has led her to pioneer marketing practices that are not only innovative but also immensely effective in fostering business development and brand recognition.
At Nine, Liana continues to push the boundaries of traditional marketing, employing her vast experience and creative prowess to steer the company towards unprecedented levels of success. Her approach to marketing—as a craft powered by creativity—has not only enriched her career but also made her an indispensable asset to Nine, driving growth and setting new benchmarks in the industry.
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Libby Roberts
Libby Roberts is a pioneering Rehabilitation Specialist and an influential leader in the Insurtech sector, currently serving as the CEO of LeapForward AI. With a visionary approach, Libby is at the forefront of revolutionizing the personal injury landscape, leveraging cutting-edge technology to expedite recovery processes and enhance patient outcomes. Her mission extends beyond just rehabilitation; it’s about transforming the way individuals receive care after injury, ensuring they not only recover faster but also regain their quality of life with dignity and efficiency.
Her life quote, “Using technology to empower individuals to thrive and communities to flourish,” encapsulates her profound belief in the power of innovation to bring about positive change. Under her leadership, LeapForward AI is dedicated to developing solutions that are not just technologically advanced but also deeply human-centric, focusing on the empowerment of individuals through their recovery journey.
Libby’s work is characterized by her commitment to integrating technology into healthcare in a way that is accessible, intuitive, and supportive of both physical and mental health. By doing so, she is setting new standards in the Insurtech industry, advocating for a future where technology and healthcare converge to create more resilient communities.
At the core of Libby’s philosophy is the conviction that technology should serve humanity, enhancing our ability to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Through her leadership at LeapForward AI, Libby Roberts is not just changing the face of rehabilitation; she’s redefining what’s possible in healthcare, making a lasting impact on individuals and communities worldwide.
Lisa Teh
Lisa Teh is a digital maven with an insatiable appetite for all things related to the digital world. Her latest venture, Mooning, reflects her deep dive into the Web3 space, aiming to assist brands in navigating and thriving within this new internet era. As the founder of the CODI Agency, Lisa has carved a niche in digital marketing, specializing in social media management, content creation, and influencer campaigns. Her expertise and innovative strategies have led to successful collaborations with global giants such as Uber Eats, Lenovo, and L’Oréal.
In addition to her achievements in digital marketing, Lisa is a pioneer in the blockchain sector as the co-founder of CX3. This loyalty platform leverages blockchain technology to foster hyper-engaged brand communities and customer loyalty. Her entrepreneurial spirit also led her to create 101 Lifestyle, a natural toothpaste brand that has found its place in MECCA, Australia’s premier beauty retailer.
Lisa’s contributions to the Australian style and beauty landscape are further highlighted through her co-authorship of the best-selling books “Australian Style” and “Australian Beauty.” Her influence and innovative contributions to the digital and beauty industries were recognized when she was named among the 40 under 40 most influential Australians in 2021.
Living by the motto, “If you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not growing,” Lisa embodies the spirit of continuous personal and professional development. This philosophy drives her to explore uncharted territories in the digital realm and beyond, making her a true visionary in every venture she undertakes.
Ludwina Dautovic
Ludwina Dautovic, as the CEO and founder of The Room Xchange, is at the forefront of revolutionizing the Australian housing landscape. Her visionary platform leverages the untapped potential of the 13.5 million unused bedrooms across the country, transforming them into valuable assets for homeowners and providing much-needed housing solutions. Ludwina’s mission to access just 1% of these dormant spaces aims to create additional income opportunities for homeowners and offer affordable, accessible housing options for individuals struggling to find rental properties in a tight market.
Amid rising interest rate hikes, The Room Xchange is a beacon of hope for homeowners striving to retain their properties by offering a novel way to generate extra income. For those facing the challenges of a limited rental supply, Ludwina’s initiative opens the doors to stable and harmonious living situations, facilitated by mandatory ID verification and profile matching processes that ensure compatibility and security for all parties involved.
This innovative housing model has not only provided practical solutions to pressing societal issues but has also earned widespread acclaim, securing major accolades such as awards from the Proptech Association Australia and the Wyndham Business Awards. Ludwina’s life quote, “Just say ‘yes’ and figure it out later,” encapsulates her entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to embrace challenges, driving her to create a disruptive yet highly beneficial service in The Room Xchange. Her work is a testament to the power of innovation in addressing complex problems, making her a trailblazer in the property technology sector.
Saifon Chitdee
Saifon Chitdee, the Founder and CEO of MAJESTY AI, is at the forefront of revolutionizing how brands and consumers interact through the introduction of a digital assistant powered by cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing capabilities. This digital assistant is poised to redefine the landscape of information and data sharing, serving as a pivotal bridge between humans and the digital world. It promises a future where everything is interconnected, from connected cars and hotel rooms to cafes, retailers, airlines, space explorations, and other smart applications.
The vision behind MAJESTY AI’s digital assistant goes beyond mere functionality; it aims to create a seamless, intuitive experience that understands and remembers users’ preferences, manages their diaries, and engages in meaningful conversations. This level of personalization and interaction heralds a new era of smart applications that are not only responsive but also predictive of users’ needs and desires.
Saifon’s life quote, “In a world where you can be anything, be kind,” reflects the ethos of MAJESTY AI. It underscores a commitment to developing technology that not only advances human convenience and connectivity but does so with a consideration for kindness and positive impact on users’ lives. Under Saifon’s leadership, MAJESTY AI is not just creating a product but is fostering a more connected, efficient, and empathetic digital ecosystem for the future.
Sarah Petty
Sarah Petty is a distinguished CFO and an influential figure in the finance sector, known for her leadership prowess and extensive experience managing large teams across key financial disciplines. Her expertise spans accounting, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), strategic planning, and commercial finance, making her a pivotal asset to Buzz Products as their Chief Financial Officer. In this role, Sarah oversees the Finance, Planning, and IT functions, ensuring operational excellence and strategic growth.
Beyond her responsibilities at Buzz, Sarah extends her expertise as an Advisory Board Member for Deakin University’s Accounting Department and as a Non-Executive Director and Treasurer for Gasworks Arts Park. Her commitment to fostering talent and nurturing a culture of trust and authenticity within her teams highlights her leadership philosophy.
Sarah’s career has seen her work with top-tier multinational and ASX-listed companies in Australia and Asia, equipping her with a profound understanding of both local and global markets. Her tenure in Singapore, focusing on Asia and Africa’s emerging markets, has endowed her with a valuable international perspective, enabling her to navigate the complexities of diverse economic environments.
A passionate advocate for leadership development, Sarah frequently shares her insights as a panellist, presenter, and keynote speaker at industry events, empowering emerging leaders to excel. Her life quote from Brene Brown, “Lean into vulnerability, dare greatly, embrace uncertainty, live wholeheartedly,” encapsulates her approach to both professional challenges and personal growth, inspiring those around her to pursue excellence with courage and authenticity.
Shamane Tan
Shamane Tan is a trailblazing influencer in the cybersecurity domain, renowned for her ability to bridge the gap between C-Suite executives and cybersecurity essentials. As the acclaimed author of “Cyber Risk Leaders,” she expertly navigates the complexities of executive communication and sets clear expectations for the C-Suite. Her contributions to the field include “Cyber Mayday and the Day After,” offering a blueprint for crisis management through insights from global executives. Additionally, her latest publication, “Building a Cyber Resilience: A Cyber Handbook for Executives and Boards,” has earned accolades, including a feature on Forbes Australia’s list of top books for CEOs.
Shamane’s influence extends beyond her written work; she has established a transcontinental cyber risk and executive meetup across cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Singapore, the Philippines, and Tokyo. These meetups are pivotal in promoting mentorship, women’s empowerment, and thought leadership within the cybersecurity community.
A compelling speaker, Shamane has graced the stages of TEDx, global conferences, and Fortune 500 companies, advocating for the power of voice and empowering others to find theirs. Her recognition as an IFSEC Global Top 20 Cybersecurity Influencer and one of the 40 under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australians underscores her impact on the industry.
Currently serving as the Chief Growth Officer at Sekuro, Shamane Tan combines her technical knowledge and business savvy to guide organizations towards enhanced security maturity. Living by the motto, “We should always be our loudest cheerleader,” she embodies self-empowerment, inspiring professionals to confidently navigate their cybersecurity journey.
Sue Langley
Sue Langley stands out as a luminary in the fields of positive leadership, neuroscience, and emotional intelligence. Her expertise is not just theoretical; Sue excels in translating complex scientific concepts into accessible, practical tools that can transform the workplace and enhance personal effectiveness. As the CEO and Founder of the Langley Group, she has empowered thousands of business leaders, coaches, and consultants worldwide with strategies to foster positive work environments and maximize cognitive potential.
Sue’s pioneering work extends to her role as Academic Director of the Langley Group Institute, where she launched the world’s first nationally recognized Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing, setting a new standard in the field. With a Masters in Neuroscience of Leadership, her academic credentials are as impressive as her practical achievements.
Her influence has reached a wide audience through media, including her role as a featured expert in the ABC TV series “Redesign My Brain” and the award-winning documentary “Make Me a Leader,” further showcasing her commitment to bringing positive change to individuals and organizations alike.
Sue lives by the motto, “Treat yourself as a scientific experiment,” a reflection of her belief in the power of self-exploration and continual learning. This approach has not only shaped her career but also inspires others to embrace growth and development with curiosity and resilience. Sue Langley’s contributions to positive psychology and leadership continue to make a significant impact, inspiring a wave of positive transformation across the globe.
Tiffany Ashdown
Tiffany Ashdown is a seasoned leader known for her strategic insight and operational acumen, qualities that she brings to every company she collaborates with. Her entrepreneurial journey includes co-founding Symphona, a company she led until 2023, showcasing her ability to build and guide a business from the ground up. Tiffany’s leadership at Symphona was marked by her commitment to innovation and excellence, laying a solid foundation for her next venture.
Currently, Tiffany serves as the COO and co-founder of The Product Bus, where her expertise continues to drive the company forward. Her role at The Product Bus involves overseeing the operational strategies that underpin the company’s success, ensuring that every project aligns with the broader vision and goals. Tiffany’s leadership style is characterized by a focus on efficiency, creativity, and fostering a culture of collaboration and growth within her team.
Tiffany’s life quote, “Don’t forget to honour today, in light of where you are headed,” reflects her philosophy of maintaining a balance between present actions and future aspirations. This mindset underscores the importance of valuing the present moment and the progress made thus far, while also staying focused on long-term goals and visions for the future.
With her blend of experience, strategic thinking, and operational expertise, Tiffany Ashdown is a pivotal figure at The Product Bus. Her ability to navigate the complexities of business operations while inspiring her team to achieve their best exemplifies her role as a transformative leader in the industry.
These winners exemplify what it means to lead with courage, innovate with purpose, and challenge the status quo. Their stories are not just narratives of personal success but blueprints for aspiring businesswomen everywhere. They remind us of the power of ambition, the importance of resilience, and the impact of visionary leadership.
As we celebrate these outstanding achievements, we also look forward to the ripple effect they will have on encouraging more women to step forward, take risks, and pursue their dreams in the business world. The Australian Women in Business Excellence Awards is more than an event; it’s a platform that highlights the significant contributions of women to our economy and society, inspiring a new generation of leaders.
Congratulations to all our winners! Your journeys inspire us, and your achievements light the way for future generations. We are excited to continue sharing more stories of success and innovation from the vibrant world of women in business. Here’s to celebrating today’s achievements and inspiring tomorrow’s success.