Career Close Ups

How did you get into your role?

My career really started to take off in 2014. I promised myself that I would never say no to an opportunity, no matter how much it scared me. I figured the more I was nervous about giving it a go, the more I needed to push myself to do it. I have been very lucky to land some very interesting jobs in Disaster Management, Training, Project Management and of course my most recent roles have been Management positions. My advice to anyone looking to progress in their careers, never say no to an opportunity to grow.

How are you connected to the College for Adult Learning?

I am currently studying the Double Diploma of HR and Leadership & Management. My role is very demanding at work and as I have two young boys under 3, juggling study and always will be a challenge.

What ideal job position are you qualifying yourself for?

For me, it really is an opportunity to certify the experience I have gained through my working career. As an Executive Manager (without a University Degree), I have already defied all logic in some people's minds.

How have your studies helped you progress in your career?

Gaining the Diploma will help my next steps into Bachelor level studies once my boys are a little bit older. I have a keen interest in studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science. Human behaviour has always interested me.

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

An energetic and fun workplace. I am really big on People and Culture. I always look at ways to invigorate the workplace. I have always said, people don't leave jobs, they leave leaders. I spend a lot of time caring for my team whom I expect will do the same for theirs and so on. I find the overall return on investment in my people shows by the way they perform and the dedication to the people to the left and right of them. A successful day for me is knowing I am doing everything I can to ensure my people are my priority.

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

It might sound weird, but the best advice I ever got was from a mentor I look up to very much, who helped me earlier in my career. "Play the game," he would always say to me. It wasn't until years later I actually started to reflect on what that meant. Some companies and cultures can be political minefields, you have to know when to speak and when not to, when to act and when not to. I really struggled in the workplace when I saw something that ethically or morally didn't sit right with me, so I was always quick to jump and express my outrage. I learnt over time to "play the game". Be tactful, be elegant and learn how to navigate the workplace with finesse.

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

The not-for-profit industry always looks for people who genuinely care for others. Empathy, compassion, and a real sense of duty and service to the betterment of others. My advice is to pick an agency or service you are passionate about and go for it. I worked for a crisis support and suicide prevention NFP organisation as the State Manager for Community Recovery in Queensland. It was one of the most rewarding times of my career. I could have easily stayed in that role for a very long time. However, as I said earlier, I never say no to an opportunity to grow.

What is your current job position, and how did you get into your role?

"My current role is as a Compliance Officer. My journey began 9 years ago when I first stepped into a multi-national company in Dubai as a Quality Coordinator. This is the place where I realised the significance of Quality and how it impacts not only our professional life but also personal life. After doing various courses in internal auditing and Lead Auditor Quality Management System (QMS) Training in Dubai, I moved to South Australia in August 2019. Here I eventually found myself working as a Compliance Officer for an RTO."

How have your studies helped your career?

"I am enrolled in the Diploma of Quality Auditing. Without education there is no progression in life, and education is an ongoing process. With a Master’s degree in business management, specialisation in internal auditing and ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems lead auditor training, I was able to gain the required insight into the field of QMS auditing and compliance. The quest for learning more in this field of study has now made me enrol myself in a CAL course so I can enhance my learning further, and then put the same knowledge into practice."

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

"There is nothing free in life – only hard work can help you achieve your goals."

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

"Writing policies and procedures followed by formulating simple work instructions for the staff and then getting those procedures successfully implemented makes my day. Framing policies and procedures is a collaborative process and once successfully completed it gives a sense of achievement."

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

Quality is a beautiful phenomenon. Once applied, it has the capability to convert a messy pile of policies and procedures into a simple Quality Management System. To get involved in this profession it is essential to gain the vocational competency first. This is possible by extensive reading, which may begin by gaining familiarisation with ISO standards, and then understanding statutory standards and how to comply with them. Institutions like CAL can assist in getting the right qualification which helps significantly in finding a relevant job.

What is your current job position, and how did you get into your role?

"Project Coordinator. I completed my Diploma in Architecture in Nepal and worked as Draftsman & site supervisor for 4.5 years. I worked as nurse in different health facilities when I first moved to Australia. I was working at Blacktown Hospital when the opportunity as a Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (FFE) support officer at Blacktown Hospital Redevelopment. This was a perfect role for me where I could marry my experiences in health, design and construction. After successful completion of expansion project at Blacktown Hospital I was given opportunity to move in to an even bigger project Westmead Health Precinct as project coordinator within same local health district."

How have your studies helped your career?

"I am currently enrolled in Project Management and Leadership Management. My studies with CAL has helped me gain skills and qualifications required for the role of project coordinator. My ideal job position I am qualifying myself for is Project Manager and/or Project Director."

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

"Always prepare your case and investigate before you present, and/or execute a task. "

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

"When I am able to bring multiple stakeholders to an agreement."

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

"Never work on the basis of assumption, always check/confirm twice. Some extra time spent beforehand could save everyone time, money and effort in future. Networking is the key to all gateways. Always work and present with evidence and support."

What is your current job position, and how did you get into your role?

"My current job position is as an Interior Designer in my own business. I have worked in the design industry for many years on and off and so decided to obtain my Diploma of Interior Design and Decoration, I love all things design and construction."

How have your studies helped your career?

"I am currently doing a Double Diploma in Project Management and Building & Construction. My goal is to go onto project managing in the construction and building industry as I really enjoy the process of planning and seeing a project through to close. "

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

"Always listen and never assume, this applies to not only listening to your clients needs but also trades and suppliers as they usually have the best advice and knowledge."

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

"Every day is different for me, some days are spent with appointments with clients others are ordering supplies for project, budget management and dealing with trades and of course time is always spent designing."

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

" Get some hands on experience first, like many jobs you may not realise the scope of work you need to cover. Interior Designers do a lot more than make spaces look nice, we have adhere to standards and regulations and we need to make sure these space meet the anthropometric needs."

What is your current job position, and how did you get into your role?

"I just moved back to Australia after living 3 years overseas, where I was working in the People & Culture team for a tech start-up. I almost stumbled into my position, which was a junior position - I was initially looking for marketing jobs, as I was really interested in that field. I hadn’t had a huge amount of experience in Human Resources or Recruiting but knew I was good at connecting with people and had some people developmental experience, so it caught my attention. I applied and was successful!"

How have your studies helped your career?

"So far, I am learning real business specifics, which is great. I saw this in action in my job, and now I am learning the “whys” and the theory behind it all."

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

"Two great pieces of advice I try and live by in life and career: “It’s ok to walk away from things not meant for you, everything happens for a reason”, and “Always try and surround yourself with people that will lift you up, bring the best out of you and that you can learn something from”."

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

"Getting things done! My most rewarding days are when I feel like I contributed to the organisation. Whether it be finding a really promising candidate, on-boarding a new group of employees or producing great employee content for our marketing channels. When I can see the benefit it made to the company and its people that’s what really motivates me."

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

"You are never too old. I have had a complete career change at 30. If you are in an industry or job you really hate, it’s not too late to make a change. I would recommend getting some hands-on experience as I did. You can then take it further and study once you know it’s right for you!"

What is your current job position, and how did you get into your role?

"I have had a long career in Community Services providing direct front line support to disadvantaged populations. I decided I wanted to have a bigger impact. Being recognised in my industry as a passionate and driven person I was encouraged by peers to utilise those skills and started promoting workplace health. In November 2019 I launched my own business - My Next Step. I work with individuals who are key decision-makers in their industry, to promote healthy workspaces through workshops and personal coaching programs.

I got into my role through education! Learning is key to personal development and that is what my business is all about. I enrolled into the Double Diploma of Business (Leadership) (BSB50120) + Leadership & Management (BSB50420). I have also furthered my education by enrolling into a Masters of Life Coaching where I am studying towards gaining my international accreditation."

How have your studies helped your career?

"I have gained the knowledge and confidence to really launch myself into turning my dreams into a reality. I have built awareness around who I am and what my message is. I have developed incredibly meaningful connections which have opened up many new opportunities. The courses have not only provided the knowledge I required to feel confident in launching a business, but also the confidence to put myself out there. I now have a podcast, send out a weekly newsletter, have been invited as a Keynote speaker at multiple events, and I am about to launch Wellness cruises."

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

"You are your number one priority. By caring for yourself others will always get the best version of you."

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

"I maintain a healthy morning routine to set myself up for the day. The day is broken up into tasks and allows time for future projects. I walk away knowing I achieved what I wanted to, and can’t wait to get stuck into the next day."

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

"Start now! Give value, don’t push. Build your name and let people know who you are. Find your passion! Find your purpose! Be unique! Love what you do and you will never work another day in your life."

What is your current job position, and how did you get into your role?

"CRM Operations Manager at a University. I worked in government roles for many years before moving towns and found myself working at a university. The CRM system fascinated me and I was fortunate enough to be appointed to the role which I love. I have a brilliant team who are great at their jobs."

How have your studies helped your career?

"This course will be extraordinarily beneficial for me in my current position. We are continually working on projects and liaising with multiple business areas, and I’m hoping this course will provide me with the tools and confidence to successfully lead a project."

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

"I’m recollecting two pieces of advice. Always be humble and kind. Such simple advice, yet so important and impactful. The other is to lead by example and always be willing to get in and help to get a task completed."

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

"Achieving outcomes while keeping our students and staff happy is a goal for every day, however, a larger goal for me personally is to know my team feel valued in their efforts and they are achieving their goals. I also spend a great deal of time negotiating with colleagues on delivery and outcomes and trying to find solutions to challenges."

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

"Universities are fascinating, dynamic and challenging organisations. Do your best every day, be kind and look for opportunities. They are out there waiting for you!"

How did you get into your role?

I started my career in management roles [in retail] and from there I had a lot of great mentors who saw how passionate I was about training and developing the team. I was offered a role as a Learning and Development Manager for South Australia and took on a dual role of State Recruiter as well. After a few years I wanted to develop myself further so I took on different roles in Retail from Regional Manager to State Manager. It was then that my passion for training and recruitment was reignited, and I took on a role as the People Development Manager (HR) for one of South Australia's largest privately owned companies. This was my first real insight into the different roles that HR plays within an organisation, which then sparked a passion for other areas of HR. Late last year, I decided it was time to commence my HR studies and found a great opportunity as a People and Culture Advisor.

How are you connected to the College for Adult Learning?

I commenced my Double Diploma of Human Resources and Leadership & Management [in 2018]

What ideal job position are you qualifying yourself for?

For me I would like to progress in my HR career and hopefully one day become a People and Culture Business Partner, then Head of People and Culture.

How have your studies helped you progress in your career?

Since I have not completed my study yet, I believe completing this will be beneficial for my career progression. However, the learning so far has helped me with my current job.

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

Over the past few months recruitment has been my primary role. A successful day is finding the best candidate who meets the requirements but also has the right values - and can add value to our organisation. It's about ensuring that I am delivering the best candidate experience and to make sure they have a positive experience regardless of the outcome. It's about redefining the processes along the way to reach my KPI's and objectives. The goal is become an employer of choice.

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

There are 2 great pieces of advice I have received:

Avoid being paralysed by fear. Have a path but be flexible.

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

I feel I had a great transition into HR as I came from management roles - these gave me the opportunity to enhance my skills and work with HR professionals. These roles also gave me an insight into what they do, deal with, how to recruit, train and develop employees, and manage poor performance and counselling. My other bit of advice is to start networking with people in the industry.

What is your current job position, and how did you get into your role?

"I am the site manager for the construction of a sand pumping station and pipeline to replenish a beach in Hawks Nest suffering from severe erosion, which is threatening a road and houses. I got into my role because I was in the right place at the right time! I was finishing up another project, and was offered my current project instead of taking on another I had been discussing with the company."

How have your studies helped your career?

"I am early in my training, but I am already gaining a better understanding of the different stages we progress through in the life of the project."

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

"You don't have to know everything about everything at the start, just get going and things will unfold."

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

"When I can look at the project and see progress. Most days that's physical progress on the ground, but progress is also crossing things off the list - getting prices back on supply, ordering gear, booking trades, getting QA docs together and updating the program."

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

"Work out what field or specialty you want to work in, find out who is doing it really well and write to them. Don't wait for them to advertise. Persevere and follow up."

What is your current job position, and how did you get into your role?

"I am a Talent Acquisition Consultant. I sort of “fell” into recruitment while studying my law degree and have never looked back. It was in my first job as a Recruitment Consultant in South Africa, where jobs are scarce that I found my passion for people. Being able to find a job for someone in a country where there is a terrible job shortage gave me immense joy and fulfilment. I have now moved into an internal role as a Talent Acquisition Consultant working within an innovative and collaborative HR Team and for one of the world’s best Global Construction companies. I am able to pursue my passion in finding the best people for our business, people whose values align with our own."

How have your studies helped your career?

"My studies are giving me the ability to add immediate value to my role and my team. It is also teaching me different ways of thinking about situations and approaches to situations."

What is the best piece of advice you have received in your career?

"You don’t own the world’s problems. Things happen in life, and sometimes things don’t work out. As long as you can say you have done your best then that is good enough."

What does a successful day in your work life look like?

"This varies as no two days in recruitment are the same. Being able to effectively manage my workload and also handle any curve balls that get thrown my way. There is a lot of problem solving in my role, so a successful day for me would be where both my candidates and hiring managers are informed, up to date, feel that they are a priority, and have a positive experience."

What is some advice you would give to someone wanting to get into your industry?

"Anything in life is possible. Once you know what you want as a next step in your career don’t give up. Take the initiative and have confidence in yourself. Always personalise your approaches to people because nothing beats authenticity. There are always different ways to get into an industry, but the most important thing is being willing to learn, and being open to different/new ways of doing things."