Shows
Take on BoardTake on Board x Not in My Workplace - Boardroom Leadership & Preventing Workplace Harassment with Helga SvendsenToday, on the Take On Board Podcast, we have a special crossover episode. Rosie Wheen, host of the podcast Not in My Workplace, invited me for an interview. Not in My Workplace is a series that aims to be a resource for you and your workplace to become safer, more respectful, and more inclusive. Conversations will focus on how we can prevent and respond to sexual harassment in the workplace.____How can boards act as coaches who work with executives? How do you nail a curious question that shines new insights on workplace safety around...2025-04-2929 minTake on BoardTake on Board x Lead to Soar - How Women Can Build & Demonstrate Strategic Acumen with Helga SvendsenIn this special Take on Board x Lead to Soar cross over episode, I was the guest on the Lead to Soar podcast and was interviewed by Michelle Redfern. She invited me to discuss strategy. My conversation with Michelle was part of the Lead to Soar - "How Women Can" web series.Do you know what strategy is?Do you know why strategy is set?Do you know why boards are interested in strategy?Can you describe the relationship between strategy and business outcomes?Being able to answer...2023-06-0630 minTake on BoardOn Air strategy session - Helga helps Megan Bett take her first steps towards getting on a boardToday on the Take on Board podcast, we are doing another on-air strategy session. I'm speaking with Megan Bett. But before I do that, a quick shout out to Jackie Cooper, who recommended that Megan come on the show and explore her challenge for today.Megan is an HR professional, most recently conducting workplace investigations, the tough stuff in HR. She is interested in all things to do with people and the way our minds work. She works for her local council, and has been there for over 11 years. She is exploring taking on more of a leadership role...2022-02-2235 minTake on BoardIt's time to RSVP: Reflections on 2021 and goals for 2022Welcome to the final episode of Take on Board for 2021.And what a year it’s been.In this episode, Helga is going to take you through her ‘RSVP’ process – an invitation to reflect on the year and set intentions for 2022. And you know what - this year has been tough.We do this in the final session of Board Accelerator – my program for women board members. So at the end of this episode, you’ll hear some of the reflections from the group.So, what’s the RSVP formula? Listen now to find out.And we want to...2021-12-2121 minTake on BoardCo-CEO Amanda Robinson on what works, what doesn't and how boards can helpToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking with Amanda Robinson about being a co-CEO. You’ll remember that Helga shared her top tips along with her personal experiences about co-chairing a board.Well that episode, prompted the fabulous Dominique Hes to introduce me to Amanda … and here we are.Amanda is a co-CEO at Marshall Day Acoustics, and looks after the Australian operations, including China and Hong Kong. She is a qualified mechanical engineer who has worked in the acoustics field for over 20 years. She has a passion for delivering high quality acoustic spaces in the...2021-11-2324 minTake on BoardPractical ways to get ethics on your board agenda: Cris Parker has ideasToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga has brought Cris Parker back for another interview. Last week they discussed Cris’ work with the Ethics Centre and the service - Ethi-call. But there was still so much more to discuss.Cris graciously agreed to share more time to the Take on Board Community. She and Helga walk through the Banking and Finance Oath - from its origins to who has already signed on and how your board can use it.And what is the Ethics Alliance and how can you use their services? It’s an initiative within the...2021-10-1937 minTake on BoardEthical questions swirling around your head, Cris Parker has a solutionToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking with Cris Parker about the free service that The Ethics Centre runs call Ethi-call.I saw something about it recently on social media and reached out as I think this is a fabulous service for Board members and I wanted to know more – so here we are.Cris has worked at The Ethics Centre for 10 years and head up 2 initiatives - The Ethics Alliance and the Banking and Finance Oath. She is also an ethics counsellor for the free ethics counseling service Ethi-call.This is just the be...2021-10-1231 minTake on BoardTop Tips: Co-chairing a Board - a Case Study with Helga SvendsenToday, Helga is talking co-chairing of boards and committees and you’re just hearing from herShe's been a fan of job-share for years … as long as it’s done well.And Helga thinks some of the principles of good job share could apply to board room roles such as Chairing the board or committees.So, today, get ready, she's going to talk about some principles for co-chairing and then talk you through a live example – when she was co-chair of an organisation - it wasn't perfect, but they did it! So you can learn from what worked w...2021-08-1017 minTake on BoardThe Power of Trust: it's not just the title of Sandra Sucher's latest bookToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking with Sandra Sucher about trust between boards and the people they govern.Sandra is an internationally recognized trust researcher and professor of management practice at Harvard Business School. She studies how organizations build trust and the vital role leaders play in the process. Before joining Harvard, she was a business executive for 20 years, served on corporate and nonprofit boards, and has been Chair of the Better Business Bureau. An advisor to the Edelman Trust Barometer, her research has been featured in several national publications.Sandra is the author...2021-07-2731 minTake on BoardHow to better understand and influence people with Anneli BlundellToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Anneli Blundell about how to influence with impact.Voted as one of YMag’s Top Ten Women to Watch in 2019, Anneli’s passion for decoding people and performance dynamics make her a sought after speaker, mentor and leadership expert.She makes the complex job of understanding why people do what they do (and how to get the best out of them), both accessible and entertaining.Anneli works with leaders to increase their influence, engagement and interpersonal impact for better business results.Oh and guess what?! Helg...2021-06-2931 minTake on BoardReconciliation Week Repodcast: Rethinking the meaning of 'country' and how we can be allies in the board room with Amber RobertsToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga will be speaking with Amber Roberts. It's reconciliation week in Australia this week so we are repodcasting Helga's conversation with Amber, an Aboriginal woman from far north Queensland.Amber is senior manager at PwC Indigenous Consulting, and formerly worked with the Australian Human Rights Commission, Reconciliation Australia and the Diversity Council of Australia.The Take on Board Facebook group asked me to explore two questions. Firstly, whether and how to do an acknowledgement of country at the start of meetings and secondly, to explore board and company capacity to contribute...2021-06-0137 minTake on BoardBeing an Effective Board member with Olympic medalist Margot FosterToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Margot Foster about being an effective board member and just check out this list of experience.Margot is on the boards of:Motorsport Australia,Sports Environment Alliance,Sports Integrity Australia Advisory Council and theOlympians Club of VictoriaShe’s previously been on the boards ofVicsport,Gymnastics Australia,PLC School Council,VicHealth,Australian Sports Commission,Sport New Zealand,Rowing Australia,Rowing Victoria,Melbourne Major Events,Melbourne & Olympic Parks Trust,Melbourne 1996 Olympic Bid Boardand many othersMargot is a lapsed lawyer having run her own practice for more th...2021-05-1828 minTake on BoardWhat is appreciative inquiry and how can your board use it effectively with Repa PatelToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Repa Patel about Board leadership through disruption, using Appreciative Inquiry to engage the hearts and minds of their people and drive exponential growth.Repa is on the Board of, and the former Chair of, Multicultural Cente for Womens Health.She was formerly the Company Secretary to the State Library of Victoria Board.Repa is the author of “Elevate - a new path for leaders to navigate uncertainty”. She is a facilitator, executive coach and former board chair, known for her insightful and compassionately challenging approach and work...2021-05-1132 minTake on BoardProfessional development is always a good idea, the WOBSX program with Denise NorthToday on the Take on Board podcast I’m speaking to Denise North about the Women on Boards SX (WOBSX) program, and also about the current shift in society’s expectations of business.Denise is Chair of the Advisory Board for Catherine Henry Lawyers, Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee for the Australian Society of Orthodontists Inc and Chair of INSEAD Alumni Association Australia & New Zealand Limited and Streetwize Communications LimitedShe has previously been on the External Advisory Committee of Sydney University Dept Government, Commissioner and Chair of Audit and Risk at Australian Fisheries Management Authority and...2021-05-0426 minTake on BoardThat's unexpected! How Elenie Poulos found her own path to the boardroomToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Elenie Poulos about her accidental journey to the boardroom.Elenie is on the boards of Uniting NSW/ACT and ANDI (Australian National Development Index). She was previously on the boards of ACOSS, Act for Peace and the Churches Refugee Taskforce.She has more than 20 years’ experience working in public policy, advocacy and government relations in the not-for-profit sector. She is an ordained minister in the Uniting Church in Australia and has a PhD in Politics.Contact Elenie or find out more about her:https://el...2021-04-2725 minTake on BoardDeciding to list on the ASX during a global pandemic with Deanne WeirToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga’s speaking to Deanne Weir about listing AI-Media during a global pandemic and we’ll also touch on some tips for working with CEOs as Chair.Deanne has a wealth of experience. In fact, her first board was Museums Victoria when she was in her 20s and she’s been on a roll ever since.Here is where you can find her.Commercial:Chair of Ai-Media (ASX code AIM), an ASX listed global provider of speech to text services,Chair of Seer Data & Analytics (tech start up) a technology start...2021-04-2026 minTake on BoardThe 101 on voluntary administration and what you need to know for your boards with Kate ConneelyToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Kate Conneely about voluntary administration, what is it, what it can be used for, and why directors should consider it as part of their governance framework.Kate is a partner at KordaMentha and a registered liquidator. She bring over 13 years’ experience specialising in formal insolvency, restructuring and litigation strategy. In her role as Registered Liquidator, she, in effect, assumes the position of the board on each company to which she is appointed.Kate has a proven track record dealing with small enterprises through to large corporate groups, ac...2021-04-1332 minTake on BoardInsights from the Take on Board Breakfast: Cyber security with Hannah Browne - Part 1Today on Take on Board, Helga shares her conversation with Hannah Brown. This chat was part of the March Take on Board Breakfast event. Hannah joined Helga to present what boards need to know about protecting themselves and their stakeholders from cyber threats.Using the story of Maersk cyber attack, Hannah shares real tips of how to take action about these real risks. One key message - start today!Hannah then fields questions from women who joined the event. There were so many amazing questions, a second podcast with just questions and insightful responses form Hannah will be...2021-04-0638 minTake on BoardOkay, my brain does what now while I'm on a Zoom board meeting. Dr Fiona Kerr explainsToday on the Take on Board podcast Helga is speaking to Fiona Kerr about neuroscience and technology in the boardrooms. She’s particularly interested to talk about AI and how that might impact discussion in the boardroom.Fiona is the Deputy Chair of the Catalyst Foundation. Fiona researches, speaks and consults on a range of topics including the neuroscience of human-human and human-technology interaction, neurogenesis, and how good leaders create organisations that flourish. Her interest in the science and power of human connectivity has developed over more than 30 years working in a variety of sectors in Australia and overseas, en...2021-03-3032 minTake on BoardWhy you should find your 'why' with Trish HansenToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Trish Hansen about purpose, culture, trust and diversity.Trish is on the boards of South Australia Living Artists Festival (SALA) and she established Kindred Australia.She was previously the President of the Australian Institute of Urban Studies, the Interim Chair of All Together Now and Director of the Australian Institute of Patient and Family Centred CareTrish is the Founding Principal of Urban Mind Studio. As a strategist and systems designer in the fields of health, wellbeing, arts and culture, Trish works to enrich the creative...2021-03-2327 minTake on BoardNon-traditional skills do have a place in the boardroom says Cheryl HaymanToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Cheryl Hayman about non-traditional skills and what directors with these bring and why are they needed for great governance and board effectiveness.Cheryl is on the boards of:Shriro Holdings Ltd,HGL Ltd,Chartered Accountants ANZ,Darlinghurst Theatre Co,Peer Support Australia and amember of the Digital Experts Advisory Committee and a HCF Councillor.Cheryl Hayman is an experienced ASX Non-Executive Director (NED), ASX Remuneration and Nominations Committee Chair, and was previously a c-Suite marketing director with global food and retail restaurant companies, including George Weston Foods...2021-03-1629 minTake on BoardAICD Australian Governance Summit 2021 recap with HelgaToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga recaps the Australian Institute of Company Directors conference.So here is what Helga heard during the two-day conference peppered with some of her thoughts on topics that were raised and things for you to think about - it was jam packed.You might also want to have a look at Helga’s Twitter feed (https://twitter.com/helgasvendsen?lang=en) from this period, she live tweeted most of the sessions that she attended and managed to remember the details.This is her summary and there's more detail onTwitter.Th...2021-03-0944 minTake on BoardNice to meet you, I'm Anne Wiberg and you may have the skills my board needsToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Anne Wiberg about some challenges that not for profit board directors might experience. In particular, we'll explore putting together a skilled board, and she'll also give us some tips and tricks on being a good chair.Anne is the Chair of Music SA, an organisation committed to promoting, supporting and developing contemporary music in South Australia. She is also on the Board of Tutti Arts.She is the Head of Programming at Light Adelaide after freelancing for a number of years, delivering three national AIR Awards, programmed...2021-03-0227 minTake on BoardBoardroom or Directors Club? Looking at board composition with Jessica WallaceToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Jessica Wallace about board composition. They’ll be discussing the key findings of the recent report "Many are called, few are chosen", a study on changes to the composition of ASX 300 boards - focusing on the non-executive pool - from 2006 to today.Jessica is a corporate governance analyst, first in the UK and then joining Ownership Matters in Australia in 2013 where she engages with and prepares research on ASX 300 listed companies.A Ownership Matters they believe that ownership does matter and that shareholders, as the owners of th...2021-02-2327 minTake on BoardMentoring and advisory boards does one beget the other with Leesa ChesserToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Leesa Chesser about AICD chairs mentoring program and why advisory boards are a great way to build your portfolio career.Leesa is a Non-Executive Director, and mentor who builds and Chairs Advisory Boards for start ups, SME’s, not-for-profit organisations and social enterprises to create value in the health and human services, infrastructure, defence and space industries.She is on the boards of Community Options Australia Sydney, Hen House Co-operative Ltd Adelaide and chairs or sits on several advisory boards in Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide in the st...2021-02-1630 minTake on BoardFrom Brownies to the board room, what Moira Were can teach us about gender on boardsToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Moira Were about the role of women and gender in the board room and in decision-making.Moira is on the boards of Scope Global Pty Ltd, Oikumene Foundation, Hen House Co-op and Collab4Good Pty Ltd.Her list of previous boards includes Medical Board of SA, SA Fire and Emergency Services Commission; Southern Domestic Violence Service, Noarlunga Community Legal Services; Volunteering SA & NT.Moira has worked from the kitchen table to the cabinet table and started her board career as a 19 year old youth volunteer representative...2021-02-0934 minTake on BoardRethinking 'Class at Work' with Lisa AnneseToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Lisa Annese about a recent report by the Diversity Council of Australia called ‘Class at Work”.Lisa is on the Board of Amnesty International Australia and is the Chief Executive Officer of Diversity Council Australia. In this role she leads debate on diversity and inclusion in the public arena, and as a appears regularly on ABC’s The Drum and in wider Australian media.Under her leadership, DCA delivers innovative diversity practice resources for Australian businesses and supports in them improving their inclusion capability. She has led a broa...2021-02-0228 minTake on BoardHow secure is your data? Unpacking the importance of cybersecurity with Hannah BrowneToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Hannah Browne about cybersecurity.Hannah is on the board of Greenpeace Australia Pacific (GPAP) and is Chair of the Nominations Committee, which is where we met. She also reports into an Advisory Board as the Managing Director of Midnyte City.Hannah is a technology leader and entrepreneur, now building her fifth tech company, Midnyte City. For 15 years she has worked on strategic transformation initiatives with start ups, scale ups and innovative enterprises, helping to build high-performance teams and progressive, digital first, human-centric organisations. Her core skills are...2021-01-2628 minTake on BoardWorking hard on your soft skills with Leah MetherToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Leah Mether about communication! The foundations that underpin effective communication. Why soft skills are the new hard.Leah is on the board of Fertility Matters and has previously been on the boards of Hill End Football Netball Club, and, as she says, on “lots” of committees - school council, kinder president, playgroup president, Women in Gippsland, Auskick - just to name some.Leah is a communication and soft skills specialist, obsessed with making the 'people part' of leadership and work life easier. She is a speaker, trainer, faci...2021-01-1933 minTake on BoardRegenerative nature of governing versus the old paradigm with Carol SanfordToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Carol Sanford about the regenerative nature of governing versus the old paradigm.Carol is on the board of the JLFoundation which educates and collaborates with other boards to use Living Systems thinking in educating, decision making, and pursuing change.She has worked with Fortune 500 and new economy executives in designing and leading systemic business change and design. Through her university and in-house educational offerings, global speaking platforms, multi-award-winning books, and human development work, Carol works with executive leaders who see the possibility to change the nature of...2021-01-1334 minTake on BoardTop Tips: Use LinkedIn!Hello Take on Board people and welcome to 2021!Now, as Helga mentioned in the final episode of 2020, she was going to try a few new things this year. And one of those things is short ‘top tips’ episodes.Today is the first one.So today’s tip?Use LinkedIn!Is getting a board role, expanding your network or changing jobs one of your 2021 goals? Helga takes you through some of her best practices for using the platform. Discover how she manages her skill section, who she connects with and how to use the the privacy settin...2021-01-1210 minTake on BoardIt's time to RSVP: Reflections on 2020 and goals for 2021Welcome to the final episode of Take on Board for 2020.And what a year it’s been.In this episode, Helga is going to take you through her ‘RSVP’ process – an invitation to reflect on the year and set intentions for 2021.We do this in the final session of Board Accelerator – my program for women board members. So at the end of this episode, you’ll hear some of the reflections from the group.So, what’s the RSVP formula? Listen now to find out.And thank you for joining the Take on Board community on this wild a...2020-12-2221 minTake on BoardPersonal liability for company tax debts? Caitlin Murdock helps you avoid troubleToday on the Take on Board podcast Helga is speaking to Caitlin Murdock about how directors can become personally liable for company tax debts and recent legislative changes that have broadened scope of director liability.Caitlin is a Solicitor at Holding Redlich in the Dispute Resolution & Litigation group with a particular expertise in tax. Caitlin is also a Chartered Tax Adviser. Caitlin’s practice covers all aspects of taxation and has a particular focus on indirect taxes and tax controversy.Caitlin has diverse experience advising a range of clients from small businesses though to global entities in Australia an...2020-12-1527 minTake on BoardWhat you need to know about collecting data and other digital tools with Lizzie O'SheaToday on the Take on Board podcast Helga is speaking to Lizzie O’Shea about ethical uses of data and other digital tools.Lizzie is on the boards of Digital Rights Watch, Alliance for Gambling Reform, Blueprint for Free Speech and was previously on the board of National Justice ProjectShe is a lawyer, writer, and broadcaster. Lizzie’s commentary is featured regularly on national television programs and radio, usually talking about law, digital technology, corporate responsibility, or human rights. Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, Guardian, and Sydney Morning Herald, among others. Lizzie is also...2020-12-0827 minTake on BoardAre we better together? Board amalgamations with Dr. Joy HumphreysToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Dr. Joy Humphreys about amalgamations and board dynamics.Joy is the Chair of Great Ocean Road Health, which is the merged entity of Otway Health and Lorne community health – which gives you a hint on why we are discussing amalgamations today!She has previously been on the boards of Otway Health; Centre for Grief Education; Hope of the Amazon Association and Group Relations Australia.Joy has a Doctorate in Organisation (Human Systems and Psychodynamics) and in her day job she works with individuals and groups helping th...2020-12-0131 minTake on BoardLearning lessons by reflecting on your board practice with Lauren HarrellToday on the Take On Board Podcast, Helga’s speaking to Lauren Harrell about getting on a board governance challenges. She has a great little reflection process about lessons learned that might be applicable to some of the people listening. Also Lauren shares some of the lessons she has learned from her lessons learned process. It’s all very meta, but really helpful!Lauren has served on a dozen advisory and nonprofit boards starting in her late 20s. She currently serves on an advisory board of a $12 billion publicly traded bank, as well as one of the Philadelphia's region's larg...2020-11-2433 minTake on BoardInsights from the Take on Board Breakfast: Research on board composition and decision making with Jo SmithToday on Take on Board, Helga shares her conversation with Jo Smith. This chat was part of the November Take on Board Breakfast event. Jo Smith joined Helga to talk about her research report, New Zealand Boards and Frontier Firms. She shares some lessons from the research around board composition and strategic decision making.Jo is an economist by training. She specialises in Applied Research and Analysis, particularly qualitative and mixed method studies. She spent much of her career as a consultant, first at the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research. And then with Sapir, a research group....2020-11-1727 minTake on BoardUnpacking the NDIS and lessons you can apply to your board with Liz KellyToday on the Take on Board podcast Helga is speaking to Liz Kelly about the NDIS – the National Disability Insurance Scheme - and what that means for the sector.Liz is on the boards of BreastScreen Victoria Board & have just joined the Stroke Association Victoria aboardShe has previously been President of the Association for Children with a Disability and on the boards ofChildren and Young People with a DisabilityThe Disability Services BoardVDAC ( Victorian Disability Advisory Council)Liz is qualified in divergent fields of Finance and Human Resources. She has been a director of her own wine co...2020-11-1028 minTake on BoardNous pouvons le faire (We can do it), changing boardroom culture with Caroline CodsiToday on the Take on Board podcast Helga is speaking to Caroline Codsi about her journey to the boardroom and the importance of diversity.Caroline is on the board of Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and has previously been on the boards of Music and drama Conservatory, Missing Children's Network and College International Marie-de-France.A passionate and strategic leader, Caroline has had a successful career in the corporate world of over 25 years including the past decade in VP and SVP roles within major organizations.Caroline founded Women in Governance in 2010, a non-for-profit organization with mission to encourage...2020-11-0334 minTake on BoardNavigating regulation and enforcement in governance with Helen BirdToday on the Take on Board podcast Helga is speaking to Helen Bird about the role of regulation – including enforcement – in governance.Helen is a Member of Corporate Governance Consultation Panel at ASIC, Professional Education Committee at RMIAShe is a legal academic and the discipline leader of governance studies at Swinburne Law School. Helen credits Swinburne with really putting an industry focus into her work, which has led to her appointments at ASIC – the Australian Securities and Investments Commission - and RMIA – the Risk Management Institute of Australasia.Helen is a regular media commentator and feature regularl...2020-10-2733 minTake on BoardIt's not a competition, the difference between advisory boards and governance boards with Sonya BeyersToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Sonya Beyers about the difference between advisory and governance boards and the value add that governance boards could get from an advisory board.Sonya is on the boards of BUSS(Q) Industry Superannuation Fund, Australian Affordable Housing Securities Ltd, The Forde Foundation, OzCare Governance Committee, Queensland Law Society and a NFP CommitteeSonya is Managing Director of leading governance consultancy and legal advisory firm, Governance by Design. Sonya specialises in developing solutions to foster leadership from the boardroom. Her combined expertise and experience support directors and their...2020-10-2029 minTake on BoardNavigating uncertainty in stressful economic times with Sophie GibbonsToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Sophie Gibbons about 'Navigating an economy under stress - learnings from working with distressed organisations'.Sophie supports organisations on their most ambitious and complex performance turnaround and transformation initiatives. Her role with KordaMentha Corporate means she works with Boards when significant value is at risk.Most recently, Sophie acted as the co-Administrator of South Australia's largest public healthcare network, working to deliver an ambitious turnaround of end to end financial, operational and cultural measures.Contact Sophie or find out more about her:https://www...2020-10-1335 minTake on BoardBoardroom diversity and allyship is more than ticking a box with Tricia MalowneyToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Tricia Malowney about diversity, recognising women with a disability for their skills and talents, and becoming an ally.Tricia is President of Women with Disabilities Australia, Director at Scope Australia and Director Western Health. She has also recently been appointed to the NDIS Independent Advisory Council.The list of boards she has previously been on is long, that it is easier to list them!Inaugural President Disability Services BoardInaugural Chair Women with Disabilities AustraliaChair Independent Disability ServicesDirector Women's Hospital Director,Disability Discrimination Legal ServiceDirector Australian Orthotics and...2020-09-2932 minTake on BoardWhat barrier? Getting more in women in the boardroom with Jan EastonToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking with Jan Easton about increasing women’s representation in the board room and her recent report “Achieving Scale: Breaking Through Barriers for Female Founders”Jan is a founding member and Certified Chair of the Advisory Board Centre and she has served as Advisory Board Chair for several private organisations including a national hospitality franchise and marketing agency.Jan has extensive senior management experience in the franchise and professional services industries. Originally from the US, at just 21 years old, Jan became the General Manager of a global software company disrup...2020-09-2232 minTake on BoardCan I get some help over here? Tips for putting together an advisory board with Louise BroekmanToday on the Take On Board Podcast, Helga is speaking with Louise Broekman about the emergence of advisory boards, and why they are a growing area of work in portfolios.Louise is the founder and CEO of the Advisory Board Centre. Having had firsthand life changing experience with her advisory board in a previous business, Louise researched and tested the advisory board sector for five years prior to establishing the world's first professional body for the advisory board sector.Louise’s entrepreneurial spirit led her on an exciting career path, but when she realised she needed help, she ca...2020-09-1530 minTake on BoardInsights from the Take on Board Breakfast - Linda White on distress signals boards should be on the lookout forToday on the Take on Board podcast, things are a little different.A couple of weeks ago, people from around the world congregated on Zoom to meet, network, laugh and share insights with like-minded people as part of August’s Take on Board Breakfast.In a Take on Board first, Helga interviewed Linda White live for the breakfast participants. Following that discussion, Linda fields questions from the group. This is an edited version of those conversations.To make sure you don’t miss a moment of the networking and conversation, join Helga for the next event on Sept...2020-09-0836 minTake on BoardFrom the top down: setting the diversity agenda with Elana RubinToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga’s speaking to Elana Rubin about diversity and culture.Elana is on the boards of Afterpay Ltd, Telstra Ltd, Slater & Gordon Ltd, and several unlisted government entities. She’s previously been on the boards of AustralianSuper, Mirvac, ME Bank, WorkSafe Victoria and TAC.Elana started her career in social policy and industrial relations at the ACTU before moving to superannuation, where she was the investment director for a large industry super fund. She then moved into non executive director roles working across a wide range of sectors..She is a st...2020-09-0133 minTake on Board"We should really be on Facebook": Navigating the world of marketing and boards with Kate Badgery-ParkerToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Kate Badgery-Parker about what boards need to think about when considering marketing issues and making sure they stay in a strategic space.Kate is on the board of a Onemda and not for profit disability services provider supporting more than 200 adults with intellectual disabilities. She's also a member of the risk and compliance subcommittee. Kate is also the vice chair and Treasurer of marketing women incorporated Victoria, a small volunteer group who connect and educate marketing women.After more than 20 years in blue chip consumer service organizations...2020-08-2527 minTake on BoardGet to know a board's role in creating regenerative economies with Jenny AnderssonToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Jenny Andersson about The role of boards in creating regenerative economiesJenny is on the Board of Coast to Capital, an organisation that seeks to ensure that their local towns and cities are known around the world as fantastic places to live.She is a creative strategist and trusted advisor who has worked with global brands, scale-ups and start-ups for over 30 years on communications and sustainability strategies. Today she concentrates on working with organisations that are accelerating a shift from sustainability to regenerative strategies.Jenny is...2020-08-1830 minTake on BoardHow to deal with a 'bad boss' in the boardroom with Michelle GibbingsToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking to Michelle Gibbings about her new book, Bad Boss and about the relationship between the board and CEO, between the CEO and their direct reports and organisational culture and leadership.You might remember Helga interviewed Michelle last year about one of her previous books Step Up: How to Build Your Influence at Work. Michelle has just released a further book called Bad Boss: what to do if you work for one, manage one or are one, which unsurprisingly, talks about relationships and culture. In this episode, Helga and Michelle...2020-08-1131 minTake on BoardUsing lessons from netball to build up your perfect board with Rochelle CourtenayToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking with Rochelle Courtenay about being a founder of an organisation, board meetings and surrounding yourself with skills and strengths.Rochelle is Share the Dignity’s founder and Managing Director; the title she is most proud of though is ‘Pad Lady’. Rochelle has led a team of volunteers collecting around 2.5 million sanitary products across Australia. When Rochelle first learnt of homeless women going without basic sanitary items during their menstrual cycle, she decided the question was not, “why is no one doing anything” but rather, “what’s stopping me from doing somethin...2020-08-0425 minTake on BoardWhat's your definition of board diversity? Rethinking what it means with Rachel WatsonToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga’s speaking with Rachel Watson about diversity on boards and what that means to her and her organisations.Rachel is the CEO of Pacific Hydro and Chair of the Clean Energy Council. Prior to joining Pacific Hydro, Rachel worked as in-house counsel in Sydney and Melbourne for Orica Ltd, and spent three years in Japan working for a major turbine supplier.She has over 20 years’ experience in major transactions and leading teams in a wide range of business functions.Aside from her current board roles with Pacific Hydro and Clea...2020-07-2834 minTake on BoardGood as gold: how to tackle your board responsibilities with Michele AshbyToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Michele Ashby about board work and the responsibilities of chairing committees.Michele is on the boards of McEwan Mining and has previously been on the boards of Lake Victoria Gold, Lucky Strike Mining, Lithium X and Green Energy Corp.She was named one of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business in Colorado for 2019 and is the President and founder of Ashby Consulting Enterprises & Corporate Directors International. She is the originator of Ace Board Training For Women which has a goal to train 1,000 women for corporate boards....2020-07-2134 minTake on BoardUsing tech to help onboard new directors with Maryanne Puli VogelsToday on the Take On Board Podcast, Helga is speaking with Maryanne Puli Vogel's about how she leveraged technology to better prepare new directors.Maryanne is passionate and inspired by the divergence of learning and technology. She is always looking to improve the way businesses and health institutions leverage and streamline their operations with new technologies.She's led and managed teams virtually for over 20 years sharing her expertise in the successful implementation of online education. So she’s had a jump on those of us catching up to working from home in our COVID times.Maryanne has he...2020-07-1426 minTake on BoardHappy Birthday Take on Board: An interview with Helga SvendsenToday on the Take on Board Podcast, in celebration of Take on Board’s first birthday, the microphone is turned towards Helga!She sits down for an across the world chat with producer, Buffy Gorrilla. Helga shares how she caught governance fever, her decision to leave law and what her hopes are for the podcast in year two. Spoiler: grow the community.So, be a Helga, use your joining gene and come be part of the active and supportive Take on Board community today! Come to a Take on Board event, join the Facebook group (link below) or sh...2020-07-0729 minTake on BoardWorld in turmoil? Here's how board leaders set the tone with Sara FaivreToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Sara Faivre about social unrest, COVID-19 and the board's role in setting the tone.Sara has a background in agriculture and biotechnology, Her own transformative journey from the research lab to the boardroom has led to a career devoted to helping others integrate profit and purpose. Sara is a public and private company board director and business evolution coach from Austin, Texas.She is on the boards of Farmer Mac (NYSE:AGM), One More Cloud (private-held tech), NACD-Texas TriCities advisory board.She was formerly on the boards of...2020-06-3027 minTake on BoardWomen! Own your success and be prepared to talk about it with Jan MolinoToday on the Take on board podcast, Helga is speaking with Jan Molino about how getting on a board starts with you.Jan is on the Aging Life Care Association Advisory Board and is an active member of both the International Women's Forum and the DC chapter of International Women's Forum. She is also an emeritus member of the George Mason University Women in Business Advisory Board.Jan is the President and CEO of Aspire Ascend, a consulting firm that provides a comprehensive portfolio and board career development services to enhance the success of executive women.Jan...2020-06-0928 minTake on BoardAdding socioeconomic diversity to your board with Rhonda Brighton-HallToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking with Rhonda Brighton Hall about culture, diversity change and what makes a good chair.Rhonda is a director of Making Work Absolutely Human. And she writes and speaks for the Australian Institute of Company Directors. In fact, Helga heard her speak at the AICD Governance Summit and couldn't get near her afterwards because there was so many people surrounding her wanting to ask questions. So she sent her a tweet and voila - she’s here today to share her wisdom.Rhonda is a former board member of th...2020-06-0233 minTake on BoardThat's positive! Using language to build relationships with Dr Melinda MuthToday on the Take on Board podcast, I'm speaking with Dr. Melinda Muth about how effective relationships are built on effective conversations and how effective conversations are built on positive language.Melinda is on the boards of Harvard Club Australia Philanthropy and Curious Works and she has previously been on the boards of Indigenous Community Volunteers, Heart Kids New South Wales, Union University and Schools Club and Quest for life Foundation.Melinda is an educator and consultant who specializes in decision making and group effectiveness, principally with senior executives and leadership teams.She introduces the concept of...2020-05-2630 minTake on BoardEstablishing an Advisory Council with Jocelyn FurlanToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Jocelyn Furlan.Jocelyn has returned to cover some of the topics she and Helga didn’t have time to get to in their first chat, such as governance challenges and the establishment of and her role on the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal Advisory Council.Her passion is an Australian community empowered and confident about their financial affairs. She works with financial service providers to maximise member and customer centricity in their products and services and assisting them to implement best practice in remediation and dispute resolution.Jocelyn is a...2020-05-1934 minTake on BoardEncouraging your boards to use competitive intelligence with Babette BensoussanToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga’s speaking with Babette Bensoussan about strategy and competitive intelligence.Babette is on the board of Volunteering Sunshine Coast, and she's formerly been a director of the National Australia Day Council, the New South Wales Board of Adult and Community Education and Eastside Radio.As a decision making maverick. Babette assists organisations to make better competitive decisions and assist individuals to make better decisions about their life, careers and leadership. As Managing Director of Mind Shifts, she specialises in competitive intelligence, strategic planning and strategic marketing projects in the Australian re...2020-05-1230 minTake on BoardKnow your board role in a crisis with Dr Emily MooreToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga's speaking with Dr. Emily Moore about being an effective board member and the role of a board in a crisis.Emily is on the boards of Metrolinx, which is a provincial crown corporation providing regional commuter rail and bus services for Toronto and Chemtrade logistics, a Toronto Stock Exchange listed industrial chemical organization.She's also finishing up on HalTech Regional innovation and she's formerly been a director of St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School, the Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, and the Committee for Research Partnerships.2020-05-0531 minTake on BoardAn introduction to integrity governance with Jo-Anne MoorfootToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is peaking with Jo-Anne Moorfoot about integrity governance. Jo-Anne explains what it is and why it's important.Jo-Anne is on the boards of the West Gippsland Healthcare Group and Best Chance Child and Family Services. With a career spanning over 30 years Jo-Anne has extensive experience in the health sector, with particular expertise in risk management, clinical governance and effective consumer engagement.Jo-Anne is experienced in transformational organisational change and has managed a number of large scale organisation wide projects. Her career has included the management of a large operational clinical...2020-04-2833 minTake on BoardHere's some help for communicating in a crisis with Ingrid SvendsenToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Ingrid Svendsen about communicating in a crisis.Ingrid is the co-founder and chair of the East Timor Hearts Fund, and she's also the past president of the Darebin Parklands Association. Her first board was the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance Victorian Branch Councillor.Ingrid is a crisis communication professional who has specialised in the age, disability and health sectors for around 10 years. She's the co-owner of Grounded Communications and an AICD trained non-executive director.She has an adult son and lives in Melbourne with her partner and...2020-04-2131 minTake on BoardUsing your passions to build your board portfolio with Julie GreenToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking with Julie Green about getting on a board and building a board portfolio around your areas of influence and passion.This alignment of your skills to a board role is key. Helga explores how to highlight your own points of difference in her conversation with Julie.Julie is a board member of the RACV which is the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria, RACV Finance, Bendigo Health, Maldon Hospital, Loddon Mallee Waste and Resource Recovery , Greening Australia and Redgrid Advisory Board.Julie is a passionate portfolio director adding value...2020-04-1429 minTake on BoardUnderstanding how the new COVID-19 laws can protect businesses with Samantha KinseyToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga is speaking with Samantha Kinsey about some of the new Australian laws relating to directors arising out of the Covid=19 pandemic.First, let me tell you about Samantha. Samantha is a restructuring and insolvency partner in the Melbourne Office of King and Wood Mallesons.Samantha acts for diverse stakeholders in relation to distressed situations including finances, shareholders, insolvency practitioners and potential acquirers.Samantha explains there could be some ways to protect your business. This is an evolving topic and Helga will stay on top of it and bring Samantha...2020-04-0721 minTake on BoardDon't be a Carla, the rules of network engagement with Sheila RonningToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Sheila Ronning about using your network and your personal brand to help you get on boards.Sheila broke the mould in 2002, launching Women in the Boardroom as the first to form such an organisation with customised executive training programs and networking opportunities. She has created a proven program and process to get women their first second or third corporate board seat.Her first board was the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce in the late 90s. And since then, she's been on a range of business industry and not for...2020-03-3134 minTake on BoardWhen there was still time to get ahead of COVID-19 with Jocelyn FurlanToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Jocelyn Furlan.Initially we had planned to speak about being an effective board member, governance challenges and the establishment of the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal Advisory Council and where that led - and we’ll get to that in a future episode, I promise.But we changed the focus of this conversation, because Jocelyn worked with one of her boards this week on something many businesses, schools and non-profits are going to have to face, if they haven’t already - what to do about COVID-19.She's the chai...2020-03-2431 minTake on BoardAICD Australian Governance Summit 2020 recap with HelgaToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga recaps the Australian Institute of Company Directors conference.So here is what Helga heard during the two-day conference peppered with some of her thoughts on topics that were raised and things for you to think about.You might also want to have a look at Helga’s Twitter feed (https://twitter.com/helgasvendsen?lang=en) from this period, she live tweeted most of the sessions that she attended and managed to remember the detailsIt was a jam packed conference. This is her summary and there's more detail onTwitter.2020-03-1734 minTake on BoardCEO and chair working towards a no surprise policy with Sally DavisToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Sally Davis about the relationship between the CEO and the board.Sally's a consultant and she specialises in strategic planning, leadership and organisational development. She works with clients in a range of sectors including the arts, universities and the not for profit sector.She’s got a fascinating background, Sally started out as a ‘connie’ on the trams. Of course, Melburnians will know what that means, but for those of you not in or from Melbourne – or too young to remember - it's a conductor on the trams and she...2020-03-1026 minTake on BoardThrough the board portal with Jodie WillmerToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Jodie Willmer about board portals.Some boards have adopted this tool to make sharing information easier and more secure. Depending on which platform you use, you could be saying farewell to paper for good. Imagine going into your next board meeting armed with just a tablet, confident that everything you need will be there - and there’s nothing to shred at the end.Jodie is co-founder of Happy Changemakers, an organisation that helps social entrepreneurs, small businesses and not for profits plan for the future. Jodie and he...2020-03-0331 minTake on Board#Yougotthistechnology - finding your way in the tech landscape with Jennifer George Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga sits down with Jennifer George to cover how you can make a valuable contribution in discussions around technology, even if you're not a technology whiz, in the boardroom.Jennifer is Head of Growth at Bay City Labs at Australian Computer Society (ACS). Jennifer has a background in finance. She's made several companies (a concept she explains) and worked in more than 50 industry sectors, including new energy, biotech, telecommunications, digital twins, blockchain and smart cities.She's currently on the advisory panel for Smart Cities Standards Australia and was previously an advisory...2020-02-2531 minTake on BoardFearless leadership in the boardroom with Corrinne ArmourToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga’s speaking with Corrinne Armour about fearless leadership in the boardroom and from the other side of the board table and executive perspectives.Corrinne is the former Deputy Chair of Wintringham and a founding chair for the Torch Project where she helped the organisation move from a project auspiced by the not for profit to an independent structure.She's a speaker, trainer and coach who helps leadership teams develop fearless leadership and delivers transformational results. Known for her energy, empathy and results focus her clients come from a range of se...2020-02-1831 minTake on BoardWhat your board can learn from a value based healthcare approach with Zoe WainerToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Zoe Wainer about being an effective board member, governance challenges and in particular about value based health care.Zoe is the chair of the board of Dental Health Services Victoria and also a board member of the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation.She was formerly on the boards of the AMA Victoria and Tobacco Free portfolios. She is a medical doctor with a clinical background in cardiothoracic surgery, and the head of Public Health and Medical Director at BUPA.Contact Zoe or find out more about her:...2020-02-1131 minTake on BoardTackling imposter syndrome and finding your purpose with Jennifer DuncanToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Jennifer Duncan about women leadership and how imposter syndrome sometimes holds us back from seeking roles such as directorships.Jennifer is Deputy Chair of Justice Reinvestment, South Australia, Deputy Chair of the Youth Affairs Council of South Australia and a member of the Living Stories advisory board. She was formerly on the South Australian Council of Social Services, the Australian Youth Affairs coalition Australian Red Cross South Australia and the South Australian health and Community Services skills board.She has a wealth of experience to share with us...2020-02-0435 minTake on BoardBushfires and climate change - impact in the board room: Get Elected with Ruth McGowanToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Ruth McGowan about getting elected to government, after all, local, state or federal governments are just another form of Board.They’ll be talking about the governance challenges in elected positions, how to get elected, office politics and more.This interview was recorded in late 2019. Since then, Australia has been in the middle of a ferocious the bushfire season. Since Helga has been doing this series on climate change bushfires, and its impact in the boardroom, she thought revisiting this discussion with Ruth would be helpful.In th...2020-01-2843 minTake on BoardBushfires and climate change - impact in the boardroom of a tourism organisation and agribusiness with Nicola PeroToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga talks with Nicola Pero about bushfires, board obligations in considering climate risk, and the balance of operational versus strategic in times of crisis.Nicola is a Gippslander and a board member of Destination Gippsland and Food and Fibre Gippsland. She has a lot to share with us since Gippsland has been at the center of one of the devastating bushfires in Australia. The impact on both the tourism industry and agriculture will be enormous.She was formerly on the business curriculum Advisory Board of Bahrain Polytechnic. With previous private public...2020-01-2133 minTake on BoardBushfires and climate change - impact in the boardroom of a winery with Henriette RothschildToday on the Take on Board podcast, Helga talks with Henriette Rothschild about bushfires, climate change, emergencies and the impact that this has in the boardroom.Helga was in Adelaide during the Christmas period. During that time, the Adelaide Hills experienced devastating fires. Two people died and others were injured. More than 80 homes were lost, as well as about 500 outbuildings, hundreds of vehicles and extensive losses of livestock, pets and massive crop damage and vineyard damage.In particular, about 1100 hectares of the Adelaide Hills vineyards are believed to have been destroyed or badly damaged due to the fires...2020-01-1429 minTake on BoardWhat's your superpower? And setting your 2020 governance goals - Episode 26Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga reflects on 2019 and provides some tools for you to do the same.Reflection has popped up in many of Helga’s Take on Board conversations, so it’s only fitting that in this final episode before a two week pause that Helga outlines an exercise for you to incorporate this into your life.But don’t just stop at reflection, look ahead to what you want to accomplish as we roll into a new decade. You’ll want to RSVP to this episode.Have a wonderful festive period and Take on...2019-12-2213 minTake on BoardPart 3: Strategy session: the board role, Dominique Hes - Episode 25Today on the Take on Board podcast, Dr Dominique Hes is back for another on air coaching session.Helga has spoken with Dominique on two separate occasions. Once they covered preparing an application for a board role. Next, they tackled the interview process and how to present yourself with confidence. Well, Dominique has returned to give us an update - how did the interview go and did she land a seat at the board table?Today, you get to sit in on this wrap-up session and pick up some of the insights from Helga and Dominique. Helga cannot...2019-12-1716 minTake on BoardGetting the new Australian Modern Slavery laws and other human rights issues on the board agenda with Alex Newton - Episode 24Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga talks with Alex Newton.Helga and Alex talk discuss human rights and business and what directors need to know and what to ask.Alex is a lawyer and specialist in business and human rights. She consults with corporations, governments, and non-governmental organizations on a wide range of matters relating to responsible business, human rights, anti discrimination, Public Policy and Governance.She's previously worked as director and executive in Australia's department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. And before that in the United Nations Secretary General's strategic planning unit in New...2019-12-1028 minTake on BoardInformation is half the battle: Dissect company reports like a journalist with Rachel Alembakis - Episode 23Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga talks with Rachel Alembakis.Rachel is a journalist with over 20 years of experience. One of her areas of expertise is looking at how corporate governance links with impact investment. And how the flow of environmental, social and governance analysis (ESG) analysis can help to mitigate risk and can help provide long term investment return.During her conversation with Helga, Rachel explains how to look at environmental, social and corporate governance issues using two main perspectives and how they impact institutional investors and corporations.Rachel explains two big changes in...2019-12-0330 minTake on BoardLeverage your network: Tips from board recruiter, Clare McCartin - Episode 22Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga talks with Clare McCartinClare is the Group General Manager of Executive and Boards at Davidson Recruitment.Clare has the insights from the other side of the interview table. She takes Helga through the board recruitment process. One thing Clare is a fan of, using your network. You never know who you know, who knows someone who can make an introduction.This episode is ideal if you are setting career goals for now or 2020 - we know lots of people listening to this program are interested in their first...2019-11-2636 minTake on BoardUsing the 'joining gene' in your pathway to the board room with Linda White - Episode 21Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga interviews Linda White.Linda describes herself as having done heaps, she rarely says no, and she firmly believes you are never to old learn new things.She's on the National Executive for the Australian Labor Party, the executive of the Australian Council of Trade Unions, the National Executive of the Australian Services Union. And she's also on the board of the Chifley Research Centre, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, the MCG Trust, and the Portable Long Service Leave governing board.She was formerly on the board of...2019-11-1929 minTake on BoardPutting Consumers at the Heart of Governance with Kellie O'Callaghan - Episode 20Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga chats with Kellie O’Callaghan about governance challenges and one of her passions, putting consumers at the heart of governance and how boards can respectfully engage with community stakeholders. We’re looking at you social media.The conversation between Kellie and Helga will also touch on the importance working through the uncomfortable topics around the board table, embracing disruptors and non-traditional leaders.Kelly is recognised for her strong leadership in health, community services and governance. She's a well respected community leader and influencer with a passion for health, consumer and comm...2019-11-1238 minTake on BoardBreaking down preconceptions in the board room with Sheena Watt - Episode 19Today on the Take on Board podcast Helga chats with Sheena Watt about how to get on a board and about cultural isolation in the boardroom.Sheena, a proud Yorta Yorta woman, is a board member of Vic Health, Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, Progressive Public Health Australia, the Victorian Council of Social Services, otherwise known as VCOSS, and Women's Health Victoria.She's also the executive manager for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander policy and programs at AFL Sports Ready.Sheena was formerly on the Boards of the Queen Elizabeth Centre, The Centre for Australian Progress, 3KND (Koori...2019-11-0531 minTake on BoardThe importance of regional boards with Fiona Williams - Episode 18Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga interviews Fiona Williams.Fiona is a board member of the Great Ocean Road Health board and was previously the Chair of Bethany Board of Management.She's the child safe volunteering hub project lead at Australian Volunteers International and has worked in the international development sector as a child protection safeguarding specialist for over 15 years.Fiona takes Helga through her board journey - from member to chair, the importance of regional boards and why she thinks it is important to get involved, no matter what level.Boards Fiona...2019-10-2928 minTake on BoardEmpowering young changemakers into governance with Jane Kennedy - Episode 17Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga speaks with Jane Kennedy.Jane is on the board of UN Youth Australia and describes herself as a perpetual uni student social change advocate and believer in the transformative power of passionate young people.Through her work in the youth participation and international development space, Jane empowers young change makers with the opportunities, resources and networks to help shape their lives, communities and our future.If you are between the ages of 16 and 25, you can apply for an independent board director role at UN Youth Australia - but act...2019-10-2229 minTake on BoardPart 2: Strategy session: Board interviews, Dominique Hes - Episode 16Today on the Take on Board podcast, Dr Dominique Hes is back for another on air coaching session.Remember a few weeks ago, Dominique was preparing an application for a board role - well she landed an interview.So Helga is having another chat with her to run through some interview preparation tips and tricks. Number one tip - research. But there is so much more these two cover in their chat.Today, you get to eavesdrop on one of those sessions and pick up some of the insights from Helga and from Dominique. This episode is...2019-10-1533 minTake on BoardAn appetite for risk with Zora Artis - Episode 15Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga interviews Zora Artis.Zora is the chair of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), on the Asia Pacific regional board. She was formerly on the ABC international executive board from 2016 to 2019 and Zora served on the IABC Victorian chapter board.Zora is the CEO of Artis Advisory a strategic advisory practice focused on helping clients succeed, whether it's solving a business problem, or leveraging opportunities through better organizational alignment, engagement and communication.Zora has almost three decades of experience in business marketing, communication, advertising and branding and a...2019-10-0829 minTake on BoardGaining governance influence and using it for good with Michelle Gibbings - Episode 14Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga interviews Michelle Gibbings.Michelle is a change leadership and career expert. She's the author of Step Up - How to Build your Influence at Work and Career Leap - How to Reinvent and Liberate Your Career. Michelle is obsessed with unlocking high impact choices to accelerate meaningful progress. She's enabling a new breed of leader one that's fit for the future of work.As a highly sought after speaker and facilitator, Michelle works with leading edge organizations to optimize outcomes by building the capability, capacity and conviction of their leaders...2019-10-0130 minTake on BoardFinding the right fit for a board role with Jo Plummer - Episode 13Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga will be speaking with Jo Plummer.Jo is an experienced board chair, professional mentor, expert facilitator, master of ceremonies, fairness and equity champion. Her sweet spot is aligning commercial, social and environmental outcomes.Jo is the Board Chair of Barwon Water and Victoria Water, chair of the South Melbourne Market Advisory Committee, Geelong Regional Football and a committee member of Geelong AICD. She’s also on the advisory board of the Deakin MBA committee.She was formerly on the Central Highlands Water Board, Geelong Rangers soccer club and Barwon Yo...2019-09-2431 minTake on BoardAfter the Financial Services Royal Commission with Christina Liosis - Episode 12Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga interviews Christina Liosis.Christina was until recently on the board of the Royal Women's Hospital (RWH) with Helga and this conversation takes place just after Christina’s final Audit Committee. She is leaving the Board of the RWH as she has come reached her maximum term.But before she goes, she and Helga have a fabulous conversation about a range of things from the Royal Commission into financial services and some of the outcomes about risk, which is a particular passion for Christina. If you have ever wondered about audit co...2019-09-1732 minTake on BoardFollowing passions and interests to the board room with Sandy Bell - Episode 11Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga interviews Sandy Bell.Sandy is the chair of the Queen Elizabeth Centre and Early Parenting Centre. She was previously a board member at the Queen Victoria Women's Centre Trust, YWCA Victoria and YWCA Australia, Social Housing Victoria and Bass Coast Health.Sandy holds over 25 years experience in the health and human services industry, initially as a clinician and in senior roles of both public health services and the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.She's currently director of strategy and planning at the Royal Women's Hospital. Sandy has more...2019-09-1031 minTake on BoardRethinking the meaning of 'country' and how we can be allies in the board room with Amber Roberts - Episode 10Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga will be speaking with Amber Roberts.Amber is a non executive director of Greenpeace, Australia Pacific. And she's also the chair of the nominations committee.Amber is the manager of PwC Indigenous Consulting, and formerly worked with the Australian Human Rights Commission, Reconciliation Australia and the Diversity Council of Australia.The Take on Board Facebook group asked me to explore two questions. Firstly, whether and how to do an acknowledgement of country at the start of meetings and secondly, to explore board and company capacity to contribute to indigenous reconciliation...2019-09-0334 minTake on BoardGetting board-ready with Anita Roper - Episode 9Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga interviews Anita Roper.Anita has over 30 years experience in senior management roles working with business communities government and multilateral agencies in Australia, Canada, UK and the USA. Her executive career spans the private and public sectors, including Chief Executive Officer at Sustainability Victoria and Global Director of Sustainability with Alcoa in New York.Anita is a current director of Yarra Valley Water and the Stroke Association of Victoria. And she's previously been a board member at the Hazelwood Coal Mine Fire Inquiry. The Victorian Public Sector Advisory Board, Fitzroy Football...2019-08-2724 minTake on BoardMore women in decision-making roles with Leonie Morgan AM - Episode 8Today on the Take on Board podcast, Helga will be speaking with Leonie Morgan A M.Leonie is a woman with a wealth of governance experience, which, coupled with her focus on gender equality and mentoring, means her wisdom is something you’ll want to hear. Her passion is seeing more women in decision making. This work was acknowledged by her inclusion on the Victorian Women's Honour Roll in 2007 and she has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant services to women.Leonie is a director of Film Victoria, Holmesglen TAFE and a founding me...2019-08-2025 minTake on BoardMaking governance problems easy to solve with Dr Sue Keay - Episode 7Today on the Take on Board podcast, I'll be speaking with Dr Sue Keay.Sue set up the world's first robotic vision Research Center, and she now leads CSIROs data 61 cyber physical systems program.Last year, she developed Australia's first robotics roadmap, highlighting how advances in robotics and AI will impact on every sector of the Australian economy. With a PhD in geo science and an MBA, Sue combines science with business. She has an interest in entrepreneurship and disruptive technologies and she started QUTs social robotics program.Sue serves on the board of the CRC for...2019-08-1331 minTake on BoardGetting attention in the boardroom with Julie Bignell - Episode 5Julie Bignell is the Deputy Chair of Care Super, Director of the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors, and a Director at Austin Health.She's formerly been a director of the North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation, and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland. Julie's an experienced committee chair and she's chaired committees on risk corporate governance, member and community engagement and human resources and industrial relations issues.She got her start as a Cole’s ‘check out chick’ and says, “my understanding of boards and how organisations work really came from lived experience of working". She was intrigued, and wanted in and s...2019-07-3030 minTake on BoardDepth and breadth in the boardroom with Sandra Loader - Episode 1Sandra Loader is the chair of the Australian Beverage Council and a non-executive director of the Sports Environment Alliance and the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology. She's also a member of the Advisory Committee for the New South Wales Government container deposit scheme. She was previously a non-executive director of the Food Industry Association, and innovation start-ups such as the food Technology Centre.Today, Sandra speaks with Helga Svendsen about how her country roots influenced her start in governance. Sandra says that you need to make sure you are aware of the commitment being an active board...2019-07-0232 min