Women at Armidale Regional Council, New South Wales, are unlocking their leadership potential so they can be seen and heard in the work place – and they mean business.
Council is embarking on a ‘Restore and Thrive’ Turnaround Strategy to reset its own operations and earn the respect of the community once again after operating under an interim administrator from June to December 2020.
An integral part of the strategy is developing a workforce that reflects the diversity of the region, and women in leadership roles are crucial in bridging the gender diversity gap.
Council has partnered with the Dattner Group whose flagship leadership courses and women’s programs are assisting women in ouncil at all levels of leadership, on a transformational journey that links women’s ambition with their deepest sense of purpose and core values.
Council’s Executive Manager People and Culture, Annie Harris said the program aligned with the values based leadership model Council is adopting.
“Nine women in various leadership roles have been, or are currently enrolled in the program.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive from staff on the program. Our hope is that we start to see women step up and drive change within the organisation and not only be seen, but more importantly heard and valued for their contribution.
“Council is aware, like a vast majority of councils, particularly in regional areas, that it has a way to go in ensuring gender parity within its leadership group. This program is absolutely the first step to changing this.
“As we see more women moving into typically male dominated areas of our operations, to me, this investment just makes good sense.
“We know that the impact of this program is not only on current participants, building confidence and leadership capability, but it will develop strong role models and mentors for the next generation of women who join Council.
“I’m confident that with the programs we have in place and with a values based leadership model embedded into the organisation more women will join me at the executive level before too long.”
