Sue Willis is an incredible lady who has worked tirelessly in the media industry and has always given generously of her time as a volunteer – on Boards, committees and in the capacity as an Ambassador in a number of areas that she is passionate about. She lives her life on her own terms and makes an impact in every role she tackles, and every community she embraces; and none more so than as a passionate Mum and supportive friend. She really is a ‘one in a million’ lady and it is terrific to be able to share her inspiring story with you…

For a long time you worked in various media, what attracted you to this industry and share with us some of the tips you have learned whilst in these roles?

I have had a wonderful career spanning two decades in media across Queensland and am grateful to have worked for some amazing leaders and mentors and for large corporates who invest heavily in the development of their people. From News Corps exclusive leadership development program to secondment with the Wall Street journal I have had wonderful opportunities to develop as a senior executive and grow personally and professionally across various management roles.

My greatest learnings from this period of extensive career development are undoubtedly to ‘collect’ mentors and use them wisely, it’s as important to recognise what not to do as what to do in any role, and make sure the people who need to know who you are and what you can do, know who you are and what you can do, and never lose the desire to learn.

As a busy lady, you’ve also been very generous in offering your time to volunteer work and committees… what areas or causes are you particularly passionate about and why?

Yes, volunteer Directorships on NFP Boards has been a particular strategy of mine from the early days of developing my career. Not only do these roles serve my own particular values around my responsibility to contribute as a good human to the community which supports and nurtures me, but also strategically to put myself in front of key movers and shakers in broader industry and community, developing key relationships and networks which have held me in great stead over the years. Local government and equal opportunity for women have been two of my particular interests over the years, holding positions on Local Govt advisory boards, Tourism Boards, the WNBL, SCBWN and women’s shelters have all supported my passion for affecting much needed change and the empowerment of women in community.

You’ve always been a huge supporter of women in general – what’s the motivation behind this?

As a young woman developing a career in such a male dominated industry as media, although as a rule I worked for some very fine male leaders, I was very aware of the glass ceiling, of disparity in remuneration, especially in women’s professional sport and in politics at every level. I also became exposed for the first time through the volunteer networks I was involved with to the hideousness and impacts on women domestic violence and as a women who has been so privileged to develop profile and a voice as a senior executive I am committed to using that voice to speak for those who can’t. What right do we have not to affect change when it is our power to do so. I also have a daughter whom I was determined to show a better way, and instill in her a commitment to stand for human rights and equality.

Tell us about your new role in Brisbane and what that entails and how it fits into your lifestyle?

Ah, I’ve reached that wonderful time in my life where all that has gone before leads to a place I’ve always dreamed of, where all of the planets align and it really is my turn to step into a place I was always meant to be. My work with NFP’s, as a senior executive and an MBA have professionally positioned me to control and choose the next chapter of my professional life. A dairy farmer’s daughter, breast cancer survivor, single recently after 22 years of marriage with 2 now raised children have personally positioned me for the next chapter of my personal life. And the two are completely and beautifully in-sync for the first time in my life. A move home to South East Queensland earlier this year to join the C-suite, as the CEO of the Peak Body in Australia for the Organic Industry. A NFP company, we are strategically placed to support and develop one of fastest growing industries ($2.4billion) in the country. Bringing together my passion for politics (now at a national level), my agricultural roots, and my understanding of and commitment to prevention rather than cure of disease, this role not only brings me home, surrounded by those dearest to me, but offers me a national and world stage to play out the next chapter of my career. I have the perfect blend of travel, team, friends and family, food and wine (organic of course) and amazing humans all around me.

How do you find time for yourself and what sort of things do you enjoy to do in your downtime?

I still love and treasure nothing more than a good catch-up over great food and wine with my girlfriends. It’s the best de-stresser and escape in the world. A close second is a good book in a quiet nook somewhere where no-one can find me. And sailing. There is nowhere further from the office or technology than under sail wherever I may be. I manage to indulge my love of all of these things with my love of travel, mostly combining all of them a couple of times a year. You’ll never ‘find’ time, so don’t bother. You need to carve it out, recognising it is these things that inspire and renew you that truly make you the best version of yourself. Make an appointment with yourself at least once a week, and again at the weekend. And take a holiday twice a year.

If your life was a book – what would the title be?

A boss of mine once said ‘If your life was a song, it would be Frank Sinatra’s ‘I did it my way’. I kinda think it would work as a book title as well.

You are happiest when?

I am living the truest version of myself with no apology.

Coast or City?

I’m a traveller and a free spirit so I find beauty and belonging wherever I am in the moment – but Coast. Noosa. Home.

Favourite song?

No surprises here – Anything John Bon Jovi (oh and Peter Allen’s Tenterfield Saddler)