Rebecca began her career in hotels working across multiple departments, she loved the fast paced work environment and quickly rose through the ranks as Conference and Events Manager of a large 5 star hotel.  Rebecca’s career in the events industry has spanned 25 years and provided opportunities and experiences that would make for an interesting read one day!

For the past 6 of those years, Rebecca has been the event director of a national events company that produces some of the countries largest Food & Wine festivals and 20,000 people strong music & craft beer festivals. Working with local & state  governments and being the industry benchmark for process and operational planning was a career highlight.

Rebecca and her family moved to the Sunshine Coast when Oliver was due to start school, for the lifestyle and to be closer to family, as her role was demanding and involved a lot of travel. After 6 years she yearned to be home more and an opportunity arose to live and work on the coast.

Rebecca’s career & life pivoted at this point  and already having a close working relationship with STEPS Group for several years, working alongside the charity team as the director of the event company who has managed the past three STEPS Grand Winter Balls the decision was made. Rebecca’s appointment to the role of executive manager of STEPS Charity is one that will provide her with the scope to use her past skills and business acumen to innovate and grow the charity which has been built on solid foundations. The insight and relationships forged over this time will prove invaluable and provide a great foundation on which they will continue to build from. Rebecca’s background in events, fundraising and business has made the transition smooth.

What guided you towards working as a Charity Manager and working in the Not-For-Profit world?

From an early age my family has been involved in the community helping others, the common saying in our household was and still is to treat others how’d you like to be treated.   To live and work in my own community with the opportunity to create positive social change was the driver towards working in the Not for Profit world.

Tell us about the people you work with and how they have helped change the lives of young adults living with disability and autism and their families?

I work with some of the most dedicated and passionate people I’ve ever met and have had the privilege of getting to know both personally and professionally over the past 6 months. It’s a very interesting and diverse space to be a part of and the one overriding constant is the sincere passion my colleagues have for their roles and the genuine care they show to our students and those in the community.  STEPS plays a vital role in supporting young adults living with disabilities and STEPS Pathways College and its staff embodies this.

What traits and qualities do you admire in a leader?

Integrity and empathy are my top 2, a leader with drive, passion and a positive attitude always inspires their teams. I have been fortunate in my career to have had supportive leaders who remove hurdles, respect and value existing knowledge and who provides guidance and encouragement which allows professional and personal growth. Nurturing the future generations I feel is a privilege and sharing knowledge and experiences builds stronger teams which are built for long term success.

Have you always worked in the fund-raising space?

I haven’t always worked in fund raising but have been actively involved in raising funds for community from my school years. I was an interact leader in my school years and a former Miss Sunshine Coast in 1997 for the CPL (former Cerebral Palsy League, now Choice, Passion, Life) and continued to regularly raise funds for various charities such as Lions and Red Cross. My grandfather was a Charter member and District governor of the Maryborough Lions Club and life member of APEX. My Nan was president of the Maryborough Lioness club. So you could say it is in my blood!

How do you juggle being a busy career woman and being a Mum?

Lots of lists and weekly planning. It takes a village they say and that is true for us, we have grandparents close by which pitch in to get us across the line.  I have been known to provide a spreadsheet outlining hourly schedules!  I am fortunate to also work in a family friendly work environment which understands the healthy balance between work and family life.

And what’s next on the agenda for Bec Whitehouse?

On a professional note I will be reworking the STEPS charities strategic plans focusing on the road to recovery whilst being sensitive to community and continuing to be nimble and innovative in the Charity space.
On a personal note my Husband and our two beautiful children Poppy 9 and Oliver 11 are my life. I challenge myself every day to be the best version of myself and to prepare them take on the world and all it offers with confidence.

Favourite book and why?

Oh I love a good book that’s a tough one. One of my favourites would be The Power of Moments. It reminded me that we all have the power to transform ordinary experiences into unforgettable ones.

What’s one thing that you do for yourself every day?

Rise early and have a cup of tea soaking up the silence before the craziness of the day begins.

What mantra do you live by?

Be the best version of yourself every day and don’t sweat the small stuff.

To find out more about the STEPS Virtual Ball head to:

Website
http://www.stepsvirtualgrandwinterball.com.au/