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Women’s economic empowerment is central to a gender equal world. When women are given equal opportunities to earn, learn and lead – entire communities thrive. The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress. 

While important progress has been made, women face significant obstacles to achieving equal participation in the economy. We can only overcome these hurdles, by having all genders participate in the blueprint for change. 

We're excited to present a panel of industry experts who not only discuss equality, but actively demonstrate it through fostering inclusive conversations. 

Susan Metcalf, former CEO and current member of Chief Executive Women, will be leading and facilitating the discussion. Susan has a vast array of experience in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, holding several senior roles across her career with a focus of achieving gender balance in leadership.

Dr Alex Birrell is the Co-Founder and an Executive Committee Member of Apropela (formerly Head Over Heels) an NFP, with the mission of eliminating gender discrimination and providing female leaders with the tools and network to grow their companies quickly.

Andrew Stevens, Chairman at Industry Innovation and Science Australia, is currently a Board Member of the Champions of Change: a group of CEOs and Company Directors focused on developing innovative strategies to achieve gender equality in the workplace.

David Albert is the Group Chief Executive Officer for Alberts which has played significant role in the evolution of Australia’s media and popular culture, with a strong focus on equality.


Event Details: 

Time: 12pm for 12:30pm. Our panel discussion will conclude by 2:00pm. Members and guests are welcome to continue conversations after this time.

Cost: $80pp including 2 courses (main + dessert) and Squadron wines.

Venue: Carabella Room
 

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If you are not an RSYS Member and wish to know more, please email [email protected]




Dr Alex Birrell 

Alex Birrell Co-Founder and Executive Committee Member of Apropela (formerly Head Over Heels) a not-for-profit organisation founded in 2010 with the mission of eliminating gender discrimination and providing female leaders with the tools and network to grow their companies quickly. Former CEO of CleanSpace Technology, Alex is responsible for overseeing the business develop into overseas markets and become an Australian leader in the respiratory sector globally.

Alex holds an MBA from UNSW Business School, a Doctor of Philosophy, PhD in Medicine, and a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Sydney.

She is currently a member of Chief Executive Women a foundation with a mission of female leaders empowering all women and a member of The Australian Industry Group.




Andrew Stevens

Andrew Stevens holds the role of Chairman at Industry Innovation and Science Australia, Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre Ltd, a director of MYOB Group Limited, Thorn Group Australia Limited, the Australian Chamber of Orchestra, the Greater Western Sydney Giants AFL Club and CEDA. Andrew is also a member of the Advisory Executive of the UNSW School of Business.

Andrew began his career at Price Waterhouse in 1981 after graduating from UNSW with a Degree in Commerce and advanced to manage the Asia Pacific consulting practice.

He is currently a member of the Male Champions of Change which is a group of CEOs and Company Directors focused on developing innovative strategies to achieve gender equality in the workplace. He is also a member of the Australian Defence Force’s Gender Equality Advisory Board.




David Albert

In 2004 David Albert joined the family B Corp-certified business Alberts taking on the role of Group CEO in 2010. David has been instrumental in growing the business, expanding its expertise, and embedding a positive impact throughout the organisation.

Prior to this role, Albert worked in global marketing at companies including Coca-Cola, Eastman Kodak and Kelloggs and with Australian telecommunications companies Optus and Telstra.

David holds an MBA from MGSM, a MasCategorization ters from the University of Massachusetts and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He is the co-chair of Support Act, a director of City Recital Hall, The Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron and Tixel, and is a member of the Armitage Associates and AirTree fund advisory committees.