Emma Macpherson Email & Phone Number

Melbiurne

Actually as project lead for the VSBA’s grant assurance program

I worked within a high-performing team supporting the strategic coordination of corporate reporting on behalf of the Schools and Regional Services (SRS) Deputy Secretary. I provided expert policy advice to senior management and executives, offering considered insights to inform decision-making processes and to drive strategic direction within the department. I aided in the development and implementation of strategic initiatives to enhance communication channels between the department, schools and the public to ensure transparent and timely dissemination of information. In this role, I proactively cultivated and nurtured positive relationships and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders to contribute to the culture of collaboration and engagement that supported the achievement of departmental goals and objectives. My role was to ensure the strategic alignment of key projects and policies with the overall goals and priorities of the department. I was heavily involved in the Operation and Governance division’s mid-cycle business plan and risk register review as well as leading the coordination of the 2023- 25 Annual Report across the SRS Group.

During this ongoing tenure, I supported a team of skilled professionals in delivering Accessible Buildings and Emergency Maintenance Programs, collaborating with a diverse range of multidisciplinary professionals to monitor performance and improve deliveries. I developed positive stakeholder relationships by engaging with school administrators, relevant government agencies and community organisations. By providing strategic insights and advice, I was able to drive innovation in accessibility and maintenance, identifying solutions for developing inclusive and safe school facilities. I am also responsible for drafting ministerial briefs with program achievements, milestones and targets, engaging with relevant stakeholders to provide timely MO updates regarding project progress. With my skill in written correspondence, I coordinated financial reporting for the Operations and Program branch to ensure accuracy in tracking programs’ expenditures and resource allocations.

In this role, I led a team of Project Officers, nurturing a collaborative and high-performing environment to ensure projects were delivered on time and successfully. By providing training, I enhanced team members' skills, fostering their growth within the organisation. I crafted accurate Ministerial Briefs, including crucial submissions to the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee (PAEC), aligning them with departmental goals. Leading cross-functional teams, I initiated research to innovate policy solutions for intricate educational challenges. Additionally, I presented strategic insights to branch executives and DET personnel, facilitating informed decision-making.

Within this role I undertook the responsibility of managing a diverse array of stakeholder inquiries. My commitment to ensuring swift and precise responses played a pivotal role in establishing transparent and efficient communication channels. I took a proactive stance in ensuring the accuracy of project reporting. Leveraging authoritative and well-supported advice, I contributed to well-informed decision-making and the thorough evaluation of programs. My dedication extended to fostering resilient relationships, particularly with schools, as a strategy to mitigate risks and collaboratively address challenges. This approach directly amplified the quality and success of program deliveries. As part of my role, I meticulously evaluated applications from schools for the Accessible Buildings (ABP) and Emergency Maintenance (EMP) programs. By providing evidence-based recommendations, I significantly contributed to the equitable allocation of resources and the overall effectiveness of the programs, ensuring they catered to diverse needs. An integral facet of my position involved serving as the primary conduit for Ministerial updates. Effectively distilling intricate information into concise and impactful briefs, I facilitated a seamless flow of clear and informed communication between the Response Program Unit and higher authorities. This allowed for efficient decision-making processes and ensured that our strategies remained closely aligned with the broader organisational vision.

In this role I engaged collaboratively with an array of internal and external stakeholders. My primary focus was on effectively overseeing and managing cleaning contracts for schools, consistently ensuring the maintenance of high standards of cleanliness and hygiene. In close partnership with the Procurement Officer, I delved into the integration of Social Procurement principles into the Metropolitan Cleaning Service Provider contracts. Through rigorous research and execution, we successfully introduced sustainable practices that not only elevated operational efficiency but also left a positive imprint on the community. I was also assigned with developing Ministerial responses, addressing inquiries and delivering accurate information to maintain transparent communication and facilitating well-informed decision-making processes. My dedication to precision and clarity played an essential role in maintaining open channels of dialogue. One of the notable achievements during this period was orchestrating the 2018/19 Regional Cleaning Compliance Audit. This comprehensive evaluation measured adherence to cleaning protocols and regulations, culminating in the implementation of corrective measures that harmonised with the overarching goal of enhancing operational efficiency. Through collaboration and commitment, I actively contributed to the Department of Education's mission of ensuring safe and conducive learning environments within schools.

During this tenure, I led planning for the Annual Pet Educator's Professional Development (PD) Conference. My responsibilities encompassed the management of every logistical facet, from coordinating inter-state group flights to arranging accommodations for the participation of a hundred attendees. Through research, I successfully secured the involvement of several esteemed guest speakers, elevating the conference's content by infusing it with diverse perspectives and expert insights regarding animal welfare. I navigated the contracting process for a prestigious Melbourne Conference Venue, ensuring an environment conducive to a comprehensive two-day program fostering a platform for meaningful knowledge exchange and collaborative interactions. Central to the success of the event was the creation of a dynamic two-day program. I meticulously curated a schedule that balanced enlightening sessions and interactive experiences, maximising participant engagement and facilitating impactful learning. By engaging in consultation, coordination, and meticulous arrangements, I facilitated the seamless attendance of participants from across the nation. This concerted effort culminated in a cohesive and impactful gathering that not only promoted cross-regional collaboration but also enabled robust knowledge sharing within the dynamic domain of animal welfare.

Within this role, I expertly managed both incoming and outgoing correspondences, sorting, logging and distributing communications to the appropriate stakeholders. With precision and professionalism, I drafted and edited official letters, memos, and reports on behalf of the Department. My commitment to maintaining high standards of clarity and adherence to departmental guidelines ensured that every piece of communication was a reflection of the department's professionalism. My responsibilities extended to conducting thorough research to gather pertinent information for crafting responses to inquiries. This approach guaranteed the accuracy and relevance of the content within our correspondence, contributing to the quality of our interactions. I actively engaged with cross-functional teams to gather inputs, verify facts, and facilitate the sharing of information. By streamlining communication processes within the department, I contributed to enhanced efficiency and cohesive teamwork. In addition, I diligently monitored and maintained comprehensive records of all correspondence activities. This included tracking follow-up actions, deadlines, and updates. These efforts ensured effective communication management and supported robust reporting processes.

As a Store Manager, I offered tailored and innovative travel solutions to the local community, leveraging expertise to create memorable and personalised experiences that catered to diverse customer preferences and needs. With my leadership position I was able to assume a mentor role by coaching and guiding novice travel consultants, equipping them with the skills to deliver outstanding customer service and exceed individual sales targets, nurturing a skilled and customer-centric team.

Graduate Certificate, Cybersecurity Governance And Risk Management

Education record

Professional Development Course, Project Management And Policy Development And Implementation

Bachelor Of Applied Science - Basc, Hospitality Administration/Management