By Scott Parkin FIEP, IEP Global CEO
I have become a regular visitor to Australia in recent years, but the size and scale of this country never fails to amaze me.
After spending a fortnight criss-crossing the continent, meeting new and old friends, I can only marvel at the way Australian people defy the distances between them to build close connections.
What I continue to find on each visit is an employment sector made up of committed and big-hearted professionals, each dedicated to their industry and the people they serve.
But it is also possible to see the challenges the sector and its people face during a time of significant change, especially as providers await news of the next round of disability employment tenders.
That’s why the IEP’s mission in Australia is so important – utilising our fantastic local team and network of fellows and members to drive cultural and professional growth.
This is one of the IEP’s strengths – providing global insights with a distinctly Australian lens, delivered by our local team and Board, led by Andrew Hills FIEP, Lauren Peacock FIEP and Matt Crossingham MIEP.
It’s clear from my observations IEP is bringing people together to embrace shared opportunities, to collaborate and solve problems together. The conversations I had with colleagues right around Australia were open, transparent and full of great ideas.
I’ve returned to the UK confident in what IEP is doing and excited about our plans in Australia for the coming year – including more learning modules, more events and another IEP Summit.
I also head home slightly jealous of the Australian holiday season experience – I love the warmer weather and the opportunity many of you get to have a proper holiday break with your loved ones.
Thank you to our exceptional fellows, my hosts, the partners I hadn’t met before and the old friends I saw. You were, unfailingly, very generous with your time, and I look forward to being back soon.
