Celebrating milestones

Celebrating milestones

Milestones can come in many different forms. For some, it might be their child’s first steps or first day at school. For others, it might be completing their first marathon or bachelor’s degree. For the people we spoke to, their milestones share a common theme – working at Marathon Health.

In the chaos of the day to day, we often forget to take a moment to reflect on where we’ve been and set intentions for where we want to go. So, we took the opportunity to speak with some staff who have been with us for over five years, to encourage them to reflect on their greatest career achievements and share their hopes for the future of the organisation they have called their workplace for many years.

Jenief (Project Manager – Commercial Services Southern) has seen tremendous career progression during her time with us. Her background is speech pathology, but her management experience set her on a different path.

“I started in a project officer role because there was no team in Albury at the time,” Jenief said.

As our Southern NDIS services grew, so did Jenief’s career. She transitioned into a portfolio manager, then into her current role sometime later.

“I have been able to use my strengths and have enjoyed adapting to the needs of the work environment, and I appreciate the opportunities I have been given,” Jenief said.

Rowena (Portfolio Manager – Human Resources) has been working at Marathon Health for seven years.

“I started as a Clinical Lead in Disability and Partners but as time went on, I found a love for Human Resources. So, I had an amazing opportunity to move away from a clinical orientated role into my current HR role, which really combines my two favorite things – people and strategy.”

Milestones should be celebrated and this one deserves a round of applause. Barbara (Clinical Lead – Strong Minds Western) will have worked at Marathon Health for 15 years this August.

“headspace offered me a psychology internship as I had just completed my psych post grad, I then landed a paid internship – which was like winning the lotto.

Over the next five years I would like to see Marathon Health continue to reach those in the community who have difficulty accessing support for chronic health conditions and mental health issues,” Barbara said.

Seven years and counting for Jess (General Manager – Strategy and Growth).

“I started with Marathon Health on a nine-month contract to look at NDIS opportunities, and I now lead business development – playing a strong role in supporting our Board to shape our future. I have continued to hone my big-picture thinking and communication skills and I have learned a lot about myself as a leader.”

Bonita (Centre Manager, headspace Lithgow) has been with headspace for six years and shows that professional and personal growth takes commitment and passion.

“I started as a volunteer and am now a Centre Manager. I have also completed my psychology degree and become a provisional psychologist all while managing several programs for headspace Lithgow.”

Bonnie would like to see our organisation continue to invest in the workforce and grow our services in regional communities.

Transitioning into a new role can be important for career growth. Clarissa (Team Lead – CPS), started in a business administration traineeship role 11 years ago and found that she was always intrigued by, and admired, the frontline staff who were out and about making a real difference with clients, so she pivoted in her career.

“I have enjoyed my time and I am grateful for so many different opportunities and support to increase my skills and knowledge.”

Working and exploring your passion areas is key to successful career progression. Alison (Credentialed Diabetes Educator), has been with us for 11 years and completed her post grad online during this time (moving from headspace management to diabetes support!)

“My passion lies with clients, and I was then fortunate to be given the opportunity to become a Diabetes Educator while I studied. I am now a Credentialled Diabetes Educator with the Primary Health team.”

Paul (Risk Advisor) knows how to take career risks to expand his knowledge and expertise. After 13 years at Marathon Health working in IT, last year he was looking for a new challenge and took the role as Risk Advisor.

“Over the years at Marathon Health, I have had the opportunity to extend my IT knowledge along with my understanding of corporate practices and governance frameworks.”

From volunteer to Team Lead, no one knows a career journey like Emily (Team Lead – Marketing and Communications).

Six years ago, Emily began her Marathon Health journey as a volunteer for headspace events and media. Fast forward to 2023 she’s now a manager and able to put her comms skills to good use.

“I wanted to use my communications degree to advocate for mental health awareness and help-seeking behaviour. Growing up regionally and at a time when mental health wasn’t spoken about (and we’re not talking that long ago!) I’ve always been passionate about creating awareness of mental health and support options.”

Acknowledging career highlights is important – for Alyssa (Portfolio Manager – Business Development), there have been many in her seven years at Marathon Health.

“I am most proud of seeing the programs that we have been successful in securing funding for come to life, thanks to our passionate frontline staff. These programs improve the lives of people living in communities across rural NSW and I am proud to be a part of that.”

Whether you are celebrating your six-month, two-year, or ten-year work milestone, it’s important to remember the progression of your career. Be sure to reminisce on where you started, celebrate where you are now, and look forward to what your career holds.

For career opportunities with Marathon Health click here.