In a year where ‘business as usual’ is anything but, AFR Boss reveals six of Australia’s most outstanding young leaders who excelled during the pandemic. The six have been crowned the 2021 Boss Young Executives in the awards program, now in its 18th year.
Run in conjunction with global leadership consulting firm Development Dimensions International (DDI), the six recipients, all under the age of 35, have been chosen for their strong leadership, business aptitude and emotional intelligence. The group, including five women, work across a wide range of sectors, from neo banking to waste management.
Set against the backdrop of ever-changing Covid-19 restrictions and shutdowns throughout the country, the judging process – including interviews and a CEO-for-a-day simulation exercise – was hosted virtually. Award recipients from NSW and Queensland assembled in Sydney for an in-person ceremony.
The six 2021 Boss Young Executives, who have been profiled during the week on afr.com.au and are featured in The Australian Financial Review are:
• Belinda Hogan, chief financial officer, 86 400
• Fahim Khondaker, partner of data analytics and insights, BDO
• Ellen MacDougal, chief operating officer, Steadfast Life
• Mirinda O’Gorman, general manager of Healthcare, LanternPay
• Tara Osborne, general manager of group strategy and investor relations, Bingo Industries
• Remya Ramesh, head of digital experience, Coles
Boss editor Sally Patten, said: “If this year’s crop of Boss Young Executives is anything to go by, Australian business is in good hands. Their business management skills are excellent and they demonstrate an ability to lead change, execute on a strategy and develop staff. These are qualities much needed in a world where ‘business as usual’ no longer exists.”
Bruce Watt, vice president of DDI, said: “This year’s cohort of accomplished, aspirational and purpose-driven young leaders inspires confidence in our future. They faced unprecedented challenges with the pandemic. They’ve shown us how the next generation can rise up to meet the challenges of a forever-changed business landscape with confidence and vision for a better future.”
The judges were Nerida Caesar, a director of Westpac, Bonnie Boezeman, the managing director of marketing consultancy Business Benefits International and Michael Rebelo, CEO of Publicis Groupe in Australia and New Zealand.
Top Image:
Top Row L-R: Belinda Hogan, Fahim Khondaker, Tara Osborne
Bottom Row L-R: Remya Ramesh, Ellen MacDougal, Mirinda O’Gorman