Having joined the school over four years ago during one of Melbourne’s COVID lockdowns, she navigated an unusual start, but her role has since grown into one she loves. From being the first point of contact for all ELC and Junior School families, to managing events on the campus no day is ever the same for Denise. It took some time to see the full operation of Fintona in action, but now, with the students well and truly back on campus, she feels fully immersed in the life of the school.
Tell us a bit about your career journey?
After completing my Bachelor of Business, I began my career as an Executive Assistant (EA), working with high-profile corporate companies for many years. My experience broadened when I became a Recruitment Consultant, but I eventually returned to my passion for administration and being an EA before I had children.
In the 90s, while raising our three young boys, my husband and I started an ICT consultancy business, which we grew during the Y2K era. As the Office Manager, I thrived in organising systems for greater efficiency; a passion that has been a consistent theme throughout my career as I love to find better ways of doing things. This drive led me to start my own business as a Professional Organiser, where I spent five years advising both businesses and families on streamlining systems and routines. These organisational skills have been integral to my role as Junior Campus Administrator at Fintona.
What skills are important for your role?
I liaise with many people which I love, so, so strong communication, and respect for others are vital; attention to detail and enjoying organising is very useful. In a school environment, being a mother also helps; having experience with children of all ages certainly comes in handy!
What appealed to you about working at Fintona?
For many years, I volunteered at my sons’ schools and kindergartens, serving on numerous committees. At one point, when all three boys were in primary school, I found myself at the school every day, volunteering in their classrooms. As my boys grew older, I grew to realise that I wanted to work in a school setting and be around children, particularly young children, so my role at Fintona on the Junior Campus is perfect My father was a school principal. and even though I deliberately chose a different career path I find it funny that I will end my career in a school.
What makes Fintona a special place to work?
Fintona is such a lovely place to work, thanks to the wonderful families and engaging students. The Junior Campus has a special atmosphere, and the sense of community is strong. I particularly appreciate how focused the staff are on supporting the girls in every possible way, helping them find their own path and ensuring their needs are met. It’s a small school, and Junior Campus is small comparatively also, which means we can offer that personal attention, and I love that all the staff know the girls so well.
What brings you happiness?
Friends and social connections and family mean everything to me. I’m happiest when spending time with my three sons, who are now all in their twenties. They’re incredibly close and hang out together every weekend, which brings me great joy. My two younger sons and I still enjoy outings together. Before retiring, my husband worked as a Project Manager, and together we like to think we ran a highly efficient household; I’m very thankful that all our sons have inherited some of our skills.