LEAD FROM WITHIN LUNCH

MARCH 2025 || THE IVY SYDNEY

On March 12th, 2025, The Facilities Forum returned for our third sold-out event, the Lead From Within Lunch, hosted in the stunning Ivy Sunroom in Sydney. 

Timed to celebrate International Women’s Day, this event took a more personal turn, with our powerhouse speakers encouraging the women in the room to reflect on what it means to lead from within. 

Guided once again by our visionary founders – Lisa, Nora, and Sally – this special edition of The Facilities Forum invited us to pause and reflect. What drives us? How do we lead ourselves before we lead others? And how do we stay fuelled through it all? 

Our guest speakers answered those questions with vulnerability, clarity, and inspiration. 

  • "There was a lot that resonated, looking around the room you could see a lot of heads nodding. The working opportunities at these events are huge, and it really is a safe space for women."

    ~ Lacey – ISS Facility Services 

  • "It made you feel normal, it made you feel like you were part of a bigger core of people who have the same challenges and rewards that you have. The Facilities Forum helps women connect and gives us a different perspective. It’s amazing to see so many strong women who are so eager to boost other women up."

    ~ Petula – ISS Facility Services 

Lis Flett, Head of Legal at Aurora Energy (and former General Counsel at Cancer Council NSW), shared her perspective on love languages in business – unpacking how to feel seen, build strong team dynamics, and create cultures where everyone feels valued. With multiple awards under her belt and a cross-state career move while raising three kids, Lis reminded us that leadership is just as much about empathy as it is expertise. 

Noral Wild, CEO of Cushman & Wakefield ANZ, gave us a rare peek into the CEO mindset. With over 28 years in the real estate industry and leadership of 1,750 people across two countries, her “day in the life” talk highlighted how to stay grounded through challenges, remain focused on your vision, and lead with intention in fast-moving environments. 

Then came Robyn de Szoeke, Principal Deloitte Strategist and Advisor, whose words wrapped around the room like a hug. Drawing on 20+ years of workplace strategy and a lifetime of championing women (including her work with Dress for Success Sydney), Robyn’s message centred on resilience and kindness. She spoke powerfully about showing up for yourself on the tough days, protecting your energy, and learning to refill your cup before it’s empty. 

Of course, the venue – Ivy Sunroom – set the perfect tone: bright, open, and full of possibility. From the fresh, seasonal menu to the light-soaked atmosphere, it created the perfect backdrop for a day of real talk and deep connection. 

To everyone who joined us – thank you. Your honesty, energy, and willingness to connect created the kind of space we dream of. 

And to our incredible speakers, thank you for showing us what it really means to lead from within. 

The momentum is growing, and so is our mission. Here's to more conversations that start from the heart… and ripple into everything we do. 

“This is where leaders are made, where fresh ideas take flight, and where you can find your people.”

— Lisa, Nora & Sally

It's all about enriching your career and life through real talk and shared experiences! Register to join The Facilities Forum today! And start your journey with a community that cheers for your success and shares your joy.

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