May 7, 2019

Sadhana Smiles, CEO of Harcourts Group

We started our conversation with a question. Is diversity about gender balance? Not according to Sadhana. she believes we need to change our language around this issue.  Inclusion is about representing more than one national origin, color, religion, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation.  Diversity is about people who come in different packages – ethnicity, ability and sexuality.  We need to ask the hard questions of leaders and have them make brave decisions, calling out the conscious and unconscious biases that exist.  Through her firm and fair communication style she implores leaders to cut through the noise and act.  She says that doing nothing is a CHOICE!  She shared her belief that an organization will never outgrow their leadership and too many leaders are playing it safe. Business leaders need to ensure their organizations reflect the communities and clients they serve. The current lack of cultural diversity in many organizations in Australia highlights the need for organizations to implement targets to reduce the gaps, according to Sadhana.

Sadhana is a thought leader, industry commentator, corporate activist and a contemporary feminist.  Sadhana has been quoted as saying “I am a colored woman playing in a male dominated industry, earning my seat at the table through my results. Numbers never lie.”  Throughout our conversation she reiterated the importance of mastering your skills around balance sheets, profit & loss statements and which levers to pull in different business climates. 

Sadhana Smiles Book Recommendation;

She is a leader that is clear, determined and focused.  Thank you, Sadhana, for the thought provoking discussion.

1. The Invisible Entrepreneur by Louise Woodbury; You can transform your small to medium-sized business into a lucrative organization, without your day-to-day input. In short, you can be invisible.
2. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life by Mark Manson; There are only so many things we can give a f**k about, Manson says, so we need to figure out which ones really matter. A much-needed grab-you-by-the-shoulders-and-look-you-in-the-eye moment of real-talk, filled with entertaining stories and profane, ruthless humor,
3. The Naked CEO: The Truth You Need to Build a Big Life by Alex Malley; Gain insights from a successful CEO who’s lived a big life. Be inspired by his unabashed real-life stories. Learn how to dream big and have the courage to pursue your passions and be willing to fail in that quest. Take the practical tips and apply them to your own career.

• 

Carmel Mortell, Victorian Chairman, KPMG

Carmel is a senior partner at KPMG and the Victorian Chairman.  She joined KPMG in 1989 and has gained significant experience, which offers a unique perspective into both her industry and her role to advocate for minority voices in her organization and community. 

When I asked Carmel about the progress that has been made in Australia on gender equity, she pointed to the strategy and actions of these three organizations:

The 30% Club –  aims to develop a diverse pool of talent for all businesses through the efforts of its Chair and CEO members, who are committed to better gender balance at all levels of their organizations.

Women Corporate Directors – allows women leaders to connect with peers and advance visionary corporate governance. It also seeks to inspire and educate board leaders, training women for board service, providing board opportunities, and facilitating introductions to nominating committee chairs around the world.

Male Champions of Change – works with influential leaders to redefine men’s role in acting on gender inequality. It activates peer groups of influential male leaders, supports them to step up beside women, and drives the adoption of actions across private sector and government.

Carmel shared how each group plays to its strengths to move the conversation and actions for inclusion and diversity forward.  She also discussed the importance of using your voice through meaningful versus emotional conversation on the business case for inclusion and diversity.  It’s also important to encourage others to use their voices. You don’t want to always be the “squeaky wheel”.

As Carmel reflected on her career she talked about the importance of mentorship and sponsorship.  She also shared growth comes during adversity so don’t shy away from the “tough” assignments.