Following our announcement of the Women in Defence Awards 2024 finalists, ADM will be introducing each of our amazing finalists across our categories in more detail. Today we are focusing on the finalists in Communications!
Judges were on the lookout for entries that exhibited excellence in delivering communications/marketing/stakeholder engagement beyond the expectations of their job description. The finalists conceived and/or implemented strategies in 2023 that were creative, original, and delivered exceptional outcomes for their organisation or client.
Many are also excellent ambassadors for Defence or Defence industry, championing Defence’s vision in their pursuits outside of work.
Sophie Calabretto
Senior Defence Scientist and Associate Director of the Defence Innovation Network, Defence Science and Technology Group, Department of Defence
In 2023, Sophie orchestrated pivotal connections between universities and Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), facilitating linkages between DSTG researchers and an external network of academic counterparts, mobilising projects that deliver cutting-edge innovation for Defence. Sophie’s leadership was exemplified in her management of DIN during the period in 2023 when DIN was without a director; despite this challenge, DIN not only met but exceeded its key performance indicators, securing an impressive $40 million in external investment into defence-relevant projects.
Sarah Cullens
Founder and Managing Director
Precision Public Affairs
Sarah is the Founder and Managing Director of Precision Public Affairs (PPA). Sarah’s major success in 2023 was the production of the 2nd Annual AIDN Policy Symposium & Sovereign Capability Showcase. With over 300 business representatives in attendance, and addresses by Defence portfolio Ministers and Opposition MPs, this annual event provided excellent marketing opportunities and engagement with policymakers for numerous Australian defence industry participants.
Mary Diab
Technical Director, Comms and Engagement
AECOM Australia Pty Ltd
Mary was seconded into the PFAS Independent Review Secretariat for four months as Lead Community and Engagement Consultant. Mary prioritised and delivered the Comprehensive Communication and Engagement Strategy within one week, and intense national consultation commenced two weeks after her secondment. Ultimately, the communication and engagement process she established ensured that all voices were heard and informed the review’s recommendations. The Review was delivered to government in April 2024.
Frances Langi
Communications Specialist OCRT Consulting
In 2023, Frances - a Communications Specialist at Doctrine Directorate (DD)- demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication as a Graphic Designer and Multimedia Technician. Her work garnered praise from senior leadership, including the Chief of the Defence Force. Her most notable achievement was supporting the CDF’s priority publication, where she facilitated discussions with junior Military members and created relatable caricatures and illustrations; she also enhanced DD’s digital presence, re-branded the Joint Warfare Development Branch’s logo, and provided graphic design support for numerous ADF publications.
Katherine Ziesing
Strategic Communications Manager
Hanwha Defence Australia
In 2023, Katherine was key in communicating the announcement of Hanwha’s selection as preferred tenderer for Land 400 Phase 3. Media monitoring confirmed that in the first 24 hours, over 1 billion people saw that announcement globally. Then, HDA had its total contracted vehicle numbers cut by 72 percent after the Defence Strategic Review; in response, Katherine developed the ‘HDA is Here to Stay’ campaign confirming the company’s long-term commitment to Australia. Katherine also volunteers and mentors for women’s participation through a range of forums – and is, of course, also the founder of the ADM Women in Defence Awards themselves.
