Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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DEBORAH DE JONG

Sydney,NSW

Summary

Accomplished professional in the architecture and design industry, adept at engaging with architects and designers through strategic planning and execution of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs, expos, product launches, lunches, and networking events. Recognized for building strong relationships and fostering connections.


Results-driven professional with extensive experience in overseeing state-wide operations. Known for enhancing operational efficiency and leading successful teams. Renowned for adaptability and commitment to achieving organisational goals through strategic planning and effective communication.


Experienced with national operational management, ensuring seamless execution of strategic initiatives. Utilises strong leadership to drive team performance and operational success. Track record of optimizing processes and fostering collaborative work environment.


Professional manager with strong background in leadership and operations. Proven ability to drive results through effective team collaboration and strategic planning. Skilled in optimizing resources, managing budgets, and adapting to changing business needs. Known for reliability, effective communication, and fostering high-performance culture.


Well-prepared and equiped to contribute and fulfill the role of Head Of Partnerships for the Australian Institute of Architects.

Overview

27
27
years of professional experience

Work History

NSW STATE MANAGER

SATARA LIVING
01.2024 - Current
  • Led strategic sales initiatives across NSW, focusing on engagement with the architectural and design community.
  • Developed and executed frequent in-house and online CPD (Continuing Professional Development) events, both formal and informal, tailored for architects and designers.
  • Strengthened relationships with key industry professionals to drive brand visibility and foster long-term partnerships.
  • Provided product knowledge sessions and educational programs to support the design community in specifying Satara’s offerings.
  • Managed business development strategies to expand market share within the A&D sector.
  • Oversaw showroom and event operations, ensuring seamless execution of industry networking events.

National Flagship Engagement Manager

GWA PTY LTD
04.2018 - 04.2023
  • Provided strategic leadership to drive engagement strategies across diverse channels, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives
  • Orchestrated and managed a series of dynamic weekly events tailored to architects, interior designers, and property developers
  • These events not only served as platforms for knowledge exchange but also facilitated meaningful networking opportunities within the industry
  • Demonstrated a keen sense of content creation by crafting compelling and relevant material that resonated deeply with the target audience
  • This included curating content highlighting cutting-edge industry trends, innovative concepts, and fostering a strong sense of community engagement
  • Leveraged exceptional logistical expertise to flawlessly execute engagement events, meticulously managing event logistics to ensure seamless operations and delivering exceptional participant experiences
  • Spearheaded both in-house and live-streamed Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs
  • These initiatives empowered industry professionals with access to the latest advancements, insights, and trends, contributing significantly to their ongoing growth and development
  • Under my leadership, the engagement initiatives fostered a profound and enduring sense of industry connectivity and collaboration
  • These efforts not only facilitated knowledge sharing but also cultivated a strong foundation for lasting relationships among industry professionals
  • Drove the facilitation of informative sessions on emerging industry trends and advancements, enabling professionals to remain at the forefront of industry developments and continuously expand their knowledge base
  • Demonstrated a profound understanding of engagement dynamics and the critical role it plays in fostering a vibrant industry ecosystem
  • My strategic leadership, meticulous event coordination, and unwavering commitment to professional growth collectively contributed to the remarkable success of our engagement initiatives as both a company and thought leaders
  • Notably, I navigated the retrenchment following the closure of the Sydney flagship store due to economic conditions
  • Despite this challenging circumstance, I took great pride in the thriving community of architects, designers, property developers, builders, and the broader public that I had developed during my tenure

Co-Founder

I BOUGHT HER FREEDOM
11.2015 - 03.2018
  • As a co-founder, I played an instrumental role in launching a pioneering e-commerce initiative that was rooted in the core mission of empowering marginalized women
  • This endeavor allowed me to deepen my understanding of the complexities of entrepreneurship while exercising my leadership skills to create a profound and lasting social impact
  • Beyond the confines of a typical role, I took on the responsibility of establishing and overseeing an autonomous organization that thrived with dedicated volunteer support
  • This encompassed strategic navigation of team dynamics, resource management, and alignment of strategic objectives to empower marginalized women
  • My involvement extended to critical areas including fundraising, marketing, and customer service
  • These multifaceted skills converged to not only sustain operational momentum but also spearhead efforts that generated funds explicitly dedicated to transforming the lives of marginalized women
  • Through strategic fundraising initiatives, I honed my skills in effective resource allocation, ensuring that every dollar contributed led to tangible and sustainable impact
  • This was further amplified by my ability to strategically position our initiative through targeted marketing efforts, effectively connecting with stakeholders who shared our vision for driving meaningful social change
  • The true heart of our initiative lay in our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service to our customer base
  • I firmly believe that the success of any initiative is built on a foundation of unyielding customer-centricity
  • We made it a priority to ensure that every interaction was marked by compassion, empathy, and an unwavering dedication to our cause
  • By skillfully blending an entrepreneurial spirit, astute leadership acumen, and a fervent passion for social progress, we not only co-founded an e-commerce initiative but also succeeded in cultivating a movement that continues to inspire positive change for marginalized women

Creative Director

PAGES EVENT HIRE
07.2014 - 11.2015
  • In a contract capacity, I was entrusted with the pivotal task of spearheading the inception and administration of a brand-new styling division at Pages Event Hire
  • This role required not only influence and guidance but also the ability to establish a successful venture from the ground up
  • As part of this endeavor, I assumed a central role in supervising product procurement for both bridal and large-scale events on a global scale
  • My extensive expertise in sourcing allowed me to meet the distinctive needs of our diverse clientele, orchestrating meticulous planning and execution to ensure the acquisition of products that aligned seamlessly with the unique demands of each event
  • This role necessitated adept navigation of complex event logistics, harmonizing multifaceted tasks, and inspiring cohesive teamwork
  • My proficiency in these areas played a pivotal role in consistently achieving successful outcomes and elevated the Pages Event Hire brand with a heightened level of distinction
  • This distinction became synonymous with exceptional execution and elevated client satisfaction
  • Additionally, my responsibilities extended to driving sales growth and enhancing customer engagement
  • I proactively prospected new business customers, meticulously prepared sales-focused plans, and effectively managed accounts to drive significant revenue growth
  • As part of this endeavor, I successfully launched new product lines and played an integral role in conducting staff training to ensure that our team remained poised for success

Private Interior Design Teacher

07.2013 - 07.2014
  • Channel my interior design teaching background to inspire and guide aspiring designers, tailoring lessons to individual learning styles and providing personalized feedback for continual growth
  • Embrace diverse teaching methods that cater to varied preferences, aiming to cultivate a passion for interior design and practical mastery of its principles
  • Cultivate an inclusive and engaging learning environment that encourages exploration, critical thinking, and artistic expression, fostering students' self-discovery and skill refinement
  • Privileged to contribute to their journey, empowering them to confidently navigate the world of interior design or create captivating spaces that reflect their unique vision

Interior Designer/Decorator/Renovator

PRIVATE RENOVATION COMPANY
01.1998 - 01.2005
  • Extensive expertise as an Interior Designer, Decorator, and Renovator, fostering a versatile skill set for exceptional project outcomes
  • Translate clients' aspirations into meticulously crafted designs that embody both form and function
  • Adept project management from inception to fruition, ensuring seamless execution and client satisfaction
  • Create spaces aligned with clients' preferences, eliciting emotive responses through purposeful design selections
  • Orchestrate environments that merge beauty and functionality, curating furnishings for visual harmony
  • Cultivate atmospheres that enhance surroundings and resonate with occupants' comfort and personalities
  • Dedicate efforts to rejuvenate existing spaces while seamlessly integrating innovation and preserving original design charm
  • Emphasize respect for architectural heritage and contribute to comprehensive transformations that merge timeless elegance with contemporary functionality

Education

Bachelor of Interior Design -

The School Of Colour & Design
03-1995

Skills

  • Architectural and Design Industry Engagement
  • CPD Program Development and Coordination
  • Event Planning and Execution
  • Relationship Building and Networking
  • Creative Content Development
  • Data Analysis and Reporting
  • Project Management
  • Collaboration and Teamwork

Timeline

NSW STATE MANAGER

SATARA LIVING
01.2024 - Current

National Flagship Engagement Manager

GWA PTY LTD
04.2018 - 04.2023

Co-Founder

I BOUGHT HER FREEDOM
11.2015 - 03.2018

Creative Director

PAGES EVENT HIRE
07.2014 - 11.2015

Private Interior Design Teacher

07.2013 - 07.2014

Interior Designer/Decorator/Renovator

PRIVATE RENOVATION COMPANY
01.1998 - 01.2005

Bachelor of Interior Design -

The School Of Colour & Design
DEBORAH DE JONG