Gina Connolly
Broadbeach,QLD
Summary
A passionate Learning & Development and Community Engagement professional with over three decades of experience across hospitality, education, and people-centred service environments. I bring a unique blend of operational service understanding and emotionally intelligent leadership, shaped by a lifelong foundation in hospitality and extensive experience supporting individuals through highly personal and meaningful life moments. I am driven to create learning environments where people feel confident, capable, and inspired to deliver authentic, personalised experiences. Known for my ability to connect deeply with others, I design and deliver training that goes beyond process, while embedding culture, empathy, and human connection at the heart of service.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Founder & Grief Educator
Griefscape
Gold Coast, QLD
06.2021 - Current
- Developed a community-focused education business supporting individuals and professionals in navigating grief, loss, and resilience
- Designed and facilitated workshops that build emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and compassionate communication
- Created engaging learning experiences that foster connection, reflection, and personal growth
- Built strong partnerships to support shared learning and community impact
Teacher Support Manager
You Choose Youth Programs
Gold Coast, QLD
01.2021 - Current
- Developed teacher support materials to complement the delivery of education programs promoting youth safety and well-being
- Supported the development of safe, inclusive environments for young people
- Collaborated on initiatives focused on behavioural change and resilience
Regional Manager – Community Engagement (QLD)
InvoCare
Brisbane, QLD
03.2025 - 08.2025
- Led regional engagement strategy across 23 Queensland locations, strengthening community connection and brand trust
- Designed and delivered education and training initiatives to build staff capability in communication, empathy, and service delivery
- Partnered with leaders to embed a consistent, people-first service culture aligned to organisational values
- Supported onboarding and ongoing development of team members through shoulder to shoulder coaching and mentoring
- Developed tools and frameworks to enhance team confidence and client experience
- Contributed to future-focused learning and engagement strategies across the organisation
Community Education Liaison
Newhaven Funerals
Gold Coast, QLD
06.2020 - 06.2024
- Designed and delivered in excess of 35 education programs supporting families and care providers in understanding grief and end-of-life processes
- Played a key role in embedding a compassionate, personalised service culture
- Partnered with community organisations to develop resources and improve support networks
- Strengthened staff capability through guidance in communication, empathy, and client care.
Funeral Director & Service Coordinator
(Family Business)
Gold Coast, QLD
01.2000 - 01.2024
- Led highly tailored service delivery, ensuring each experience reflected individual needs, values, and cultural preferences
- Trained and mentored team members in service standards, communication, and emotional intelligence
- Managed complex logistics while maintaining calm, compassionate leadership in high-pressure environments
- Developed a deep understanding of personalised service - directly transferable to luxury hospitality
Primary Teacher
Queensland Education
Gold Coast, QLD
01.2009 - 01.2020
- Designed and delivered engaging, inclusive learning programs across diverse age groups and learning styles at more than 12 Gold Coast & Logan area schools
- Created safe, supportive environments that fostered confidence, growth, and belonging
- Adapted teaching strategies to meet individual learning needs
- Built strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues
Core Hospitality Experience
(Italian Family Restaurants | UK Tourism Sector | Hamilton Island Enterprises)
UK & Hamilton Island, The Whitsundays, Australia
1992 - 2001
- Developed strong foundations in hospitality operations and guest experience
- Delivered high-quality, personalised service in fast-paced environments
- Built an intuitive ability to anticipate needs and create meaningful guest interactions
- Gained early exposure to team coordination, service standards, and customer engagement
Education
Graduate Diploma - Primary Teaching
Griffith University
QLD2009
Bachelor of Science - European Business & Technology
Coventry University
Coventry, United KingdomSkills
- Learning & Development Strategy & Delivery
- Training Design, Facilitation & Coaching
- Onboarding & Culture Integration
- Leadership Development & Mentoring
- Community Engagement & Stakeholder Collaboration
- Emotional Intelligence & Empathy-Led Communication
- Program Development & Continuous Improvement
- Organisational Planning & Coordination
- Building Inclusive, High-Performing Teams
Affiliations
- Grief Education & Communication
- Mental Health First Aid Certificate
- Youth Advocacy & Suicide Prevention Programs
- Qld RSA
Timeline
Regional Manager – Community Engagement (QLD)
InvoCare
03.2025 - 08.2025
Founder & Grief Educator
Griefscape
06.2021 - Current
Teacher Support Manager
You Choose Youth Programs
01.2021 - Current
Community Education Liaison
Newhaven Funerals
06.2020 - 06.2024
Primary Teacher
Queensland Education
01.2009 - 01.2020
Funeral Director & Service Coordinator
(Family Business)
01.2000 - 01.2024
Core Hospitality Experience
(Italian Family Restaurants | UK Tourism Sector | Hamilton Island Enterprises)
1992 - 2001
Graduate Diploma - Primary Teaching
Griffith University
Bachelor of Science - European Business & Technology
Coventry University
Professional Values & Alignment to ANdAZ
- Deep commitment to creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and empowered
- Strong belief that exceptional service comes from authenticity, empathy, and connection
- Passion for fostering curiosity, growth, and collaboration across teams
- Dedicated to developing confident individuals who deliver meaningful and memorable experiences