Leigh Kirsty Minning

In June 2023, I assumed the role of Business Manager following over a decade of progressive experience as Operations, HR, and Cultural Manager, having initially joined the organisation in 2010 in an administrative capacity. Throughout my tenure, I have undertaken a broad spectrum of responsibilities, spanning operations management, HR, marketing, client relations, and internal communications. Serving as a critical liaison between practice management and the broader team, I have played a key role in developing and executing strategies that drive operational excellence, cultivate a positive organisational culture, and strengthen long-standing client relationships. My career at BrandCulture exemplifies my commitment to professional and personal growth, adaptability, and delivering high-impact results in an evolving business landscape. I have had the privilege of working on projects for a diverse portfolio of clients, including prominent organisations such as Telstra, AMP, NextSense, Lipman Constructions, ADCO, Transport for NSW, Kambala School, St Catherine’s School, Burwood Library, Wyong Hospital, Dubbo Hospital, North Melbourne Football Club, numerous local councils and more.

Key Responsibilities

• Overseeing and managing day-to-day operations to ensure smooth workflow and business continuity.
• Leading daily team meetings to address workflow, client requirements, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.
• Monitoring and evaluating team performance, setting benchmarks, and implementing improvement strategies to maximize efficiency.
• Managing and tracking project timelines, ensuring timely and successful delivery of client expectations and business objectives.
• Coordinating company-wide events, staff training programs, and conducting annual performance reviews to align individual performance with company goals.
• Overseeing studio management, ensuring optimal resource allocation, and maintaining an efficient workflow across teams.
• Handling comprehensive project management, including budgeting, resource planning, and monthly forecasting to meet financial targets.
• Leading and facilitating leadership meetings to review business strategies, operational efficiency, and company growth.
• Managing, optimizing, and continuously improving all operational systems, processes, and best practices to enhance business performance.
• Leading and facilitating client management to ensure exceptional service across each and every project.
• Creating a positive and authentic work environment for staff.

I joined the HLA team as an Office Manager in 2005 and was quickly promoted to Executive Assistant to the Director and Senior Agent within three months, due to my strong organisational skills and ability to manage complex schedules. In this high-profile role, I provided comprehensive administrative and executive support to the Director, who managed an elite roster of prominent writers, directors, and designers across the film, TV, and theatre industries. I took on a key role in conducting in-depth research on industry trends, clients’ potential opportunities, and market developments, which helped the Director make informed decisions regarding business strategies and client engagements. A significant part of my role involved cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with various funding bodies, award committees, initiatives, and fellowship programs. This helped secure prestigious grants, awards, and development opportunities for the agency’s clients, many of whom were celebrated industry leaders in their fields. I actively managed the award applications, process, grant submissions, and fellowship entries, working alongside the writers, directors, and designers to position their work for success.

This position also demanded discretion and confidentiality in managing sensitive information and handling the personal and professional affairs of high-profile clients, with a constant focus on delivering excellence in every aspect of client service and business support.

Key Responsibilities

• Managed and organised the Director’s complex schedule, coordinating high-level meetings with industry stakeholders, ensuring all communications and tasks were executed efficiently and professionally.
• Maintained consistent updates to the agency’s database, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
• Proofread and securely distributed confidential contracts and documents, ensuring meticulous attention to detail.
• Transmitted sensitive and confidential information with discretion and tact, upholding client trust and agency integrity at all times.
• Managed client communications, serving as the primary point of contact while the Director was overseas, ensuring seamless operations.
• Coordinated detailed travel and accommodation itineraries for high-profile clients, ensuring smooth logistics and comfort.
• Led the Amateur Rights Department, overseeing contract approvals, fee negotiations, inquiries, and invoicing, ensuring successful execution and delivery of productions.
• Conducted thorough research on upcoming projects and actively put forward clients for relevant grant opportunities.
• Engaged in script reading on behalf of agents and clients, attending client performances and theatre shows to stay informed of their work and assess potential opportunities.
• Ensured client CVs and profiles were consistently updated and well-presented online, showcasing their work accurately