Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Timeline
Generic

Tamara Smith

Kangaroo Point,Australia

Summary

Highly educated results-oriented leader with 15+ years of progressive experience driving significant growth and operational excellence across diverse sectors. Proven ability to lead and inspire high-performing teams, consistently exceeding targets and delivering exceptional ROI. Expertise encompasses strategic planning, partnership management, business development, and innovative solution implementation to expand market reach and enhance customer satisfaction. Adept at cultivating strong industry networks, navigating complex business environments, and optimising operational efficiency through process improvement and technology integration. Proven success in financial management, human resources, and fostering collaborative, high-performance workplace cultures. Seeks a C-suite leadership role leveraging extensive experience to drive substantial organisational impact.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

Advisory to the Board

Architects without Frontiers (AWF)
Brisbane , International
10.2024 - Current
  • Company Overview: AWF's impactful work, established in 1999, aligns with the Millennium Development Goals, focusing on poverty reduction, improved education, gender equality, health, and environmental sustainability within disadvantaged communities across 12 countries in the Asia-Pacific, Africa, and beyond.
  • In my capacity as advisor to the Architects Without Frontiers (AWF) board, I will provide strategic guidance to achieve the organisation's ambitious goal of completing 70 additional projects by 2030.
  • My advisory role will center on strategic planning, resource optimisation, and fostering impactful partnerships to ensure the successful delivery of projects that address these critical needs, using AWF's Results-Based Management framework.

National/General Manager Commercial Partnerships & Strategic Engagement

Royal Australian Institute of Architects
Brisbane, Australia
06.2021 - 03.2025
  • Successfully established and managed multi-year, seven-figure strategic commercial partnerships with key industry players, resulting in significant sales and revenue growth.
  • This involved developing and implementing innovative strategies to expand market reach and enhance customer satisfaction, while negotiating mutually beneficial contracts, and using performance metrics to track success.
  • Marketing efforts led to leveraging CRM systems, increasing brand visibility, and significant partner acquisition.
  • A strong industry network was cultivated, securing executive buy-in for collaborations, exceeding sales targets, and building a strong pipeline of prospective commercial partners.
  • All procedural documentation (strategies, risk assessments, marketing plans, guidelines) for the commercial partnerships department was created and maintained.
  • Maintained a large team over multiple departments, including the Institute's national CPD department, and led strategy and new product innovation.
  • Actively contributed to policy, education, advocacy, events, and programs.
  • Led First Nations training and support, and actively worked on Gender and Equality Committees.

Chief Executive Officer

Building Design Queensland
Brisbane, Australia
05.2018 - 06.2021
  • Provided comprehensive oversight of all association operations, from establishing foundational processes to managing daily functions encompassing insurance, legal, finance, marketing, events, IT, and membership.
  • Responsibilities included member recruitment and retention, legislative training, and a continuing professional development program.
  • Cultivated a positive team culture, managed staff development, and represented the association at various events.
  • Successfully directed research and development initiatives aligned with strategic goals, managed commercial partnerships, and implemented innovative sales and marketing strategies, culminating in a successful rebranding.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency through process redesign and technology integration, fostering team cohesion, and streamlined workflows.
  • Also oversaw and led key committees focused on gender and equity, First Nations, policy, education, advocacy, events, and membership.

Australasian HR and Office Manager

JET CONVERT contracted to XERO
Sunshine Coast, Australia
11.2016 - 05.2018
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive training and support programs, establishing pricing and policies that fostered a positive, productive work environment.
  • This included creating detailed policy manuals, integrating new project management software to streamline workflows, and implementing regular performance feedback mechanisms.
  • Successfully managed a team of over 50 staff, overseeing all aspects of human resources, from onboarding and training to performance management, and sales coaching.
  • Implemented revenue-generating strategies to align department performance with sales and profit targets, resulting in waste reduction and improved efficiency.
  • Effectively managed a senior marketing and sales team, serving as a liaison between management and staff, while overseeing marketing efforts across multiple channels, and ensuring full compliance with Workplace Health and Safety regulations.
  • KPI reporting and other administrative tasks were managed effectively.

Marketing Manager (6-month Contract)

Noosa Mazda / Noosa Hyundai
Sunshine Coast, Australia
05.2016 - 11.2016
  • Successfully captured new customers and enhanced offerings by optimising business strategies and launching diverse products.
  • Strong media relationships secured valuable press coverage, boosting sales through effective public relations, and targeted marketing campaigns (including product launches, rebranding, and promotions).
  • Detailed project documentation was maintained.
  • Collaboration with design and writing teams ensured consistent branding, while competitor analysis and engaging promotional materials drove sales performance.
  • Successful SEM, advertising, and PR campaigns generated significant demand and sales leads.

Building | Interior Designer - Lead Designer & Project Manager

Alphyn Construction Pty Ltd
Mackay, Australia
01.2014 - 01.2016
  • Managed all phases of building projects from initial design through to final construction, consistently delivering aesthetically pleasing, sustainable, and cost-effective results that exceeded client expectations.
  • This involved producing detailed drawings and specifications, ensuring adherence to all relevant regulations, and the client vision.
  • Successfully coordinated cross-functional teams, optimising workflows, and fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, including local authorities.
  • Implemented and enforced robust safety and quality control measures throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Leveraged project management software to effectively manage budgets, timelines, and resources, optimising project completion.
  • Actively reviewed contractor proposals and shop drawings, incorporating sustainable materials and design elements to enhance functionality and reduce costs.
  • Maintained clear and consistent communication with clients, integrating their feedback to ensure positive relationships and repeat business, while staying abreast of current industry trends through continuous professional development.

Director of Operations

Alphyn Construction Pty Ltd
Mackay, Australia
01.2010 - 01.2014
  • Provided overall leadership and direction for over 50 administrative staff and field personnel, ensuring seamless daily operations, and consistently exceeding profitability targets.
  • Successfully managed all business functions, including financial management (accounts, payroll, superannuation), project tracking and invoicing, human resources, and supply chain optimisation.
  • This involved meticulous job costing, efficient material ordering, and streamlined procurement processes, including securing necessary council approvals.
  • Implemented automated tracking systems to enhance supply chain efficiency and ensure property accuracy.
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive employee training and mentorship programs, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
  • Proactively identified and pursued new market opportunities to drive revenue growth and expansion.
  • Maintained a commitment to exceptional customer service, and conducted regular performance reviews and training to enhance collaboration and operational efficiency.

Office/HR Manager

The Cutting Station
Mackay, Australia
01.2009 - 07.2010
  • Provided comprehensive human resources management, encompassing all aspects from staff management (wages, scheduling, and rostering) to front-line operations, and marketing support.
  • Maintained full legal compliance through regular audits and policy updates, leveraging digital tools for effective payroll and benefits administration.
  • Cultivated a positive and productive work environment by prioritizing employee well-being, fostering strong interdepartmental communication, and addressing performance issues and employee concerns with professionalism and fairness.
  • Implemented robust HR policies and performance management systems, providing consistent coaching and feedback to enhance employee performance, and minimize process inefficiencies.
  • Developed and executed proactive talent acquisition strategies to attract and retain high-caliber professionals, coordinating technical training, personal development initiatives, and succession planning to ensure organizational leadership continuity.

Head of Commercial Sales

Agnes Building
Mackay, Australia
01.2006 - 01.2008
  • Maintained current market knowledge to inform effective sales strategies.
  • Boosted sales productivity by promoting current promotions, and negotiating favorable supplier terms to enhance profit margins.
  • Trained new employees, and engaged with customers to assess their needs and close deals successfully.
  • Collaborated with sales teams to identify new revenue opportunities and monitor post-sale service, expanding sales by reviewing existing services with current clients.
  • Established clear sales goals and built strong community relationships to support long-term growth, while effectively managing a diverse account portfolio across various industries.

Operations Manager

Lady Musgrave Reef Tours
The Town Of 1770, Australia
01.2002 - 01.2006
  • Managed all aspects of business operations, both in-office and on cruise ships, including staff management.
  • Successfully managed budgets and resources, ensuring profitability while maintaining budget adherence.
  • Handled EPA taxation, hiring, training, and staff mentoring, utilising the Res-Pack booking system.
  • Developed strong vendor relationships, and implemented quality assurance practices.
  • Coached new hires, provided constructive performance feedback, and reported organisational performance to senior stakeholders.
  • Enhanced team productivity through effective delegation and workflow oversight.

Education

Bachelor of Applied Management -

01.2021

Self Leadership, Supervision and DISC Personality Profiling Foundation Consulting -

01.2019

Diploma of Leadership and Management -

01.2018

Diploma of Business -

01.2017

Xero Certified Trainer -

01.2016

Diploma of Building & Interior Design -

01.2014

Advanced Certificate - BAS & Company Reporting, Payroll (Quick Books)

01.2011

Certificate of Professional Skills for The Executive Secretary -

National Institute of Management Training
01.2004

Bachelor of Media & Communications -

01.2001

Skills

  • Strategic planning
  • Project management
  • Contract negotiation
  • Performance metrics
  • Market analysis
  • Customer engagement
  • Risk assessment
  • Team leadership
  • Operational efficiency
  • Public speaking
  • Critical thinking
  • Financial analysis
  • Employee training
  • CRM management
  • Resource optimisation
  • Supervision and leadership
  • Conflict resolution
  • Policy development

References

  • Michael Linke, Australian Institute of Architects/CPA Australia, 0428 746 526
  • Neil Jones, Building Design Queensland, 0409 052 564
  • Jenny Woodward, Australian Institute of Architects CFO, 0409 467 551

Timeline

Advisory to the Board

Architects without Frontiers (AWF)
10.2024 - Current

National/General Manager Commercial Partnerships & Strategic Engagement

Royal Australian Institute of Architects
06.2021 - 03.2025

Chief Executive Officer

Building Design Queensland
05.2018 - 06.2021

Australasian HR and Office Manager

JET CONVERT contracted to XERO
11.2016 - 05.2018

Marketing Manager (6-month Contract)

Noosa Mazda / Noosa Hyundai
05.2016 - 11.2016

Building | Interior Designer - Lead Designer & Project Manager

Alphyn Construction Pty Ltd
01.2014 - 01.2016

Director of Operations

Alphyn Construction Pty Ltd
01.2010 - 01.2014

Office/HR Manager

The Cutting Station
01.2009 - 07.2010

Head of Commercial Sales

Agnes Building
01.2006 - 01.2008

Operations Manager

Lady Musgrave Reef Tours
01.2002 - 01.2006

Bachelor of Applied Management -

Self Leadership, Supervision and DISC Personality Profiling Foundation Consulting -

Diploma of Leadership and Management -

Diploma of Business -

Xero Certified Trainer -

Diploma of Building & Interior Design -

Advanced Certificate - BAS & Company Reporting, Payroll (Quick Books)

Certificate of Professional Skills for The Executive Secretary -

National Institute of Management Training

Bachelor of Media & Communications -

Similar Profiles

CREATE PROFILE
Tamara Smith