Yvonne Henry
Brisbane,Australia
Summary
A seasoned professional with extensive management experience primarily in marketing, corporate partnerships, and fundraising, spanning diverse industries such as government, arts and culture, not-for-profit, transport, utilities, hotels and conventions. Known for a collaborative and consultative leadership style, prioritising shared team success above all. A quiet communicator by nature, adept at fostering meaningful relationships and driving revenue generation through strategic initiatives.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Grants and Content Writer
Queensland Theatre
South Brisbane
09.2021 - Current
- Craft persuasive grant proposals, tenders, corporate partnership proposals and award submissions, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and priorities
- Research funding opportunities, tailoring proposals to match donor priorities and guidelines
- Identify and partner with organisations on grant and award submissions
- Nurture and maintain funder relationships
- Set realistic budgets and exceed revenue targets
- Acquittal reporting
- Creative writing for all Development-centric communications including donor publications, newsletters, promotional and event material.
Owner
Yvonne Henry Creative and SYS Creative Pty Ltd
Brisbane
12.2016 - Current
- Freelance marketing, content creation, branding, campaign management, proposal and grant writing, mentoring and promotional services
- Clients include State Library of Queensland, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Everybody Now!, Queensland Theatre, Access Arts, Cicada Film Festival, Restrung Festival, Force of Circumstance, The Nest Ensemble, Business South Bank, Stephen Henry Photography.
Marketing Manager
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC)
Brisbane
09.2019 - 04.2021
- Management of the brand refresh strategy for BCEC including implementation plan for the new visual identity and agency management
- Support Sales and Events teams with strategies to meet sales targets across corporate, national and international market segments
- Staff recruitment and supervision (one direct report)
- Marketing, website and digital strategy including recovery strategy during and post-COVID 2019/2020
- Sponsorship and partnership delivery including arts organisations, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and South Bank precinct partners
- Government and Industry liaison
- Content creation including media releases, newsletters, website, social media platforms, award submissions, proposals
- Support the implementation of BCEC’s strategic plan to realise the company’s vision in Brisbane, interstate and overseas
- Introduction of company policies and procedures.
General Manager
Southern Cross Soloists
South Brisbane
08.2018 - 09.2019
- Lead and manage operations of a small-medium not-for-profit performing arts company including three direct reports, contractors and volunteers and seven core national and international ensemble musicians
- Support Board of Directors through implementation of strategic plan including all responsibility for operations, marketing and development and philanthropy
- Recruit contractors and volunteers to realise the company’s concert program in Brisbane, interstate and overseas including regional tours
- Manage and deliver the 18th annual Bangalow Music Festival (4-days of concerts and workshops) with a record seven sell-out performances, achieving the company's first award nomination for a AMCOS APRA MUSIC ART AWARD in 2020 for Excellence in a Regional Area.
- Liaison with funding agencies, preparation, research and writing of grant and fund submissions
- Introduction of company policies and procedures
- Staff recruitment and supervision.
Interim Coordinator, Marketing
State Library of Queensland
South Brisbane
02.2018 - 07.2018
- Management of brand refresh strategy for State Library Queensland including implementation plan for new visual identity
- Strategies to meet onsite and online visitation targets across public programs, spaces and exhibitions
- Staff recruitment and supervision (up to five direct reports)
- Website and digital strategy including introduction of new onsite digital screens
- Sponsorship and partnership delivery including Brisbane Writers Festival, Out of the Box Festival and Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame
- Internship management
- Government and Industry liaison
- Speech writing.
Marketing and Audience Development Manager
Queensland Theatre
South Brisbane
05.2013 - 11.2016
- Successfully generated revenue through Box Office and diversified streams, exceeding previous records, notably achieving sell-out and highest-selling production records.
- Managed budgets effectively, leading to increased profitability and surpassed financial targets.
- Developed and executed comprehensive marketing and brand strategies, including successful rebranding initiatives and website rebuilds.
- Implemented audience development initiatives resulting in subscriber growth and enhanced retention rates.
- Orchestrated impactful campaigns, promotions, and merchandising efforts to drive engagement and sales.
- Conducted thorough market research and data analysis to inform strategic decision-making and optimize performance.
- Established and maintained strong relationships with agencies, suppliers, sponsors, and media partners, ensuring seamless collaboration and support.
- Played a key role in government and industry liaison activities, fostering positive relationships and securing support for organizational initiatives.
- Led internal communications efforts and provided supervision and mentorship to up to eight direct reports, fostering a collaborative and productive team environment.
- Supported the Development Department with successful grant, foundation, and fund submissions, contributing to sustained financial growth and sustainability.
Marketing Manager
Opera Queensland
Brisbane
01.2006 - 05.2013
- Achieved revenue growth through diverse streams, including Box Office sales, while spearheading the implementation of specific programs such as Opera First-Timers, Annual Campaign, Opera for One, and Under 30s.
- Developed and executed effective marketing and brand strategies, notably managing the Opera Queensland rebrand project and implementing the whole company Digital Strategy.
- Successfully increased subscriptions by a record 23% in 2008 and facilitated numerous season sell-outs in 2009, 2010, and 2012.
- Managed campaigns, promotions, and merchandising efforts alongside the development of Marketing Policies and Procedures, Corporate Identity Manual, and long-term Market Research strategy.
- Oversaw website and online marketing management, agency relationships, sponsorship activities, and philanthropy initiatives, including managing eight annual season launches.
- Conducted comprehensive market research and data analysis to inform strategic decision-making, while also facilitating internal communications and providing supervision to a team of two direct reports.
Marketing Manager
MetroLink Queensland now Brisbane Ferries
Brisbane
08.2004 - 12.2005
- Spearheaded the development and execution of a comprehensive Marketing Strategy for the Brisbane Ferry Service, fostering collaboration with key stakeholders such as Brisbane City Council, Translink, Tourism Queensland, Brisbane Marketing, Brisbane Airport Corporation, and Airtrain, resulting in increased ridership and enhanced brand visibility.
- Demonstrated adept stakeholder management skills, cultivating positive relationships and partnerships to support organizational objectives.
Conducted thorough Market Research to inform strategic decision-making and optimize service offerings, aligning with the needs and preferences of stakeholders. - Played a pivotal role in Corporate Reputation and Branding initiatives, including the introduction of a Ferry Ambassador Programme and an internal branding campaign, garnering support and buy-in from key stakeholders.
- Led successful campaigns, promotions, sponsorships, and merchandising efforts, collaborating closely with government entities, tourism boards, and industry partners.
- Implemented effective internal communications strategies, including the introduction of a monthly staff newsletter, Employee and Client Satisfaction Surveys, and staff recruitment and supervision of three direct reports, ensuring alignment with stakeholder expectations and organizational goals.
Corporate Communications Consultant
Powerlink Queensland
Brisbane
06.2003 - 07.2004
- Developed and executed communication strategies for planned infrastructure projects across Queensland, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement and alignment with organisational goals.
- Conducted comprehensive marketing and research initiatives to inform strategic decision-making and optimise performance.
- Managed community programs and sponsorships, including the oversight of a 3-year environmental sponsorship program, Greening Lockyer, fostering positive relationships with stakeholders.
- Played a key role in ministerial liaison, annual report development, corporate reputation, and branding initiatives, as well as issues management and website and agency management, ensuring cohesive brand representation and effective communication across all channels.
Publicist
Dendy Cinemas (Brisbane)
Brisbane
07.2002 - 06.2003
- Directed media liaison and publicity activities alongside artist management, ensuring seamless communication with press outlets to amplify exposure and coverage.
- Orchestrated marketing and branding initiatives for Dendy Cinemas and Films to elevate visibility and bolster the brand's image and offerings.
- Secured and managed sponsorships, cultivating partnerships within the film industry and across other sectors to bolster events and initiatives, while also overseeing event management for launches, festivals, and premieres to ensure flawless execution.
Corporate Communications Advisor
Corporate Communications, Counter Disaster and Rescue Services, Department of Emergency Services (Qld)
Brisbane
08.2002 - 06.2003
- Directed media relations at the State Disaster Coordination Centre, supporting state-wide launches and lead agency support for multiple disaster events.
- Produced monthly SES Newsletter with a readership of 25,000+ and articles for the Departmental publication, Emergency Update.
- Managed a $3 million sponsorship contract between Queensland Rescue helicopters and the RACQ.
- Orchestrated a media and advertising campaign for Queensland Cabinet's Proposed State Planning Policy, reaching 12 regions statewide over two weeks.
- Oversaw event management for Ministerial launches, conferences, and workshops.
- Acted as Principal Advisor for Corporate Communications, providing leadership during high-stakes crisis events.Media liaison officer for State Disaster Coordination Centre
Director of Communications
Carlton Group of Hotels (Australia/New Zealand properties) and Carlton Crest Hotel - Brisbane
Australia And New Zealand Based In Brisbane
08.1996 - 06.2002
- Orchestrated national advertising tenders for the Group of Hotels across Brisbane, Sydney, Parramatta, Melbourne, and Darwin properties, bolstering brand visibility and market reach.
- Developed and analysed campaigns, driving measurable results and optimising strategies promotional partnerships with companies including ACP Publishing and Pauls Ltd.
- Oversaw national media management for the Group of Hotels, including releases, publicity, national and international industry award submissions and strategies, enhancing brand recognition and reputation management.
- Directed marketing and research efforts, contributing to informed decision-making and targeted promotional activities for the Carlton Hotel Parramatta and Carlton Darwin acquisitions.
- Administered Marketing/Public Relations budgets and developed comprehensive business and marketing plans, ensuring efficient resource allocation and strategic alignment for various Newscorp/The Courier-Mail events.
- Spearheaded corporate sponsorships acquisition and retention, including partnerships with major events such as the Brisbane International Film Festival, Brisbane Marketing, Events Queensland and Arts Queensland, bolstering brand association and community engagement.
State Operations Co-ordinator - MAA
Queensland Spastic Welfare League Now CPL
Brisbane
03.1994 - 07.1996
- Corporate sponsorships (retention and acquisition)
- Media liaison, press releases and publicity
- Custodian of MAA brand and marketing strategy
- Special events including State Telecasts and fundraising galas
- Regional and State Awards Presentation ceremonies
- Coordination and management of Miss Queensland and Miss Australia State Tour itineraries
- Development and coordination of conferences, workshops and professional development for participants
- State Tour leader
- Supervision of fundraising administrative staff and volunteers
- Supervision, recruitment and training of volunteer fundraisers.
Education
Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) -
Queensland University of Technology
Brisbane, QLD01.1994
Bachelor of Business (Public Administration) - Government, Advertising
Queensland University of Technology
Brisbane, QLD01.1990
Senior -
All Hallows School
Brisbane, QLD12.1986
Skills
- Professional, goal orientated individual with a developed self-discipline and focus on achieving a competitive edge
- Ability to establish, manage and control budgets and costs with expectations of exceeding company and personal goals
- Proven ability to plan, implement and execute projects through to completion
- Excellent communication, leadership and people skills, focused on establishing trust and motivation
- Creative - experience in rebranding, campaign development and implementation, grant proposals and tenders, content creation, joint promotions, leveraging sponsorships, private and corporate giving, events and advertising, and innovative programs including revenue generation
- Decisive - ability to decipher information, consult and action accordingly
- Skilled in building and nurturing teams, adept at mentoring individuals, and dedicated to fostering cohesive team dynamics, recognising these elements as essential pillars for achieving shared success
- Experience in implementing comprehensive strategies for risk and reputation management, ensuring organisational resilience and maintaining stakeholder trust
- A composed approach to problem-solving and crisis communications, providing invaluable support to others during challenging situations
General Interests
- Renovation and landscaping
- Furniture restoration and sewing
- Film and performing arts
- Travel
- Environment, sustainability and land care
- Animal welfare
- Current affairs and social justice
- Photography asssistant
Address
- 23 Calca Crescent, Ferny Hills, Brisbane, 4055
- PO Box 3034, Newmarket, Brisbane, AUSTRALIA, 4051
References
- Amanda Jolly, Executive Director, Queensland Theatre, 0419 749 787, Colleague, Direct Supervisor and Mentor
- Chris Mangin, Chris Mangin and Associates, 0417 631 201 or (07) 3300 6692, Direct supervisor at Opera Queensland (Former CEO/Artistic Director)
- Gail Sawyer, Group Director of Communications (ASM Global) and Marketing and Communications Manager (Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre), 0439 733 509, Direct supervisor
- Marg O’Donnell, Consultant, Board Director and Mentor, 0400 457 557, Mentor and industry colleague (Past Director-General of Arts Queensland, Chair and Director on state and national Boards)
- Rod Howard, Manager, Marketing and Communications, State Library of Queensland, 0481 180 689, Direct supervisor
- Sue Donnelly, Executive Director, Belvoir Theatre, 0411 404 480, Direct supervisor at Queensland Theatre (Former Executive Director)
Timeline
Grants and Content Writer
Queensland Theatre
09.2021 - Current
Marketing Manager
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC)
09.2019 - 04.2021
General Manager
Southern Cross Soloists
08.2018 - 09.2019
Interim Coordinator, Marketing
State Library of Queensland
02.2018 - 07.2018
Owner
Yvonne Henry Creative and SYS Creative Pty Ltd
12.2016 - Current
Marketing and Audience Development Manager
Queensland Theatre
05.2013 - 11.2016
Marketing Manager
Opera Queensland
01.2006 - 05.2013
Marketing Manager
MetroLink Queensland now Brisbane Ferries
08.2004 - 12.2005
Corporate Communications Consultant
Powerlink Queensland
06.2003 - 07.2004
Corporate Communications Advisor
Corporate Communications, Counter Disaster and Rescue Services, Department of Emergency Services (Qld)
08.2002 - 06.2003
Publicist
Dendy Cinemas (Brisbane)
07.2002 - 06.2003
Director of Communications
Carlton Group of Hotels (Australia/New Zealand properties) and Carlton Crest Hotel - Brisbane
08.1996 - 06.2002
State Operations Co-ordinator - MAA
Queensland Spastic Welfare League Now CPL
03.1994 - 07.1996
Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) -
Queensland University of Technology
Bachelor of Business (Public Administration) - Government, Advertising
Queensland University of Technology
Senior -
All Hallows School