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In my early teens when asked “What do you want to do when you finish school?” the answer was easy and always the same: “I want to be a hotel manager”. So, after finishing year 12 I was accepted into Drysdale Hospitality College where I gained the Advance Diploma of Hospitality Business Management.

My first job after finishing my diploma was in Townsville in a five-star restaurant for a few months before I started working in hotels, and eventually, I secured a position as the functions manager at the Townsville Plaza. In 1999 I moved back to Tasmania to work as the functions manager at the Hobart Function and Conference Centre where I stayed for five years before deciding to open up my own small café - a big change!

I missed the industry and had met Paula Leishman through previous contacts, and here I am now, in what I would have to say is one of the best jobs I have ever had. My role at Leishman Associates is a new one. The company had never had a dedicated sponsorship and exhibition person before but they were seeing a real need for it in the industry. My day-to-day role is mainly selling sponsorship for the 20+ events we look after each year. I organise the trade exhibition for the events and make sure that all the clients’ needs are met at the events and that everybody walks away happy.

There is a great satisfaction in securing each and every sponsor. My colleagues joke about how I go in “all guns blazing” to secure a sponsor. I also arrange tours for the events - this all keeps me very busy (which is exactly how I like it).
I spend a fair bit of time on-site at the various events that we do. Having worked on the “other side” in the hospitality industry is a real advantage when I’m doing this.

Life at Leishman Associates is always fast paced and there is never a dull moment. While the job is very demanding and I sometimes get a ‘sinking’ feeling, I would not trade it for the world. I work with a great bunch of people and the support from management is fantastic. They really care about not only the development of the company but the professional development of the staff. I don’t know who was more excited about me winning the mice.net scholarship - me or Paula and Janine. I can see myself being here for a few years to come, if they will have me!

When I’m not at work or at an event I relax and unwind on our five acres, 20 minutes out of town (although I don’t get much time to relax with a five-year-old daughter and my husband’s paperwork to do). I do try to enjoy a glass of red after work!

SUPERVISORS COMMENT
“Renee is what you would call the ideal employee. The decision to hire her was not taken lightly, due to the fact that her experience was limited and there were some skill gaps evident. However, Renee’s commitment to her role, determination and self-management has made her a star in the office. Plus she would have to be one of the most positive people around, which helps as well.

“Whilst Leishman Associates are lucky to have Renee around, it’s our clients who are also reaping the rewards. Renee’s fabulous interpersonal and negotiation skills mean that she has exceeded all sponsorship and exhibition expectations for every client. When Renee gets a big sponsorship confirmed she will come bolting down the stairs and we all celebrate the success with her – that’s one of the other wonderful things about her. She is such a great dynamic to have in the team.”
- Janine Arnold, LEISHMAN ASSOCIATES