In this episode of the Investing for Life podcast, host Douglas Isles interviews a guest whose less than conventional career pathway has led her to oversee transformation of some of Sydney’s most treasured places.

Anita Mitchell was 17 years old when she began her environmental science university degree. Initially “horrified” at this pathway, her mother believed she was destined to tie herself to trees for a living (something Anita is yet to try, for the record). Despite being told she would waste her education and lack future financial security, Anita followed her passion.

Today, Anita has over 25 years’ experience in executive management, sustainability, social impact and corporate assurance spanning energy, water, waste, property and construction in both the public and private sectors. Having joined the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment as its inaugural Chief Executive of Placemaking NSW last year, Anita is now responsible for overseeing the management of Sydney’s most treasured places, including The Rocks, Darling Harbour and Sydney Olympic Park, among others.

Anita previously managed sustainability and environmental programs for one of Australia’s largest energy distributors, as well as the country’s largest water authority and waste management operator. She holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science, a Master of Environmental Management and an MBA – completed under full scholarship as ‘Australia’s top emerging leader and MBA scholar’, as selected by The University of Sydney and AFR BOSS magazine.

"Having an understanding of what you actually want to do, what the world needs and what you're good at is this sort of nexus of trying to find a career. I've got one of the best jobs in the world."

 

Listen to this conversation to:

- Hear how Anita navigated her parents' initial resistance to her pursuing her passions;

- Discover the ins and outs of her role as Chief Executive of Placemaking NSW, and what’s to come; 

- Hear Anita's reflections on how she has remained intellectually curious, adaptable and how she pushed herself to overcome career setbacks, including on her return to Australia; 

- Explore Anita's heartfelt account of losing her mum at a young age, and the lessons she’s learned as a result.

 

 

Investing for Life is hosted by Douglas Isles, Platinum Asset Management.

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