Ep. 86    Ilana Atlas AO

Ilana Atlas is an exceptionally successful business woman....who still suffers from imposter syndrome. But she knows how to deal with it and she shares that secret with us. 

In fact Ilana shares a lot of her wisdom and advice on how to not only cope, but succeed in a constantly evolving work place.  And there's very few better qualified to give that wisdom and advice.

We cover a lot of things. For example, the courage it takes and the benefits of taking unexpected opportunities. The importance of learning by watching and listening as well as being well prepared yourself so others will take you very seriously. The aforementioned imposter syndrome and how Ilana has tamed that beast. The different styles of leadership.  The enormous benefits of getting involved in not for profit organisations (see below for reference to Jarwun). The importance of compassion and empathy in business. 

I was also fascinated in what she's learnt from leaders such as David Gonski (who she succeeded as Chair of Coca Cola Amatil), Frank Lowy (with whom she sat on the board of Westfield) and John Bell (founder of Bell Shakespeare, the Board of which Ilana Chaired).

Ilana has seen a huge change in corporate culture (which she acknowledges still needs a fair way to go). In fact, I'd venture to say she's been an integral part of that change in her 40 years of working life, the vast majority of which has been in senior and executive roles. Her advice on how we can achieve gender balance and level the playing field, will benefit everyone. 


Ilana refers to her work with Jawun - a place where corporate, government and philanthropic organisations come together with Indigenous people to affect real change. Have a look at their website. Fascinating reading. 

www.jawun.org.au

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