Speakers

Penelope is a multi-degree qualified professional with 16 years’ experience in strategic and operational management, project and risk management, and governance and compliance. Penelope also demonstrates people management, organisational culture and communications skills across a wide demographic and range of disciplines.

During her 10.5 years of service in the Royal Australian Navy, Penelope undertook strategic level appointments in project, human resource, risk and emergency management, as well as being a member of the Australian Defence Force Investigative Service. Penelope can also boast the ability to drive an 8,500 tonne armed warship.

From 2010 to 2015, Penelope provided services for national and international clients in the government sector, mining and resources, oil and gas, public utilities, transport and civil construction as a consultant.

In June 2015, Penelope became the Chief Executive Officer of Energy Skills Queensland, the leading, independent, not-for-profit organisation providing innovative solutions to enable a skilled and safe energy industry.

Penelope is also the Founder and Chair of Women in Power whose mission is to promote and improve the electrical and electrotechnology industry by the advancement of women within it. She is also the Chair of the Queensland Electrical Safety Education Committee on behalf of the Electrical Safety Officer and a committee member of the National Association of Women in Construction.

Penelope is passionate about all causes and actively supports Womens Legal Services, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Domestic Violence as an Ambassador for White Ribbon Australia, mental health, Multiple Sclerosis, and the Heart Foundation.

Penelope has been recognised as an innovator in her field and receive accolades for her vision and entrepreneurship, including:

• 2016 Qld Telstra Business Woman of the Year - Social Enterprise and NFP

• 2016 APAC Insider CEO of the Year

• 2017 Pride of Australia Medal & Queensland Greats Awards Nominee 

• 2016/17 Finalist – Australian Leadership Excellence Awards

• 2016 Third Place Winner - Australian Centre for Leadership for Women Diversity Champion Award 

• 2016/17 Finalist – Brisbane Women in Business Awards 

• 2016/17 Finalist – Lord Mayors Business Awards: Young Business Person of the Year

• 2018 Finalist - Top 3 National Prime Ministers Awards for Entrepreneur of the Year

• 2017/19 Winner - National Women in Industry Social Leader of the Year, Mentor of the Year, Industry Advocate of the Year

• 2021 Winner - Lifeline Canberra Women of Spirit

• 2022 Winner - Women in Defence People and Culture.