Jolanda Rotteveel

“The ingenuity of people’s ideas and communities inspire me to challenge my thinking and reimagine how I could see the world.”

What invigorates you creatively, spiritually or emotionally?

That’s an easy one, music! I sing with the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs. It challenges me creatively and singing is such a wonderful outlet. Although we have done many performances, I still pinch myself when we get to sing in the Sydney Opera House with amazing musicians and artists.

Which of our Keogh values speaks the loudest to you?

Curiosity. Listening and seeking to understand what is important. I love learning and exploring insights that will support people and organisations to be at their best.

What piques your curiosity or where do you seek out inspiration?

Travel and exploring. Getting to know new places, people and cultures inspires me. Seeing what people have been able to build and achieve. The ingenuity of people’s ideas and communities inspire me to challenge my thinking and reimagine how I could see the world. Closer to home I love the ocean – snorkelling, swimming, paddle boarding. You can get some of the best ideas when you’re in the water!

Could you tell us about somebody who has given you sage wisdom in the past?

In my first job I misunderstood some fine print which cost the team some extra money. Rather than getting upset, my leader at the time told me to consider this an investment in my learning. Such sage wisdom, and I have regularly shared this story with team members when things didn’t go to plan.

Another important life lesson for me would be “Life is not a dress rehearsal”. Make the most of every day, find out what you are passionate about and how you can make a difference.

Which projects have been the most meaningful to you and why?

Any project where my work had the right impact and enabled people and organisations to thrive. A recent example is the opening of two new offices after covid lockdowns. I was leading the change and employee experience stream, which started pre-COVID. I continued conversations throughout lockdown with the different teams and stakeholders on what they needed to thrive. We redesigned features to create the best possible experience. We created a place to work with people, where employees want to come to collaborate and connect with people, instead of an office where you go to work.

When, where, or with whom do you feel the most fulfilled?

With my family and friends. I am grateful to have two countries on opposite sides of the world that feels that I’m ‘at home’.

What is a little-known fact about you?

That although I’m Dutch, I don’t like cheese.