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Simone Clarke
CSR and NFP Executive - Sustainability - Transformation - Innovation
Professional Background
Simone Clarke is a distinguished executive leader with over 25 years of extensive experience in corporate sustainability, international development, and leadership within the for-purpose sector. With a rich background working across corporate entities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), and UN agencies in Australia, the USA, and the Asia Pacific, Simone has developed a unique skill set that marries strategic planning with operational execution in complex environments.
In her current role as the Executive Director of Australia and New Zealand at World Animal Protection ANZ, Simone leads initiatives that drive significant impact in animal welfare, directing efforts to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and resilience building. Her work is pivotal in aligning animal welfare practices with sustainable development goals, integrating ethical considerations within broader community and corporate frameworks.
Extensive Experience in International Development
Simone's professional journey includes a notable tenure as the General Manager of Employee Sustainability at Telstra, where she championed corporate social responsibility initiatives, fostering a culture of sustainability and ethical engagement among employees. This role allowed her to innovate within the corporate sector, promoting sustainable practices that resonate with both stakeholders and the wider community.
Prior to her role at Telstra, Simone excelled as the General Manager of Corporate Partnerships, Major Donors, Trusts, and Foundations at Mission Australia. Here, she leveraged her expertise in strategic philanthropy and corporate partnerships, developing and managing vital relationships that fuelled the organization's mission-driven programs. Her capacity for negotiation and relationship-building was further honed during her time at the Australian Football League as the General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Communications & Strategy, where she played an integral role in advocating for policy changes and advancing community engagement.
Simone's international experience is underscored by her previous leadership roles at Save the Children Alliance in the US as the Emergency Fundraising Director, and at UNICEF, where she served as the Deputy Chief of International & Corporate Partnerships. In these capacities, she was instrumental in mobilizing resources for critical humanitarian responses, fostering global advocacy initiatives, and enhancing strategic communications efforts.
Education and Achievements
Simone Clarke's academic background laid the foundation for her impressive career trajectory. She pursued a Bachelor of Arts with a focus on Communications at the University of Technology Sydney. This education has been integral in shaping her abilities in digital transformation, communications strategy, and stakeholder engagement.
In addition to her formal education, Simone is recognized as an accredited partnership broker. This certification reflects her proficiency in developing and implementing cross-sector partnerships that create mutual value and social impact. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated exceptional skills in team leadership, often mentoring and guiding teams in high-stakes international roles toward cohesive functionality and achieving strategic objectives.
Areas of Expertise
Simone possesses a robust portfolio of areas of expertise, including:
- Executive Leadership: With a strong ability to lead, inspire, and motivate teams across different sectors.
- Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility: Deep knowledge of how to implement sustainability initiatives within organizational frameworks.
- International Development: Expertise in navigating complex environments to foster effective development strategies.
- Change Management: Proven acumen in facilitating change within organizations to adapt to evolving market and social expectations.
- Corporate Affairs & Communications: Adept in managing corporate communications and marketing strategies that resonate with diverse stakeholders.
- Advocacy & Campaigning: Experienced in global advocacy efforts, policy influence, and community campaigning.
- Digital Transformation: Focus on technological innovation and digital strategies to enhance organizational effectiveness.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Skilled in building and maintaining relationships with essential stakeholders across sectors.
- Project Management: Proficient in managing multi-stakeholder projects toward successful outcomes.
Achievements
Simone's career is marked by numerous notable achievements that have significantly contributed to the sectors in which she has worked. She has effectively led global strategies that encompass business planning, governance, and risk management, always with an emphasis on social impact and sustainable development. Her leadership has not only driven organizational objectives but has also inspired positive change within communities, amplifying the voices of those in need and championing animal welfare globally.
Simone is highly regarded not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders. Her role as a collaborator and mentor has empowered individuals and teams, fostering an environment of learning and personal growth. This approach has proved invaluable in developing cooperative cultures within the organizations she has led.
In conclusion, Simone Clarke stands out as a dynamic leader within the corporate sustainability and international development sectors. Her diverse experience, strategic acumen, and strong commitment to social impact underscore her invaluable contribution to animal welfare and the broader not-for-profit landscape. As she continues to guide teams toward achieving mission-driven outcomes, her legacy is poised to inspire future leaders and catalyze meaningful change across the globe.