We recently spoke with Emma Grivell from City of Charles Sturt about her role as Business Engagement Advisor and her career to date.

What’s your role and what does it entail?

In my current role as Business Engagement Advisor, in City of Charles Sturt’s Economic Development team, my day-to-day centres around supporting our local business community. Some of the key elements of my role include developing business networking events, creating and implementing marketing strategies and campaigns, promotion of business support initiatives, and creating social media marketing content for business communication channels. Our team also works collaboratively with the Western Adelaide councils to promote our region as a tourism destination.

What is your proudest career moment?

I would have to say accepting a national award in my field – the ‘National Economic Development Australia - Rising Star Leadership Award 2022’. I had accepted many main street awards on behalf of a main street committee or council before, but that one was the cherry on top.

What do you enjoy most about working in local government?

Something I really love about local government is the loyalty and commitment within the industry. There are so many opportunities to learn and grow, through professional development and beyond. I really enjoy collaborating with a variety of departments and councils, which I have found to be a way to learn new things and the many facets of local government.

Who or what has inspired you in your career?

At the start of my career I was really inspired by marketing experts and my inspirations have evolved as my work has. Within local government I have been really inspired by females who have furthered their career and become strategic leaders. Recently I have been inspired by friends, family and peers who have done further study and juggled their working career to do this.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in your role?

My roles in local government and economic development have grown and evolved by asking lots of questions and putting my hand up to be involved in projects. My advice would be to say ‘yes’ to new initiatives and projects that take you outside of your comfort zone if starting out in a similar role. I would encourage anyone to learn, study, or attend events outside of work to network and think outside the box.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I love to exercise at the gym, reformer Pilates or walk my dog outdoors. I like to volunteer at events and assist with marketing for not-for-profits that I’m passionate about such as Business Chicks, Zahra Foundation, and Friends for Good. I enjoy cooking at home but love going out and trying new places to eat and experience.