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Jo Hastings
Special Counsel Foundation, Philanthropy + Community Engagement at Macpherson Kelley
Professional Background
Jo Hastings is a dedicated professional with a profound background in philanthropy, law, and financial planning. After years of enriching experience in the philanthropic sphere, she has transitioned from her esteemed position as Principal of the Wills and Estates team in the Private Client division at Macpherson Kelley to embrace a newly created role as Special Counsel for Foundation, Philanthropy, and Community Engagement.
In her capacity as Special Counsel, Jo will focus on fostering robust connections between Macpherson Kelley, its employees, clients, and the communities surrounding its national offices. This pivotal role includes her stewardship of the Macpherson Kelley Foundation, an initiative designed to provide employees, clients, and referral partners with a streamlined approach to charitable giving, minimizing the administrative burdens typically associated with establishing their own charitable foundations.
Jo's vision involves not only the development of the Foundation but also guiding individuals in crafting their personal philanthropic journeys. By helping them establish named sub-funds, she empowers them to articulate their giving mission statements that resonate with their personal and family values. Her commitment to community engagement and philanthropy is evident through her plans to implement a framework that encourages volunteerism and pro bono opportunities among Macpherson Kelley employees, ultimately making a meaningful impact on both local and global communities.
Education and Achievements
Jo holds a robust educational background that supports her impressive career trajectory. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Law from Monash University, laying the groundwork for her legal practice. Jo pursued further specialization by studying a Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at the Securities Institute of Australia, alongside a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance and Investment, reinforcing her financial acumen crucial for her roles in estate planning and philanthropy.
In pursuit of her passion for philanthropy, Jo obtained a Master's Degree in Philanthropy and Social Investment from Swinburne University of Technology. This advanced degree significantly enhances her insight into the philanthropic landscape and her ability to guide others in effective charitable giving strategies. Her strong educational foundation is complemented by her extensive professional history in prestigious organizations.
Jo's professional journey includes significant appointments, starting as an Articled Clerk and first-year commercial lawyer at Maule James Preston/Stephen Maule and Partners. Over the years, she honed her expertise through strategic positions, such as Senior Estate Planner at Australian Executor Trustees Limited, Financial Adviser at Tynan Mackenzie, and the Estate Planning Manager at the National Australia Bank. Her proficiency in estate planning also flourished during her time as a Senior Associate for Wills and Estates at M+K Lawyers and as an Estate Planning Adviser for Private Clients at PwC.
Her extensive work in various capacities has uniquely positioned Jo to impact the philanthropic community positively.
Notable Achievements
- Leadership in Philanthropy: Jo Hastings leads the establishment of the Macpherson Kelley Foundation, which aims to simplify the process of charitable contributions while aligning with the values of donors. This Foundation represents a significant advancement in making philanthropy more accessible and managing philanthropic goals peacefully.
- Empowering Philanthropic Engagement: By formulating a strategic framework for employees to engage with the community through volunteering and pro bono efforts, Jo is set to drive transformative change that benefits both individuals and communities at large.
- Developing Infrastructure for Charitable Giving: Jo designs the infrastructure through which clients can manage their charitable contributions, enhancing their ability to invest in their communities through either named sub funds or independent foundations.
- Educational Impact: Through her academic pursuits and professional influences, Jo has contributed to shaping future leaders in philanthropy and community engagement.
- Diverse Legal Expertise: With a well-rounded experience in both legal and financial sectors, Jo is equipped to navigate the complexities of philanthropy, enabling her to help others achieve their charitable objectives effectively.
As Jo Hastings steps into her new role, her excitement about leveraging her expertise for the greater good shines through. Her profound understanding of philanthropy and community engagement gives her a unique vantage point to advocate for meaningful change. With her wealth of knowledge, extensive experience, and passion for community service, Jo is set to make lasting contributions to Macpherson Kelley and the wider community.
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Mesh is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Mesh beneficial.
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