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Mardi Stewart
Assistant Secretary, Communication, Commonwealth Department of Education, Skills & Employment
Professional Background
Mardi Stewart is a highly accomplished communications professional with extensive experience in public relations and strategic communications across various sectors, including government and healthcare. Currently serving as the Assistant Secretary of Communication at the Commonwealth Department of Education, Skills & Employment, Mardi brings a wealth of expertise and leadership skills to the table, focusing on enhancing public engagement and communication strategies to foster community relationships and improve educational outcomes.
Mardi's career journey is marked by a series of progressive roles within the Australian government, allowing her to develop a robust skill set in corporate communication and media. Prior to her current position, she worked as the Branch Manager of Communication at the Commonwealth Department of Education, where she was integral in directing outreach initiatives and media relations, ensuring that important information reached the public effectively.
Her previous role as the National Manager for People, Security & Integrity further underscores her capability in overseeing complex communication needs within governmental frameworks while safeguarding public interests. Notably, Mardi has a noteworthy history as a Manager in Corporate Communication and Media for the Australian Government, where her strategic insights contributed significantly to shaping the government's communication policies.
Mardi's expertise extends beyond government roles; she also holds a prestigious position as the Director of Strategic Communications at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship. Her responsibilities included overseeing the department's public relations strategies and ensuring compliance with Australia's communication regulations, demonstrating her commitment to integrity and ethical communication practices.
Throughout her career, Mardi excelled as a public relations consultant for notable clients such as Novartis and Cube PR. Her experience in private consultancy not only reflects her adaptability but also her proficiency in addressing diverse communication challenges faced by organizations. Furthermore, as a proud founder of Mardi Stewart Public Relations, she has been instrumental in helping brands communicate more effectively with their audiences.
Education and Achievements
Mardi Stewart possesses a solid educational foundation that perfectly complements her professional journey. She earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Public Administration from ANZSOG - The Australia and New Zealand School of Government, a reputable institution known for preparing leaders in the public sector. This advanced degree has equipped her with critical strategic thinking and management skills that she has utilized throughout her career.
In addition to her MBA, Mardi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, specializing in Public Relations, from the University of Canberra. Her educational background has provided her with a deep understanding of communication principles and the nuances of public relations, allowing her to navigate complex public narratives effectively. Her academic achievements have laid the groundwork for her impressive career in public service and communication.
Community Engagement and Impact
Mardi is deeply committed to community engagement, evidenced by her role as the Director of Community Drug Information Strategy at the NSW Premier's Department. In this capacity, she developed strategic initiatives to inform and educate the community about drug-related issues, emphasizing harm reduction and awareness. Her work has had a lasting impact on public health communication and continues to resonate within the community.
As Public Affairs Manager at the Sydney Children’s Hospital, Mardi played a crucial role in crafting communication strategies that highlighted the hospital's programs and services. Her efforts contributed to raising awareness and garnering support for vital pediatric health initiatives, showcasing her dedication to improving the lives of children and families.
Achievements
Mardi Stewart's career is marked by numerous achievements and accolades that exemplify her expertise and commitment to the field of public relations and communication. Her leadership in developing comprehensive communication strategies and managing high-stake public narratives has significantly enhanced the reputation and reach of the organizations she has worked with.
Her strategic approach to communication has not only improved public understanding of governmental policies but has also fostered trust and engagement within communities. Mardi’s ability to synthesize complex information into accessible communication has proven invaluable in her roles, allowing for clearer messaging and better public response.
Overall, Mardi Stewart stands out as a seasoned communications professional whose career reflects a profound dedication to public service and community engagement. Her educational achievements, combined with her extensive career in various communication roles, position her as a respected leader in the field, continually impacting the lives of many through effective communication strategies.
