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Sophie Theen
Author, NED, Startup COO/CPO |Keynote Speaker| STEM Mentor
Professional Background
Sophie Theen is an accomplished HR, Talent, and Operations Executive with an impressive career spanning multiple domains, including fintech, project management, and talent development. With her extensive experience, Sophie has made an indelible mark on organizations by enhancing their HR practices and driving initiatives that foster organizational growth and development. Her expertise is sought after in various capacities, having served as Chief People Officer at multiple companies and in key advisory roles. Sophie's passion for mental health advocacy and community building is evident through her active involvement in projects aimed at promoting mental wellness, particularly within startups. Her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) has established her as a changemaker in the business landscape.
Education and Achievements
Sophie's academic background is impressive, characterized by a determination to excel in her field. She holds an MBA in Business Administration and Management from the prestigious Melbourne Business School, which has equipped her with analytical and strategic thinking skills necessary for leadership roles. Additionally, she studied for her Master of Engineering (MEng) in Project Management specializing in Building Services and Construction at Victoria University, along with a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Monash University. These qualifications have laid a strong foundation for her multifaceted career, enabling her to bridge the gap between engineering concepts and business management effectively.
Sophie's experience has led her to be recognized as a standout leader in her industry, as evidenced by her multiple inclusions in the Innovate Finance Women in Fintech Powerlist from 2018 to 2021. This accolade celebrates women who have had a significant impact in the fintech sector and stands as a testament to her dedication and hard work in promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry. Beyond her professional achievements, Sophie is deeply involved in charitable organizations, notably serving as a board member of a mental health charity, where she helps to create a positive social impact through mental health initiatives.
Notable Roles and Contributions
Sophie’s professional journey is marked by her leadership roles in high-profile organizations. She has served as the Global Head of HR and Talent at 11
As a former Chief Customer Officer (CCO) and Chief People Officer (CPO) at Oakam Ltd, Sophie demonstrated her exceptional talent management and operational skills. Her contributions have gone beyond traditional HR responsibilities, focusing on aligning business objectives with transformative HR practices. She has also held roles such as RPO Recruitment Lead for APAC, UK/Ire at IBM, which honed her recruitment expertise and solidified her understanding of global talent dynamics.
Her varied experience as a fractional CPO at Ocean Bottle and chief people officer for other organizations underscores her versatility and aptitude for adapting to different business models and needs. Furthermore, her advisory roles at various startups illustrate her commitment to nurturing the next wave of leaders and organizations, providing insights that drive innovation and effectiveness in people practices.
Sophie's contribution to the startup ecosystem has been significant. As a founding member of Chief, her involvement indicates her commitment to supporting women leaders in navigating their careers while openly sharing experiences and mentoring fellow professionals. Her role as a startup advisor and founder coach with Chief of Stories is another highlight, where she has directly influenced the growth trajectories of emerging companies, emphasizing the importance of people in achieving success.
Moreover, Sophie’s advisory positions in mental health initiatives reinforce her dedicated approach to creating work environments that prioritize employee well-being. Her work in this sphere is crucial, especially in a time when workplace mental health has gained increasing attention in contemporary discussions.
Through participation on the board of organizations such as the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Sophie’s multifaceted interests reflect a holistic approach to leadership, combining her professional acumen with a deep concern for environmental and social sustainability.
Achievements
- Standout Leader: Recognized multiple times in the Innovate Finance Women in Fintech Powerlist (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021) for her contributions to the fintech industry.
- Mental Health Advocacy: Active board member of a mental health charity, connecting startup communities with resources and support.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion: Acknowledged as a DE&I leader and changemaker, driving forward inclusive workplace initiatives and policies across organizations.
- Founder and Advisor: Key role in founding notable organizations and initiatives that focus on leadership development, particularly for women in leadership positions.
- Global Impact: Extensive international experience managing HR and talent across different continents, enhancing her understanding of diverse work cultures.
Sophie's commitment to continuous learning and her relentless drive to innovate make her a respected figure in her industry. Her visionary approach to HR and operations continues to influence the future of work, ensuring that organizations are equipped to navigate the changing landscape of talent management and employee well-being.
