PROXIMITY - Key Persons
Experience
Aarti is an experienced program and project specialist with over 15 years of experience working across multiple Commonwealth agencies. She brings local expertise in managing policy and program challenges and has extensive experience in project management, stakeholder engagement, strategic communication and innovation.
Aarti has spent many years in Service Delivery and Policy Government agencies where she has been responsible for:
Contributing significantly to change management and building relationships with key stakeholders across all tiers of government to drive the implementation of programs.
Developing strategic communications and strategies to a range of key stakeholders and executives, to support business goals and proactively manage reputational issues.
Leading transformational and innovative initiatives to deliver efficiencies and improving the experience of customers through digital solutions.
Aarti delivers quality outcomes on time and within budget and has experience at providing effective strategic advice and operational intelligence to the senior executive levels across several Australian Government agencies. Aarti confidently articulates information to stakeholders from diverse cultural backgrounds including Indigenous communities.
Aarti's strengths are in business transformation, project management, strategic analysis, change management, complex stakeholder engagement, and assessing organisational impacts, risks and benefits within the broader environment.
Aarti is married to Shay and has two girls and a very talkative husky.
Education
Bachelor of Commerce University of Canberra
Masters of Business Administration University of Canberra
Qualifications, Courses and Certificates
Job Titles:
- Assistant Manager - Client Engagement
Experience
Aishah is an Assistant Manager in our Client Engagement team.
Aishah brings vast experience from a range of roles in the media, and airline industry and most recently the not-for-profit sector. She is an energetic self-starter who is highly motivated, resourceful and believes that collaboration is key in achieving innovative solutions.
Aishah is a proud mother of two fun-loving boys Mika and Emir. She is married to Christian, and they both enjoy traveling and cooking.
Proximity Advisory Services Pty Ltd
Job Titles:
- Manager - Executive and Business Support
Experience
Alison brings a wealth of experience to Proximity gained over 15 years' working as an early childhood and primary school teacher in both public and private schools in Canberra.
Alison has excellent interpersonal and organisational skills, and an outcome-focused approach to all tasks, gained after teaching in challenging classroom environments.
Alison's role at Proximity has an office and facilities focus and includes working with third party suppliers, support and wellbeing for our teams, conducting market analysis, assisting with in-house and external events and panel administration. Alison also provides general support to her colleagues as required.
Alison enjoys a challenge and her friendly and approachable manner ensures she effectively works with all staff to complete projects no matter how small or large.
Alison is married to James and has two incredible boys who keep her busy and cheering from the sidelines of their Aussie Rules, soccer and cricket games. She loves to read, cook and bake, and collects vintage Royal Albert teacups.
Amelia joined Proximity following a successful thirteen-year career working in the national security field for the Federal Government, where she developed exceptional stakeholder engagement and communication skills, built strong working relationships with clients and colleagues across industry and government, and led teams that achieved exceptional results in a high-performing environment.
Amelia is an award-winning manager who was commended for her work successfully designing and implementing a bespoke workflow management system, where she was commended for displaying superior levels of dedication, commitment and enthusiasm. Amelia works collaboratively in a fast-paced environment and comfortably balances competing priorities to deliver the best outcome.
Experience
Over his 25 years in consulting, Andrew has combined an excellent grasp of technology with strategic thinking skills, and capacity to effect change through people.
Andrew is an experienced executive with a proven track record in designing and delivering major ICT and digital transformation programs. Andrew combines a strong understanding of business value from his experience in strategy development with expertise in rapidly emerging digital technologies, such as AI, Blockchain and IoT.
Andrew's consulting career has included: designing and negotiating large tech-driven program, and delivering large systems integration programs working on the client side or as a Systems Integrator.
More recently, Andrew ran IBM's Services business for Australia and New Zealand with some 1,000 technology-related. This role has given him the insight and experience with software and hardware vendors to facilitate good outcomes for clients.
His recent clients include: Telstra, Australian Tax Office, ANZ Bank, NSW Government, Siam Commercial Bank and State Bank of India. Andrew led the Enterprise Agile program at one of Australia's largest financial services institutions.
Andrew has received industry, analyst and media recognition for his work across the Asian region. He has spoken at conferences on topics including: AI Demystified, IoT Application to Industry, Enterprise Agility and Leading a Digital Transformation. He has also lectured at the MBA Program at UTS.
Experience
Andrew is an experienced consultant with expertise in business strategy, organisational improvement, program design and delivery, contract management and procurement.
He is an outstanding communicator, relationship builder and stakeholder manager, possessing both public and private sector experience. He has worked with national and foreign governments, multinational and domestic industry, and various not-for-profit and research organisations.
His unique skill set is often applied in organisations seeking to innovate, improve performance and navigate complex challenges. Andrew is a natural problem solver and has a strong track record delivering exceptional results of local, national and international significance.
Andrew is passionate about projects that deliver positive societal outcomes and lift organisational capability especially in the areas of renewable energy, sustainability, and education.
When not working, Andrew enjoys time with his family and friends, being out and about in the great outdoors (walking his pampered Cavoodle, cycling, surfing and fishing), and sampling good food and wines.
Education
Graduate Certificate Business Management University New South Wales (AGSM), 2020
Masters of Science (Renewable Energy)Murdoch University, 2008
Diploma of Education New England University, 2001
Bachelor of Science University of Sydney, 1998
Job Titles:
- Manager - Executive and Business Support
- Member of the Executive Business
Experience
Angela is a member of the Executive Business and Support team. She has excellent communication and interpersonal skills developed through her many years working as a Tour Guide throughout different parts of Australia including Uluru, Kakadu, Tasmania and the Kimberley. She has experience working for non-for profit and indigenous organisations specialising in project and tourism management.
She has previously worked as a Client Service Officer and Advisor for the National Australia Bank and State Super Financial Services with a key focus on customer support, organisation and office management.
Angela has a passion for travel, the environment and her family. She recently celebrated the 1st birthday of her daughter, Evie and is engaged to be married to her partner Jake in the coming year!
Proximity Advisory Services Pty Ltd
Experience
Anita has extensive procurement experience gained by conducting end to end procurements and providing procurement advisory across roles in the private and public sectors as an APS employee and as a consultant for a wide range of categories including ICT, maritime, aviation, border security, infrastructure and facilities.
Anita is passionate about assisting her clients to achieve strategic value for money outcomes and sharing her knowledge with clients to increase internal procurement expertise.
Anita holds a Certificate IV in Government (Procurement and Contracting), as well as a Diploma in Procurement and Supply, and is currently studying an Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply.
Anita is an ACT committee member for the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply.
Anita loves the great outdoors, and most weekends can be found exploring different hikes with friends.
Experience
Anthony Lawrie is a policy, legislation and entity establishment specialist with over two decades' experience delivering reform in the justice, integrity, social policy and environment portfolios.
Anthony has extensive experience delivering complex legislative change. He prioritises genuine, structured engagement, and quickly builds rapport with government, legal, community and industry stakeholders. Anthony is known for navigating sensitive policy issues, finding innovative solutions, and bringing clarity to complex reform projects.
Anthony has led and supported multi-disciplinary teams to create new, high-profile public entities in the integrity, family violence and emergency management areas. He understands the pressures of implementing high-profile institutional change, and that success depends on getting the right organisational design, governance, people and infrastructure in place.
Anthony has deep strategic policy expertise. He is experienced in providing policy advice to Ministers, conducting statutory reviews, drafting public and stakeholder consultation papers, participating in intergovernmental forums and working at Royal Commissions. His strategic thinking and strong analytical and communication skills cut through complexity to deliver clear and reasoned advice and reports.
The common thread across Anthony's diverse public and private sector career is his commitment to reform to create fairer, safer and more inclusive communities.
Anthony spends his spare time with family and friends, preferably hiking, trail running, mountain biking or on the tennis court.
Education
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)University of Melbourne, 2000
Bachelor of Arts (Honours)University of Melbourne, 2000
Experience
Arna is originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, and moved to Canberra in 2008.
Arna has a Bachelor of Commerce and Management in Accounting and has over 20 years experience in various business models, including tourism ventures, not for profits, Federal Government and private enterprise.
Arna's first career was in hospitality and tourism fields, spending many years involved in the ski industry in Australia and New Zealand.
Arna is a keen road cyclist, artist, fabric crafter and loves border collies.
Education
Commerce and Management Lincoln University, 1999
Qualifications, Courses and Certificates
Job Titles:
- Group Manager - Client Engagement
- Group Manager in Proximity 's Client Engagement Team
Experience
Asha is a Group Manager in Proximity's Client Engagement Team. She brings over 18 years of professional services marketing experience having held business development and client relationship roles with several multinational legal firms, including DLA Piper in Hong Kong and MinterEllison. Most recently, she was Director Client Development at the Australian Government Solicitor.
Asha holds a Bachelor of Communications (Public Relations and Marketing) from the University of Canberra.
Asha is married to Ryan and has two young children, Annabel and Harry. Having recently embarked on an extensive home renovation project, Asha has a newly found passion for interior design. When she's not wrangling the kids, she can be found trawling through Pinterest and design magazines for inspiration.
Job Titles:
- Expert Advisor
- National Sector Lead - National Security and Home Affairs
- Presiding Member on the Legal
Experience
Briony has over 20 years of experience working for the Australian Government in national security, international security, defence and transnational crime.
Briony delivers valued legal advice and general advisory work on sensitive and high-profile matters and has led successful policy and capability initiatives.
Briony has strong representational and negotiation skills, having worked, or presented in various international fora and committees.
Briony is skilled in analysing information from a strategic viewpoint, identifying all risks, challenges and limiting barriers.
Briony holds a number of degrees including a Master of Laws from the Australian National University and a Master of Politics and Policy from Deakin University.
Briony is a presiding member on the Legal Aid Review Committee of the Australian Capital Territory.
Briony is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is a board member of a charitable organisation invested in providing educational and vocational outcomes for Indigenous youth.
When not engaged in her children's sporting activities, Briony enjoys training at the gym, being on the water and going on adventures with her family and friends.
Education
Master of Politics and Policy Deakin University, 2019
Master of Laws Australian National University, 2014
National Security Law Institute University of Virginia, 2013
Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice Australian National University, 2007
Bachelor of Laws University of New South Wales, 2005
Experience
Bruce is a highly experienced government lawyer.
Bruce has particular expertise in the areas of enforcement and regulation, probity frameworks for procurements, asset sales and grants management, as well as information law and privacy.
Bruce is a former Regional Commissioner for the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), was the National Legal Services Manager for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), and was also Special Counsel for the Department of Finance (Finance).
Bruce also has a long record of involvement in the area of health practice regulation, having sat on numerous national health practice boards and sub committees.
Bruce has undertaken many placements at the National Health and Medical Research Council.
Education
Bachelor of Laws University of Tasmania, 1978
Master of social Science (Public SectorManagement)University of Tasmania, 1991
Experience
Caitlin has over four years' experience working for the Australian Government.
Caitlin has worked with a diverse range of clients across multiple practice areas, gaining considerable experience in government law, public and administrative law, information law, statutory interpretation.
Caitlin has undertaken multiple secondments (including legal, policy and Royal Commission secondments) with our Commonwealth clients, including at the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, the Department of Health, the Department of Social Services, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Services Australia.
Caitlin's co-operative and personal approach allows her to excel in building strong relationships. She can seamlessly fit into each new environment she encounters and is experienced in managing and meeting tight time frames in high pressure settings, while working efficiently and handling each matter with a high level of attention to detail and producing high quality work outcomes.
Caitlin is experienced in providing timely, accurate and persuasive advice in relation to a broad range of government functions. She is experienced in undertaking complex projects, is adept at identifying and researching issues, analysing options and devising potential solutions to critical problems. She has strong written skills and is experienced in providing advice, which is underpinned by analysis, contextual awareness and stakeholder consultation.
Her experience in a broad range of matters demonstrates her capacity to quickly attain the required skills, allowing her to adapt easily and thrive in new environments.
Education
Bachelor of Laws University of Canberra, 2015
Job Titles:
- Senior Advisor
- Associate at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal
Experience
Cara Sullivan is a Sydney-based lawyer with over five years' experience working with the Australian Government.
Since beginning her career as an Associate at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, Cara has since gained considerable experience working with a diverse range of Australian Government clients in administrative law, litigation, dispute resolution and regulatory work.
Cara has strong representational and litigation management skills, and is capable of managing high volume and complex litigation. Cara has experience in briefing external lawyers and counsel, and has appeared as a solicitor advocate for various clients in proceedings before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and the Federal Circuit Court.
Cara is experienced in statutory interpretation and administrative law, and regularly advises of the efficacy of administrative decision making and underlying decision-making processes.
Cara also contributes to Proximity's commitment to community service and pro bono work. Cara loves the ocean and exploring Australia's coastlines with her friends and family. Outside of the office, she can usually be found at the nearest beach with a good book.
Education
Bachelor of Laws University of Notre Dame, 2016
Experience
Cassandra brings close to 30 years' experience in senior and executive Australian public sector roles predominantly in law enforcement and national security operating environments.
Cassandra is highly regarded for her collaborative approach, unique insights and innovative contributions which lead to lasting improvements and increased organisational performance.
Cassandra's specialist areas include designing and implementing organisational strategies incorporating policy and program design, implementation and evaluation; governance, risk and assurance; and capability improvement. Cassandra has collaborated across all levels of government and industry to deliver complex and sensitive outcomes. She is a trusted advisor who interprets ambiguous operating complexities to cut through to root causes, implications, risks and opportunities.
Cassandra has a unique blend of delivery and relationship skills which she uses to bridge gaps in strategic intent and operational outcomes from both performance and behavioural perspectives. Cassandra is passionate about organisational culture and leadership enabling high performing empowered teams.
Outside of work, Cassandra enjoys spending time with friends and family, skiing in winter and the beach in summer, and volunteering in a crisis support role.
Education
Graduate Certificate in Applied Management (Policing and Emergency Services)Australian Institute of Police Management, 2018
Experience
Colin Maher is a Legal, Commercial, Procurement and Technology specialist with over 20 years' experience leading and supporting complex organisational transformation. Colin always begins with the end in mind and works collaboratively to ensure the business outcome is achieved.
Colin has significant experience leading complex technology sourcing activities from inception to delivery and understands the challenges and opportunities specific to organisational transformation.
Colin has worked extensively in the Public and Private sectors with particular focus on Health, Education, Employment, Utilities, Transport and Logistics.
Colin understands the importance of relationships, stakeholder engagement and works collaboratively to deliver positive outcomes, advocacy and navigate complex organisational challenge statements.
Outside of work Colin enjoys spending time with family and friends, testing his culinary skills with new gluten free recipes, playing his electronic drum kit, exploring and photographing new places and culminating with his passion for Motorsport.
Education
Bachelor of Laws Bond University, 2013
Memberships
ACT Law Society
Qualifications, Courses and Certificates
Experience
Colin McCormack is a Senior Advisor with 17 years' experience delivering outcomes within the public sector. Colin is a trusted leader who is driven to meet and exceed client expectations and deliver timely and relevant advice across many areas across government.
Colin takes a collaborative and pragmatic approach to problem-solving. He is passionate about public policy and works diligently to find solutions which are fit-for-purpose, practical and deliver a positive outcome.
Colin has led and worked collaboratively on major projects involving legislative design and development, regulation, policy, and programs. Colin had the privilege to manage the development of the Export Control Act 2020, a once in 40-year reform relating to the regulation of agricultural exports and supporting market access.
Colin has worked across a range of subject-matter areas including agricultural exports, national security policy, international civil law and critical infrastructure protection across many government agencies.
Colin has a Bachelor of Laws, Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice and Graduate Certificate in Management.
Colin enjoys spending time with family and friends. He is a keen cyclist who loves getting out and exploring Canberra and the surrounding regions.
Education
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)University of Canberra, 2012
Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice Australian National University, 2013
Graduate Certificate in Management University of New South Wales, 2016
Job Titles:
- Group Manager - Technology
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder
- Advisory Board - Member
Job Titles:
- Advisor
- Principal
- Advisory Board - Member
- National Sector Lead - State and Local Government
Job Titles:
- Advisor
- Principal
- National Lead - Project Management & Performance
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager - Client Engagement
Job Titles:
- Group Manager - Communications and Marketing
Job Titles:
- Expert Advisor
- National Sector Lead - Environment, Climate Change and Water
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager - Client Engagement
Job Titles:
- Advisory Board - Member
- Co - CEO
Job Titles:
- Assistant Manager - Technology
Job Titles:
- National Lead - Policy & Programs
- Special Advisor
Job Titles:
- National Lead - Transformation
- National Lead - Transformation / Group Manager - Client Engagement
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager - Client Engagement
Job Titles:
- Special Advisor / Team Lead - Probity
- Team Lead - Probity
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder
- Advisory Board - Member
- National Lead - Procurement & Contracts
Job Titles:
- Expert Advisor
- National Lead - Public Law & Litigation
Job Titles:
- Trunisha Patel / Assistant Advisor
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager - Executive & Business Support
Job Titles:
- Advisory Board - Member
- Co - CEO