Meet SA Woman Member, Melanie Dancer.
Business/Organisation: Girl Guides SA
Job Role: CEO
Tell us a bit about you:
Melanie has worked throughout Australia in a variety of government and corporate industries. She first worked as a specialist investigator with SAPOL within the Paedophile Taskforce and Sex Crimes Investigation Branch.
During the time she served in the force she completed a prestigious state-based scholarship focussing on an outcome that led to the offence of ‘drink spiking’ being included into South Australian criminal legislation. Melanie developed her portfolio of governance experience as a Board member and Chair of YWCA Adelaide focussing on the status of women and women’s policy and program development as well as attending international and national leadership conferences.
Melanie transitioned into careers within community and social services development – including senior roles in aged care, disability and education models for at-risk young people. Melanie has worked with a variety of organisations to implement change management and create commercial service models, as well as leading local and national projects within sport including within an AFL club.
Melanie assists police officers to transition into new careers and is a CEO in the non for profit sector with a focus on leadership for young women.
Tell us a bit about your business or organisation/role:
Girl Guides SA is a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts and is the peak organisation in South Australia for leadership and community based opportunities for girls and Women,
We offer information, services and a fun and interactive national Guiding program for girls aged 5 – *unlimited*, as well as operate diverse income streams to the public in areas of commercial tourism, camping and community programs.
As a hub, we provide leadership opportunities and access to information to assist inform and assist young women to reach their full potential. We operate as a fully funded NFP and do not rely on grants – although our popularity for CSR and government interest is increasing as I grow the profile throughout SA as a strong brand.
What region of South Australia are you in?:
Adelaide West
How can you best contact you:
Phone Number: 0429 483 756
Work Address: 311 Military Rd, HENLEY BEACH 5022
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniedancer/
Let’s get to know you a little more:
What has been a lesson you learnt in your career or business that has stayed with you?
The moment you feel uncomfortable in a new situation , it’s a lesson – regardless. Make the obvious 3 changes as a Leader in the first 3-6 months – just do it…
They’re probably waiting for some one to do something anyway, that’s why *you’re* there!
What is your favourite place in South Australia to visit?
Melrose
Why is being part of SA Woman important to you?
Networking, passing on opportunities and seeking assistance in a collegiate environment.
What is a quote or mantra you live by?
Fail forward fast