2024 Women to Watch
This year we showcase over 80 South Australian women to watch throughout the year. From business, to careers, arts to science. This year’s selected women highlight the depth and diversity of the women in our state and also the vast array of opportunities to develop a business or career in South Australia. Find our more about our inaugural Women to Watch initiative here.
Michelle Cheetham is an accomplished property professional with extensive experience in finance, management, and community engagement. She commenced her career as a Finance Officer for Devine Homes before excelling as an Assistant Manager for Urbanest Student Accommodation. In 2016, she assumed the role of Operations Manager and later became a Village Manager for a retirement village operated by Retire Australia. Currently, Michelle serves as the Executive Manager for Burnside Retirement Services Incorporated (trading as Pineview Village), where her expertise in strategic planning, budget management, and business process improvement shines.
An outstanding achievement in Michelle’s career includes leading the creation of a in-depth strategic plan for Pineview Village, emphasising a resident-centered approach to property management. As a visionary leader, she played a pivotal role in crafting the village’s new mission, vision, and values. Through careful planning and collaborative efforts, Michelle ensured that the strategic plan not only aligned with Burnside Retirement Services’ overarching goals but also encapsulated the unique essence of Pineview. Michelle’s commitment to a resident-centered approach extends beyond Pineview.
During her tenure at Urbanest, she played a pivotal role in fostering a community-oriented living environment. Her dedication to team building and staff development significantly contributed to enhancing the resident experience at Urbanest, creating a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for students. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Michelle is an active community member, serving as a Board Member of both King’s Baptist Grammar School (since 2023) and King’s Community Services (since 2013). Michelle is a devoted mother of three and enjoys reading and family vacations in her spare time.
// Favourite inspirational quote
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou, poet, singer, memoirist, civil rights activist
// Let’s get to know you
In my late teens, uncertain about my career path, I heeded my dad’s advice and embarked on a Business Administration traineeship, earning a Certificate III in 2000. Encouraged by Hon Jing Lee MLC, my early 20s saw me navigating roles from Receptionist to PA, ultimately finding my niche in Finance.
Tragically, a personal loss led me to pause my career temporarily. In 2010, I joined Urbanest Student Accommodation Australia, rising to Operations Manager. Amidst the changing landscape of international education due to COVID, I transitioned to RetireAustralia in 2020, managing one of their Adelaide villages.
Driven by personal connections and a passion for community-building, I oversaw 120 units and nearly 150 residents. Adjusting from the transient nature of student accommodation, the long-term commitment of retirement village residents became a significant learning curve. Recognising the importance of resident engagement and robust communication channels, I thrived in creating a connected community.
My commitment to professional development is underscored by my recent study at the Governance Institute of Australia. Focusing on Company Secretary responsibilities, this course enhanced my understanding of governance and the pivotal roles within a Board. The insights gained have proven invaluable, both personally and in my contributions to the local community.
In 2022, I seized the role of Executive Manager at Pineview Village, elevating my focus from day-to-day property management to shaping the organisation’s strategic direction. With the Board’s support, I dedicated nearly a year to researching and crafting the Mission, Vision & Values, along with the latest 5-year strategic plan. This immersive process broadened my understanding of business decisions’ impact on residents and other stakeholders.
// What makes you a Woman to Watch for 2024?
In the unfolding chapters of 2024, I emerge as a Woman to Watch, defined by a narrative woven with resilience, passion, and purpose. My professional trajectory exemplifies adaptability and a diverse skill set. At Pineview, my commitment to reshaping retirement living is clear. Steering the organisation, I dedicated nearly a year to diligently crafting the Mission, Vision & Values, along with a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan. This endeavour reflects not just a role but a fervent mission to redefine the retirement living landscape.
My passion extends beyond organisational charts. I actively engage with my community, serving as a Board Member for King’s Baptist Grammar School and King’s Community Services. These roles are not just titles; they represent a commitment to positive change in my corner of the world. Despite my inclination toward quiet achievement, what sets me apart is an unyielding dedication to continuous learning. A recent journey with the Governance Institute of Australia, focusing on Company Secretary responsibilities, underscores my commitment to staying abreast of industry best practices and governance principles.
In essence, my narrative is one of passion quietly unfolding into purpose. As a Woman to Watch in 2024, my distinctive blend of resilience, strategic vision, and community commitment not only defines my journey but also sets the stage for a future where impactful leadership takes centre stage.
// If you could share one takeaway from your career or business journey, what would it be?
The saying “I can and I will. Watch me” sums up a very important part of my work story. Gifted to me by a previous manager years ago, a bracelet engraved with these words serves as a tangible reminder of a time when self-doubt loomed, and cynicism surrounded my capabilities. This emblematic piece of jewellery carries a story of resilience, determination, and self-discovery. Despite doubt at first, I didn’t let myself be underestimated. My manager’s challenges tested both my work skills and my determination. Many thought failure was certain, but I saw it as a chance to prove them wrong. Wearing the bracelet daily, its words echo a personal commitment to rise above expectations. Through unwavering dedication and a relentless work ethic, I not only met the challenges posed but exceeded them. The journey taught me profound lessons about self-belief, the capacity to overcome adversity, and the resilience required to thrive in the face of scepticism.
Beyond the individual triumph, this experience deepened my understanding of effective leadership. I discovered the significance of empowering oneself and others, fostering a culture of belief and support. The lessons learned, both about my own capabilities and the nuances of team leadership, have shaped my approach to management. This transformative period showed not only what I could achieve but also the importance of avoiding pitfalls when leading a team.
// What would being a Woman to Watch mean to you?
In aspiring to be a Woman to Watch for 2024, my motivation is rooted in a commitment to continuous growth, positive impact, and the pursuit of excellence. Being recognized as a Woman to Watch signifies an acknowledgment of the collective efforts, accomplishments, and transformative journey that have defined my professional and personal trajectory.
This aspiration is not driven by a desire for personal acclaim but rather by a genuine dedication to advancing the field of retirement living and contributing meaningfully to my community. It represents an opportunity to showcase the innovative strides made at Pineview Village, the lessons learned from diverse professional experiences, and the resilience demonstrated in the face of challenges.
Being a Woman to Watch aligns with my goal to inspire others, particularly women, to pursue their passions and break through barriers. It’s a platform to share insights, foster mentorship, and contribute to a narrative that celebrates the achievements of women in leadership roles. I want to be a Woman to Watch in 2024 because I’m dedicated to making a positive impact, encouraging growth, and inspiring others in their careers. It shows that every progress I make isn’t just for me but a chance to spark change and be an example for others to follow.
// What would you like to see for the future of South Australian women and girls?
In the future of South Australia, I envision a society where women and girls, including my 15-year-old daughter, have ample opportunities and feel empowered. I hope for an educational environment that encourages curiosity without limits, with schools providing strong support, mentorship, and diverse role models for young girls to pursue their dreams confidently. In community living, my commitment is to create spaces where women and girls are not just accepted but celebrated. I want to actively engage in initiatives promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equal representation in our local community. I see a community that encourages the voices of women and girls, allowing them to contribute, lead, and shape our shared future.
Ultimately, my vision for South Australia is a place where my daughter and every young woman can pursue their dreams freely, with abundant opportunities and strong community support. Through my dedication to community living, I aim to contribute to this vision, fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive.
In my ideal future, the world embodies equity, compassion, and sustainability. This future ensures equal opportunities, breaks down systemic barriers, and collaborates globally on challenges like climate change and social inequality. Advocating for inclusivity, prioritizing environmental conservation, and ensuring universal access to quality education are crucial. Collaboration, involving partnerships across sectors, is essential. Embracing inclusivity, eco-friendly practices, and supporting equality initiatives collectively contribute to this transformative future. Creating an ideal world requires a shift in mindset—where compassion, collaboration, and sustainability are integral, fostering a world where everyone can thrive.
Get in touch with Michelle:
LinkedIn: Michelle Cheetham
Website: www.pineviewvillage.com.au
Check out all of the incredible Women to Watch for 2024 here as their profiles are uploaded throughout the year.
To become an SA Woman Member, check out our Membership Options here.