Meet our Program Manager, Anita McKenzie

With a diverse working background, Anita McKenzie has worked in people and culture, Australia Post and many places in between. Having found her groove at South East Water, we’re lucky to have her lead our Diversity & Inclusion Program too.

LET’S START WITH THE PERSONAL - TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF

I’m originally from Launceston, Tasmania. I spent my childhood holidays on a remote beach and developed a love of the sea and beach. I’ve been in Melbourne for more than 20 years. I enjoy going for long walks, cooking, talking and taking photos of nature.

My biggest personal achievement was leading the advocacy and business case development for a school and pre-school rebuild, when I was a school council president. This resulted in $9.6 million funding for the rebuild.

I’m passionate about advocating for others and am on the board of the Association for Children with a Disability. As a result, I’m passionate about diversity and inclusion.

WHAT’S YOUR CURRENT WATER CORPORATION ROLE?

I work for South East Water and lead the Community Grants program and the Customer and Community Advisory Council. I’ve been doing this for almost 2 years. South East Water is an amazing employer to work for. I have a fantastic team and I love my role because its so diverse. I interface with community groups, communications and marketing as well as a diverse cross section of people who represent our customers and community.

WHAT’S YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND?

I have more than 20 years’ experience in people and culture and have worked across all functional areas including payroll, payroll management, employee relations, industrial relations, learning and development, leadership development, coaching and culture change. I’ve worked in the public sector, a large government business enterprise, and small and large private sector organisations ranging from banking to manufacturing. My Masters is in Public Administration and I’m also a trained teacher! I returned to work part time after a career break (after having children and studying a Grad Dip. in Education) and worked for a state member of parliament before moving to South East Water.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO EACH DAY (BUT TO YOUR GRANDMA)?

I help South East Water decide which community groups should be given money to help people or the environment. I also help South East Water share their ideas with others and listen to understand what they think of them.

WHY DID YOU JOIN IWN?

I joined IWN in late 2022 to support thought leadership and innovation in the water sector. I recently moved from deputy to Program Manager of the Diversity & Inclusion Technology Program.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE WITH IWN?

I’d like to see the water sector become more aware of inclusion, and for our workplaces to become more inclusive as a result.

For me personally, I’d like to have fun and get to know a diverse range of people while learning more about the water industry.

WHAT GETS YOU OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING?

My enthusiasm for an early morning walk in the dark!