Ellie Pietsch, Class of 1999
Change Leadership Coach at Deloitte, supporting Leaders to build their capability and deliver results during times of change and uncertainty.
Formerly a leader in Netball, Swimming, Lifesaving, and other NFP organisations, driving participation and engagement during times of change, now taking my experience and learnings to share with corporate and government organisations to support other leaders on their journey.
Can you share a career highlight?
Taking on a volunteer role in Sydney for three years, alongside my fulltime job, as the live-in caretaker of Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club. Living in the surf club (the closest building to the beach in Sydney’s eastern suburbs), providing cleaning, security and maintenance of the 100 year old facility. And meeting/welcoming the most incredible community of people – lifesavers at Tamarama beach. One of the most dangerous beaches in Australia, the 100 volunteers trained and served the community with volunteer patrols, migrant beach safety days and other amazing social activities. We were welcomed into this incredible family and served them and our community for 3 years – also welcoming our first baby about half way through!
What are you plans for the future?
Ultimately, build my own business as a Leadership Coach (lots more to learn first!)
What are you memories of Kilvington?
Kilvington provided the foundation for my full and active life. It taught me the value of putting your hand up and having a go, appreciating the diversity within teams, looking for the good in people, and speaking your mind. The focus on serving others by sharing your own talents was an invaluable lesson in humility and self respect.I still catch up regularly with girlfriends from school, who continue to challenge and support me, even through the really tough times.
In particular I look back fondly at the incredible relationships I formed with staff, now 20 years on – who taught me so much more than how to read and write. I can’t believe I count my teachers as friends! Their wisdom and curiosity showed in their passion for teaching and I am so grateful for the amazing opportunities they gave me to fail, learn and ultimately shine!