Ilse van de Meent

Strategy & Execution | Corporate Affairs, Culture and Communications | Crisis Management & C-suite advisor | Fin Services & Government

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

About

A trusted executive adviser who brings clarity, calm and alignment in complex and regulated environments. I work closely with the Executive Team and senior leaders to translate strategy into execution, shaping priorities, strengthening organisational rhythm and keeping teams focused on what matters most. I enjoy connecting the dots and helping leaders move from ideas to practical action. I am known for calm judgement under pressure and for creating positive, high-performing environments, even during ambiguity or change. Colleagues value my openness and steady presence. Whether preparing board-ready reporting, advising on complex or sensitive matters, or leading whole-of-company town halls, I focus on making sure the right conversations happen and that leaders have clear, well-considered options in front of them. Ownership is important to me. I identify emerging issues early, communicate transparently and address challenges directly, balancing risk, competing priorities and stakeholder expectations. My experience across financial services, government and consulting has given me a broad organisational lens and a collaborative leadership style. I care deeply about culture and alignment. I get energy from helping teams work better together, lifting clarity, improving rhythm and supporting people to perform at their best. Outside of work, life revolves around our three growing boys, often in full family Uber mode between sports, and volunteering at our local AFL club. Pilates, long walks and time outdoors keep me grounded and recharged. Recognised for international leadership and expertise: • Achmea International Customer Experience Chapter representative (the Netherlands, 2023) • Employee of the Year (2020), recognised for leading CEO communications and crisis response during COVID • Leader of the Year Finalist (2021) • Employee of the Year Finalist (2019)

Experience

  • Achmea Australia (8 yrs 1 mo)
    • General Manager Marketing and Communications
      Jul 2022 - Present · 4 yrs 1 mo

      Driving client-centric, risk aware decision-making across departments to meet strategic objectives. Supporting the delivery of revenue targets through effective planning, regular reporting and pipeline management. Building and reinforcing a trusted market presence.

    • Corporate Communications Manager
      Oct 2020 - Jul 2022 · 1 yr 10 mos

      Member of Crisis Management Team, responsible for managing all crisis communication during COVID-19. Quarterly Board reporting, annual board strategy presentations, and executive presentations in collaboration with the CEO.

    • Marketing Consultant
      Jul 2018 - Oct 2020 · 2 yrs 4 mos

      Market visibility and brand messaging: led PR and communications efforts, including the development of a national tv, print and social media campaign with scripting responsibility in collaboration with a creative agency. Secured and strengthened partnerships to deliver revenue growth.

  • Senior Communications Consultant at Apollo Communications (Australia)
    Mar 2014 - Jul 2018 · 4 yrs 5 mos

    Apollo Communications is one of Australia’s leading independent public relations and communications agencies, servicing an enviable portfolio of blue-chip clients across corporate, industry and government sectors. Established as The Connolly Partnership in 2011, Apollo Communications provides senior counsel to public and private sector organisations, their boards and chief executives on internal and external communications strategies, including crisis and issues management. As a Senior Communications Consultant, I delivered the following services to long-term clients: • Public relations • Reputation management • Media training • Board advisory • Investor relations • Internal communications • Change management • CEO support • Social media • Marketing communications

  • Maternity leave at Self Employed
    Nov 2012 - Mar 2014 · 1 yr 5 mos

  • Policy Adviser, Minister for Primary Industries and Small Business at Department of Premier and Cabinet (NSW)
    Mar 2011 - Mar 2013 · 2 yrs 1 mo

  • Parliament of NSW (2 yrs 3 mos)
    • Strategic Adviser
      Mar 2010 - Apr 2011 · 1 yr 2 mos

    • Executive Assistant to the NSW National Party Whip
      Feb 2009 - Mar 2010 · 1 yr 2 mos