Meet Monique: Senior Economic Growth and Tourism Officer

I lead the planning and delivery of our local economic growth, tourism, and business support projects and programs. As a senior team member, I guide and support my colleagues to achieve our goals for the community’s economic prosperity. I also back up our team leader, offering expertise and leadership to help shape strategic proposals and policy.

My introduction to the world of council was when I did work experience in the marketing and communications team at the City of Tea Tree Gully, in Year 10. It motivated me to start a career in council because of the opportunity to have a direct and tangible impact on the community.

Since then, I have worked in councils for a little over 15 years, including at the City of Norwood Payneham and St Peters and the City of Salisbury.

At the City of Onkaparinga my role is quite diverse. I’m able to use my skills and experience in marketing, communications, events and place management which I enjoy. I can go from developing a program to build local business capability and capacity, to coordinating a photoshoot for a ‘Shop local’ campaign, to writing a strategic plan. I often juggle many projects at once, but I enjoy the challenge. I like that I can operate with a strategic hat but also get hands-on.

"I love that my role has a direct impact on local businesses and the community."

I'm part of a great team that is passionate, works hard and genuinely cares about supporting businesses to grow and thrive in the Onkaparinga region. We provide opportunities including grant funding, free business advice, training, workshops and networking. We help businesses make informed decisions with market research, guide them through regulations, and deliver local marketing campaigns to bring visitors to our region.

I love that my role has a direct impact on local businesses and the community. It is incredibly satisfying to develop business support programs from scratch based on what businesses tell us they need, implement them, and get positive feedback from the community.

In the future I’d like to move into a leadership role. I’ve been fortunate in taking many professional development courses which have honed my skills in collaboration, teamwork, adaptability and project management. I’ve also developed strong communication, community engagement, data analysis and strategic planning abilities.

Councils are one of the best places to work in as they offer job stability, which is something I value.  If you’re considering a career at a council, I recommend networking with current council employees to get their insights. You can also get involved in the local community - participate in events, attend council meetings or engage with community initiatives. This will also give you a great sense of the work councils deliver and what the priorities are.

If you can find a mentor who has experience working in council they may help you navigate your career path. Be open to learning and maintain a positive attitude - these qualities will help you adapt to the challenges and rewards of working in a council.