Behind the Impact • Linda Carseldine
Welcome to our 'Behind the Impact' series, where we pull back the curtain to reveal the dedicated individuals driving change at Sefa. We dive deep into various roles within the team to give you a firsthand look at the diverse careers that exist in the social finance industry. Through this series, we aim to shed light on what it truly means to drive change and create impact from within this unique sector.
To kick things off, we're featuring Linda Carseldine, our indispensable Chief Operating Officer. Her role is like the Swiss Army knife of our organisation, versatile and invaluable. From strategic decision-making to managing day-to-day operations, Linda's unique journey from the corporate sector to social impact is a fascinating tale of transition and dedication.
1. Can you tell us a little bit about your role on the team and what your day-to-day responsibilities entail?
COO in a organisation our size is a very broad role with many plates constantly spinning. I could be working through the strategy with the Board and making cups of tea/processing an invoice in the next hour. I cover strategic and operational financial management, corporate governance and operations (which includes HR, Admin/facilities and IT coverage). I am Company Secretary for both Sefa and Sefa Partnerships as well which involves keeping the Boards on track and well managed with a governance rhythm.
2. What's your go-to productivity hack when you need to power through a big project or deadline?
Mind maps to visually plan the whole picture on a page (white boards and colour post its don’t go astray if its a big one!) and then writing a new to do list every day to ensure I continually reprioritise the essentials for the day.
3. If you could switch jobs with anyone on the team for a day, who would it be and why?
As long as I also get their talents and abilities, it would have to be our Head of Engagement, Renee. Working directly with many of our clients and seeing first hand the impact Sefa is having on these clients would be continually rewarding. Travelling out to regional NSW to spend time with the indigenous organisation, Miyay Birray, walking along beside them while they start up their social enterprise is amazing.
4. What's the most interesting thing you've learned or accomplished in your role so far?
Keeping up with our CEO, Hanna’s fast paced thirst to grow and be innovative in all of our approaches to impact. I am continually learning about how capital can unlock better outcomes for the disadvantaged. Personally though, alongside Hanna, growing the team from 5 people when I started to over 15 members now and being financially sustainable as an organisation feels like a great accomplishment.
5. What motivated you to pursue a career in this field, and how did you get started in your current role?
I previously worked in large multinational corporates for my entire career. When I had a career break with my youngest child, I found I needed some more purpose and I started a social justice group in the community. We educated ourselves and ran projects across many of the social justice issue areas, but what I loved the most was running the volunteering for crisis accommodation facility in Redfern. It was small and the ethos was to make it a home for the night – each time I opened the door with a warm smile and outstretched hand, you could see the impact on the person immediately. I knew impact could start small and every action/effort is worth it. I heard about Sefa and loved what they did so was lucky enough to join a team passionate about making a difference each and every day.
6. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your team or industry right now?
Influencing government spend to deploy capital where it will have the greatest impact. Partnering with Philanthropy to provide capability building to organisations that receive grant or government funding so they are in the best position to effectively deploy and utilise those funds is also important.
7. What do you enjoy most about your job, and what advice would you give to someone who is interested in pursuing a similar career path?
I love the team I work with. Everyone has such diverse backgrounds, ethnically, professionally and general life experience. Everyone has experience and passion to bring to help solve any issue that arises and each and every one is truly committed to making a difference to those who are experiencing disadvantage….we work hard, have fun and support each other each and every day.
As you can see, Linda's role at Sefa is as dynamic as it is impactful. Her journey reminds us that change-makers aren't only found on the front lines; they are also the architects behind the scenes, orchestrating movements and strategies. Don't miss our upcoming interviews, as we continue to illuminate the varied and vital roles that make up our awesome team.
