Isabelle is a great example of how with determination and talent someone can start out on the bottom rung of an organisation and rise to a managerial role in a short time. In her case she is now Production Supervisor at Haars Nursery. This year she won the Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria Young Leader of the Year award. Well done!
(Here Isabelle is shown receiving her award certificate from Bruce Yelland of Moshie Enterprise Coaching and Development.)
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What drew you to horticulture originally? What pathway did you take to get there?
I wanted to start building a career for myself in an industry that I had a genuine passion for and at the time I was obsessed with plants, so it was the most obvious choice for me. I didn’t know what a career in plants could look like, but my first port of call was to study a Certificate III in Horticulture. I fell in love with learning about plants and was able to connect with so many like-minded people. While completing my studies, I started working as a casual nursery hand at Haars Nursery, which is where I started and continue to build my career.
What obstacles did you encounter along the way?
Any situation, no matter how tough, can be used as an opportunity to learn something new and I truly believe that this mindset can propel you along your path. These challenges have further defined my pathway within the industry and this is where I found that I not only have a passion for plants but a passion for leading and managing people. There have been many hurdles along my journey so far, that’s inherent in challenging yourself to step outside your comfort zone, learning and growing along the way.
Who were your mentors?
I have met many people in my career who have mentored me or had a positive impact on my journey in leadership. With my introduction to EWHA, I have had the opportunity to meet so many strong, inspiring leaders. I have also had the honour of working in a great business and have been mentored by Nick Bird, the Haars family, Kylie Balmain, Liz Da Silva and many other amazing Haar’s team members. One other program I had the privilege to complete was the Moshie Lean Leaders Course, where I learned incredible tools in leadership and continuous improvement from Bruce Yelland and Josh Kyne.
What are you working on at the moment?
Coming into Spring, we are able to hire 50–70 new team members. This is a great opportunity to train and develop the team and work on my skills as a leader, whilst also finding new people with the same passions for horticulture and leadership as I do.
What does an average day consist of for you?
No two days are the same in Haars Nursery and although we have strong processes and a strong team, we are very customer driven, therefore we will do whatever it takes to deliver the best outcomes for all our customers with the highest quality product. Because I deal with living product, it requires the uttermost care to deliver a consistently high-quality standard to our state-of-the-art customers.
What is your favourite plant?
My favourite plant would have to be an orchid! I am obsessed with their beautiful flowers and the intricate relationship they have with the environment, in particular, bees. Very fascinating.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Looking back at it, my career has progressed rapidly within the industry, therefore I’m open-minded to new opportunities that Haars Nursery will continue to provide. The only thing that I am certain of, is that I will continue to invest the time and effort to grow myself, my team and the horticultural industry.
What are your 3 most worthwhile tips that you can give to women who are starting out in the horticulture industry?
Don’t be afraid to ask for opportunities. All businesses within the industry will readily support and help you if you show a willingness to learn and grow.
Follow your curiosity and passion, even if you don’t know exactly what you want. Following what feels right in the moment will undoubtedly lead you to the next opportunity, often in unexpected ways.
Networking is a powerful tool. The industry is filled with so many incredible people with years of experience and perspective – lean on those around you for guidance, support and insight.