Katie Clarke: Authenticity & Challenging the Leadership Prototype

​In celebration of International Women's Day, we are proud to share the inspiring journey of Katie Clarke, a remarkable leader at IPS. Katie's path to leadership is a testament to the power of resilience, authenticity, and the unique skills she has honed throughout her diverse career.

Katie's journey began in Dubai, where she spent 11 years as a hairdresser. During this time, she discovered the importance of connecting with people from various backgrounds and cultures. Her ability to engage with clients, find common ground, and make them feel comfortable became the foundation of her exceptional people and communication skills.

Upon returning to Australia, Katie pursued an Indigenous apprenticeship with Services Australia. However, she quickly realised that her true calling lay elsewhere. It was at IPS that Katie found her place, initially joining as an Executive Assistant. Her potential was soon recognised, and she was given the opportunity to speak at an International Women's Day event in 2018. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her transformation into a dynamic leader.

Katie's leadership style is characterised by her authenticity, empathy, and unwavering support for her team. She is known for her straightforward yet caring approach, always ready to protect and guide her colleagues while allowing them to grow independently. Her journey has not been without challenges, as she has had to navigate societal perceptions of what it means to be a leader and confront her own doubts about her capabilities.

Mentorship has played a crucial role in Katie's development. She credits Julie Hillier, IPS Co-CEO, as one of her biggest mentors and cheerleaders. Julie's belief in Katie's potential and willingness to entrust her with significant responsibilities have been instrumental in shaping her leadership journey. Additionally, Katie draws inspiration from Katina Law, the other Co-CEO and Founder of IPS, who has demonstrated immense strength and resilience in advocating for First Nations people.

Katie's advice to other women aspiring to leadership roles is to remain true to themselves. She emphasises the importance of embracing one's unique personality and strengths, rather than conforming to traditional expectations of leadership. Katie's story is a powerful reminder that authenticity and the ability to connect with people are invaluable qualities in a leader.

As we celebrate International Women's Day, Katie Clarke's journey serves as an inspiration to all. Her story highlights the significance of diverse experiences and the impact of strong mentorship in shaping effective leaders. At IPS, we are proud to have Katie as a part of our leadership team, and we look forward to witnessing her continued success.

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