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London: Advance Arts Network Meeting on 8-Feb-12 6:30 PM

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:30:00 GMT

London: Advance Arts Network Meeting
Start Date: 8-Feb-12 6:30 PM
End Time: 8-Feb-12 7:30 PM
Location: Canal 125, London, London N1 9RG2
Event Details:

Advance Arts Network Chair, Laila Dickson would like to announce the next Arts Network Catch Up to be held on Wednesday 8th February at Canal 125.

Please come and hear about the latest music gigs, concerts, exhibitions, plays, films, and all manner of courses that our members are involved in or have visited. Come along to promote your own. This is our monthly get together for all Australians who work, or are interested, in the Arts and find themselves in London on this date. All are welcome, even if you don't work in the Arts! Or just come to share some Australian banter.

Please feel free to grab a drink from the bar downstairs, then head on up to the Upstairs Room at Canal 125.

Advance Arts Network Catch Up
Wednesday 8th February 2012
6.30pm - 7.30pm meeting, drinks/networking to follow
Upstairs Room at Canal 125
125 Caledonian Road
London, N1 9RG2

[REGISTER NOW]

Nearest Tube: King's Cross Thameslink, King's Cross St Pancras or Angel.

*From Kings Cross, walk up Caledonian Road and after a few minutes the pub will be on your left, next to the Canal.

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Canal 125

125 Caledonian Road

London, London United Kingdom N1 9RG2

Sydney: Advance Innovation Pitching Workshops on 29-Feb-12 9:00 AM

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Sydney: Advance Innovation Pitching Workshops
Start Date: 29-Feb-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 29-Feb-12 4:45 PM
Location: NSW Trade & Investment Centre, Sydney, NSW
Event Details:

Advance Innovation Pitching Workshop - Sydney

Date: Wednesday 29 February, 2012

Venue: NSW Trade & Investment Centre, Level 47, MLC Centre, 19 Martin Place, Sydney

Time: 9.00am to 4.45pm

Come along to hear advice from some of Australia's most successful international entrepreneurs and VCs.

Companies can also apply to pitch to our Advance judging panel on the day. Impress the judges for your chance to be mentored by an Advance 50 for the Future leader and pitch directly to VCs and angel investors at our Summit in Silicon Valley in May, 2012.

Agenda:

9.00am	Registration
9.30am	Welcome
9.45am	Interview with Australian Entrepreneur
10.15am	Morning Tea
10.30am	Key Note Presentation The Pitch and the Perception - Steps to becoming a Serious Proposition Learn from the experience of a successful entrepreneur about their steps to stardom, and their evolution to becoming a serious proposition.
11.00am	Discussion Panel A 'behind closed doors' insight into how VC's decide who they invest in and why A discussion around positive and negative experiences, anecdotes and advice from prominent Australian VCs and Angel Investors.
12.00pm	Advance Innovation Silicon Valley Summit Overview
12.05pm	Lunch Break and Networking
1.00pm	Pitches followed by critique
2.30pm	Afternoon Tea
3.00pm	Pitches followed by critique
4.30pm	Closing Remarks

SYDNEY [REGISTER NOW]

Whilst there is no charge for these events, pre-registration is essential.

For further information, please email innovation@advance.org

Advance receives funding support

from the Australian Government.

NSW Trade & Investment Centre

19 Martin Place

Sydney, NSW Australia

Melbourne: Advance Innovation Pitching Workshops on 2-Mar-12 9:00 AM

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Melbourne: Advance Innovation Pitching Workshops
Start Date: 2-Mar-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 2-Mar-12 4:45 PM
Location: Victorian Government Investment Centre, Melbourne, VIC
Event Details:

Advance Innovation Pitching Workshop - Melbourne

Date: Friday 2 March, 2012

Venue: Victorian Government Investment Centre, Level 46, 55 Collins Street, Melbourne

Time: 9.00am to 4.45pm

Come along to hear advice from some of Australia's most successful international entrepreneurs and VCs.

Agenda:

9.00am	Registration
9.30am	Welcome
9.45am	Interview with Australian Entrepreneur
10.15am	Morning Tea
10.30am	Key Note Presentation The Pitch and the Perception - Steps to becoming a Serious Proposition Learn from the experience of a successful entrepreneur about their steps to stardom, and their evolution to becoming a serious proposition.
11.00am	Discussion Panel A 'behind closed doors' insight into how VC's decide who they invest in and why A discussion around positive and negative experiences, anecdotes and advice from prominent Australian VCs and Angel Investors.
12.00pm	Advance Innovation Silicon Valley Summit Overview
12.05pm	Lunch Break and Networking
1.00pm	Pitches followed by critique
2.30pm	Afternoon Tea
3.00pm	Pitches followed by critique
4.30pm	Closing Remarks

MELBOURNE [REGISTER NOW]

Whilst there is no charge for these events, pre-registration is essential.

For further information, please email innovation@advance.org

Advance receives funding support

from the Australian Government.

Victorian Government Investment Centre

55 Collins Street

Melbourne, VIC Australia

Casting Call for Advance Members in LA!

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We have some exciting new developments coming soon and we want you to be a part of the movement.

We are currently seeking Advance members to be featured in a new video. Yes, that means you!

We could hire actors, but we want to give REAL people the opportunity to promote themselves within the Advance community.

HOW TO SUBMIT:

Option 1

Step 1: Open a new Facebook message and in the "To" box typeadvancetv@advance.org

Step 2: Click on the icon for "Take a video or picture" and click on the video camera icon to "switch to video".

Step 3: Record your video and hit Send!

Option 2

Step 1: Record a video of yourself saying the lines below (use any camera, your computer or even your phone).

Step 2: Email your video to advancetv@advance.org (feel free to attach a video or upload it to YouTube and email us the link).

THATS IT!

We will then select twenty people who we think represent Advance to meet with our director in LA.

We invite people of all ages and races. Even if you have never spoken in front of a camera, it doesn't matter. We want you to be YOU.

WHAT TO SAY IN YOUR VIDEO:

1) "YOUR NAME"

2) "YOUR OCCUPATION"

3) Advance your network.

4) Because with our knowledge combined, we can excel together.

5) The movement to Advance begins in Australia and ends with you.

Be sure to speak loud and clear.

Please submit videos by 11.59PM on Monday the 6th of February. We realise that's not far away so get filming!

Filming will take place on Thursday the 16th of February. If you aren't available on that day please let us know when you submit your video. We are also hoping to film on Saturday the 18th of February.

Please note that Advance may use your submission in other promotional materials. If you do not wish for your video to be used in this manner please just let us know.

3-Feb-12 6:00 PM

Itchy Feet

Courtney Patching - noemail@https://advance.org — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 GMT

By Courtney Patching

Advance Roaming Writers

If anyone were to ask me the one thing I value most in my life, I would be conflicted between answering with ‘family’ and ‘knowledge’. Without either I would not be sitting at my desk on the 34^th floor of my New York City office building – with the most amazing view of the city I’ve seen thus far - writing for you. As a child I attended St Francis of Assisi Primary, a small Catholic school in Sydney with only 15 children in my grade. I was never interested in sports, religion, computers or the performing arts, so visual creativity and academics became my focus throughout my education. Later on, knowledge of the world would be added to the list.

One day we were asked to illustrate two national flags: one from the country our mother’s heritage and one from the country of our father’s heritage. There was only 15 of us, but flags from India, Indigenous Australia, Portugal, New Zealand, Sudan, the USA, France, the Czech Republic, Cyprus and Scotland (just to name a few) had been taped across the wall so that each student could begin to understand the range of backgrounds and cultures present in our classroom. With the exception of one other student, I was the only person in the class who had drawn two Australian flags.

My family roots are almost 100% Australian. My ancestors were European convicts dating back to the late 1700s and have ever since remained in Australia, creating a quintessentially Australian family tree. When people ask me where I come from, they usually expect me to reply with Italy or the Middle East (mostly because of my dark features and my competence in speaking Italian). People usually respond with disbelief, some have asked me if I’m positive I don’t have anything other than Australia in my DNA. Even though my heritage isn’t as diverse as many of the Australians I’ve developed friendships with, this doesn’t necessarily mean that I don’t yearn to travel outside my sunburnt country.

As I mentioned earlier, knowledge is something I value highly, and knowledge of the world is something I crave on a daily basis. My father has travelled overseas for a living since my birth in 1992. I have a large collection of postcards, trinkets and souvenirs nearly 20 years old now from places all over the world where he would work. As a baby I sometimes went on these overseas business trips if my mother were to accompany my father. The influence that travel has on my family has ultimately rubbed off on me. Knowledge of other countries and their respective cultures is something I consider myself lucky to possess. When I travel I usually do my best to avoid tourist culture and instead seek to familiarize myself with the locals, who impart their knowledge of their country onto me. After visiting over 15 countries before my 20^th birthday, I’m far from finished with my travels and cultural immersion. Put simply, my feet are itching with greater intensity than ever before, and I certainly intend on scratching the itch until I bleed.

At this point in time I am interning with Advance, which allows me to work and play in New York and keep in touch with Australia. I will return to Australia after living in the USA for two months to complete my degree and hopefully return to pursue a career in communications and advertising. I firmly believe I belong in New York City, despite my emotional ties to Australia. By interning with an Australian company with Australians, for Australians and by Australians has awakened the possibility that I can have both New York and Australia in my life. Surely that’s I’m not being too greedy to want this!

For those of you who would like one point of advice from a young traveler: never let your feet stop itching! Work hard to go places, immerse yourself when you arrive and gain as much knowledge as you possibly can from your experience – let’s become a generation of wise, knowledgeable, global citizens.

3-Feb-12 12:00 PM

Free uni for artful dodgers

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 GMT

An anomaly in HECS means graduates who live overseas can indefinitely sidestep their repayments to the taxpayer.

Read more on the Sydney Morning Herald website - http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/society-and-culture/free-uni-for-artful-dodgers-20120120-1qa3l.html

3-Feb-12 12:00 PM

Member Postcard - David Joshua Ford

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:00:00 GMT

David is an Australian photographer, film and television director. He has studied in Canada, and is now freelancing his craft in New York City.

Where did you grow up in Australia?

I grew up in Canberra with a very middle-of-the-road suburban childhood. Sydney was exotic, in the way New York would be in later years.

Where are you currently living?

New York, New York!

What prompted you to move overseas and how long have you been away for?

One of my goals for my twenties has been to live and work overseas for at least two years. It's partly just for the life experience, but mainly because there are loads of job opportunities not present in Sydney. I came via Thailand and California and have been in NYC for two months now.

What is your current position/role?

Freelance! I've been running my own creative business in Sydney for the last six years in film, television and photography. Coming to New York I have to build up all those contacts again, somewhat from scratch. However, I've found people always try to help me out and connect me with the industry people they know.

Do you have any suggestions for other Australian professionals wanting to follow a similar path?

If you are in a creative profession, I suggest building a good portfolio of work and presenting it well on your website. People don't ask (or even care) about your education. They are listening for your experience, connections, ideas, confidence and pro-activeness. And have a few months cash saved up to kick start your time!

What is the one thing you always show to visitors from home?

Jazz in West Village and improv in East Village! I'd been to New York twice before and can't handle another Empire State or Times Square visit. Central Park is always good and most museums actually accept a tip/donation rather than paying full fare ;)

Describe your adopted hometown/current city in three words..

Multicultural, squished, endless.

Is there anything you miss about Australia?

After a few recent Skype sessions with friends wearing singlets and shorts, definitely the beach. The cold and snow is novel, but nothing beats sand, burning asphalt, salty waves and fresh air.

Why did you join Advance and what is the best thing about being a member?

I've found Aussie expats immensely helpful in settling in to a new city. Perhaps because we understand what it feels like as an outsider thrown into the concrete jungle alone. Hence, I have more Australian friends than American (I'm working on changing that!) through friend-of-friend introductions.

Advance is a great way to stay connected to people and events from your mother country whilst abroad.

25-Jan-12 1:00 PM

Advance Asia Update - January 2012

Jillian Alexics - noemail@https://advance.org — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 23:00:00 GMT

1. Welcome!

2. There's a Buzz in Asia

3. China Beckons!

4. There's Always a Place for Talent

5. Mentors to Guide Australian Students

6. Pearls of Wisdom

7. Australia in the Asian Century

8. Innovation - 20 Questions

9. Australian Expertise Meets Asia

10. Join Advance / Invite a Friend

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WELCOME!

This Asia Update and Advance are dedicated to championing Australian-sparked innovation and thought leadership. If you like what you see, please spread the word and introduce your friends.

In this issue, meet three successful Australians who offer their insights about the importance of creativity and innovation in business, opportunities for Australian entrepreneurs in China, and informed employment trends for both employees and job-seekers in Asia. [More...]

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THERE'S A BUZZ IN ASIA
Advance member Cath Carver, the Hong Kong-based Global Head of Capital Markets with ANZ, was acknowledged as one of Advance’s “Leading 50 Women” at the Advance Women’s Leadership Summit in Sydney in March 2011. Here, she explains the importance of creativity and innovation in business, and offers advice to Australians working – or planning to work – in Asia. [More...]

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CHINA BECKONS!

This year sees Advance delivering our 50 for the Future Innovation Program. This new program has a singular goal - to elevate and inspire Australia's innovation and entrepreneurial community and to connect them with Australia's and our most successful overseas' entrepreneurs. The program extends to Silicon Valley in the first half of this year, then extends to China later this year. [More...]

Click here for more information about Austrade's services

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THERE'S ALWAYS A PLACE FOR TALENT

What trends should employers and job-seekers in Asia be aware of? Advance member Gina McLellan, the Managing Director, Recruitment and Contracting, Asia, of recruitment firm Talent2, offers her insights. [More...]

Learn more about Talent2

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MENTORS TO GUIDE AUSTRALIAN STUDENTS

Advance aims to nurture and support the next generation of leaders, to connect Australians globally and to share their knowledge and experience with Australians back home. One of the ways Advance supports this is via the Advance Global Australian Mentorship Programme, which pairs undergraduates of Australian universities with a 2012 Advance Global Australian Award Winner. [More...]

Find out more about the Awards and the Mentoriship Programme

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PEARLS OF WISDOM

Advance members in Hong Kong enjoyed the wise words of two leading Australian women, and had the opportunity to learn about pearls, at an Advance event held at the Central showroom of Australian South Sea pearl company Paspaley on 6 December. [More...]

Learn more about Paspaley

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AUSTRALIA IN THE ASIAN CENTURY

In October, Australian Prime Minister The Hon. Julia Gillard commissioned a “White Paper on Australia in the Asian Century”.

Announcing the project, she commented: “The shift of economic and strategic weight to Asia has never been more profound for Australia’s interests than it is now. The White Paper will provide a national blueprint for Australia at a time of transformative economic growth and change in Asia. It will help Australia navigate the Asian Century.” [More...]

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INNOVATION - 20 QUESTIONS

Where does your organisation stand along the “innovation journey”? Whether you’re a company selling products or services, a government department or a university, you can still be innovating and implementing new ideas that will make you stand out from the pack and become a leader. [More...]

Take the 20 question innovation quiz

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AUSTRALIAN EXPERTISE MEETS ASIA

Advance congratulates the winners of the 2011 Australia China Alumni Association Awards.

The awards, sponsored by CPA Australia, recognise the achievements of graduates of Australian universities who are currently based in China. The 2011 winners were announced at a gala dinner in Beijing in November. [More...]

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JOIN ADVANCE / INVITE A FRIEND
An Advance member is connected to a global community of Australians, will receive invitations to networking events, has access to innovative online content and helps people connect with other Australian leaders in the region. Membership also provides an opportunity to share your thoughts and experiences with other members abroad and with those who have returned home. [More...]

Join Advance Now

Invite a Friend

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Written/edited by Hong Kong-based Advance member Kay Ross

18-Jan-12 5:00 PM

Innovation - 20 Questions

Jillian Alexics - noemail@https://advance.org — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Innovation pays off

A study by the consulting firm Arthur D. Little found that innovative firms enjoyed a 1% boost to their profit margins and that top innovators had over twice the sales of new products and services. And a global CEO survey conducted by IBM studied over 1,000 companies and found that of the three most significant sources of new ideas for companies, two were from outside the organisation.

Greater collaboration with other organisations can provide new sources of ideas and new routes to market, and can also spread and decrease the risk of innovation. While collaboration sounds desirable, many of the CEOs surveyed said that collaborating and partnering is “theoretically easy” but “practically hard to do”. Successful collaboration requires organisations to first develop the necessary skills by successfully completing the first four phases on the innovation journey.

The innovation quiz

Will your organisation thrive or just survive? Take the 20-question Innovation Quiz to identify how innovative your company is and what you can do to improve.

17-Jan-12 3:00 PM

Australian Expertise Meets Asia

Jillian Alexics - noemail@https://advance.org — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Advance congratulates the winners of the 2011 Australia China Alumni Association Awards.

The top award, the CPA Australia China Alumni of the Year Award, went to Mr Simon Chung, the Global Chief Operating Officer of ChinaSoft International Limited.

The winners in other categories were:

· Young Australia China Alumni of the Year: Mr Steven Chen (Chen Zhaowei), Staffing Director of Baidu Inc.

· Banking and Finance: Dr Chi Man Cartier Lam, Deputy Chief Executive of the Bank of East Asia (China).

· Research and Innovation: Dr Wang Shuguang, Associate Professor and Director (Research) at the Institute of Sociology, Sichuan Academy of Social Sciences; an Assistant Professor in the School of Psychology, The University of Newcastle, Australia, and a UNICEF HIV Consultant in China. Australia China Alumni Award: Assoc. Prof. Zhou Yun, Director, International Cooperation, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Science

· Entrepreneurship: Mr. Michael (Mic) Mittasch, CEO/Owner/Executive Director, Mitchells Equipment (Hebei) Co. Ltd. and Mitchells Holdings Asia Pte. Ltd.

· ICT and New Media: Mr George Tuan, CEO and Chairman, Adsit Media Technology Co. China.

· Corporate Achievement: Mr Ian Lee, President & Chief Operating Officer Omnicom Media Group, China.

· Women in Leadership: Mrs Ong-Koh Wee Nah, General Manager, Frasers Centrepoint.

A promising partnership

Advance and the Australia China Alumni Association are currently in the process of developing a long-term co-operative agreement for the mutual benefit of both organisations. The signing of the agreement is expected to take place in February, shortly after Chinese New Year.

17-Jan-12 3:00 PM

China Beckons!

Jillian Alexics - noemail@https://advance.org — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:15:00 GMT

The program is being developed in partnership with the Australian Government, so we thought to invite Alan Morrell, Austrade’s Senior Trade Commissioner in Beijing, to speak here about the business opportunities available in China for Australian entrepreneurs.

Alan offers his insights about opportunities and challenges for Australians who want to enter the China market, and gives tips about how to turn ideas into a commercial reality.

Some very successful Australian companies are doing great things in China, reported Alan. “There are large-scale operations such as the Big 4 banks, Toll Logistics, Worley Parsons and Westrac, and other companies doing terrific things in the areas of architecture, the environment and mining services."

They share some common characteristics, he said. “They’ve all built their businesses assiduously; known what it is they’re good at; been prepared to adjust their business model for China conditions and, most importantly, been prepared to make a commitment to being in the China market.”

Challenges and opportunities

However, foreign companies and businesspeople face huge challenges in China, he warned. “The country’s bureaucratic, legal and financial systems are complex, and navigating your way through them can be time-consuming. And China is a dynamic, constantly changing environment, so it takes a lot of energy to stay on top of what’s happening. There’s also the issue of scale – increasingly, you need more than just a good idea, enthusiasm and slick marketing; you need the resources and commitment to compete with Chinese AND other international competitors. Throw in the language and cultural issues, and it’s not easy.”

Opportunities do abound, though, for determined entrepreneurs. “Some general areas of opportunity include sectors aligned with Chinese priorities, such as environmental technologies, agriculture and green buildings. But the area of huge future growth is in services. Capital requirements can be lower, and there are many sub-sectors and niches that suit Australian capabilities, including franchising, training & support, health services, and the food & beverage industry.”

Let’s make a deal

Chinese people, in general, have overwhelmingly positive perceptions of Australia and Australians, according to Alan. “We’re viewed as pragmatic, innovative and straightforward. The increasing contact through Chinese students in Australia, immigration and of course the business relationships are helping to update Chinese views of Australia. In a business sense, Australians are seen as good to deal with, and forming a business relationship with an Australian company is seen as an attractive idea.”

Alan offered this advice to Australian companies and entrepreneurs wanting to expand into China: “You SHOULD understand what it is that you offer the market (so many don’t), know what you want to achieve, and be prepared to be flexible and to negotiate on most things while holding fast to core issues and principles. You should also find the right local partner, and take advice from a range of sources to stay grounded in reality!”

He continued: “You SHOULDN’T look for short cuts, rely overly on personal relationships as the answer to everything, or get involved in bribery. You also shouldn’t just look at what you can get out of your China venture – in my experience, you have to put something in before you reap a reward here.”

How can Austrade help?

Austrade has a network of 12 offices across mainland China, with excellent connections to provincial Governments, local contacts and other Australian companies in the market. “We provide a range of services that can help Australian companies to research the market, identify potential business partners, conduct trade missions, make sense of the bureaucratic procedures, set up offices and much more,” said Alan.

For more information about Austrade's services, click here

.......

ABOUT ALAN MORRELL

Alan Morrell is Austrade’s Senior Trade Commissioner in Beijing. He manages the North China network of Austrade offices, with locations in Beijing, Shenyang, Qingdao and Xian. Alan is a graduate of Murdoch University, and first visited China as a keen backpacker in 1988.

17-Jan-12 2:15 PM

There's Always a Place for Talent

Jillian Alexics - noemail@https://advance.org — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:00:00 GMT

Gina and her team have identified trends on both the client side (employers) and the candidate side (job-seekers).

On the client side, she reported: “Clients are trying to manage in an unpredictable and fragile economy. This market volatility is the new norm, so they’re looking for help to find flexible and workable solutions. One big trend is that they’re more inclined to hire staff on a contract, temporary or contingent basis rather than recruiting full-time, permanent employees.”

Another major trend is that companies are looking to make the best use of their resources across the whole region. “It’s about making the most of what they already have, by developing their people and expanding their skills.”

Outsourcing of business processes (such as HR, payroll, I.T., recruitment and learning) is an increasingly common choice for companies, according to Gina. “Companies might not want a fully functioning team inside their business, so they outsource it. They’re identifying which bits of their business they want to own and control, and which bits they want to find external partnerships and expertise for.”

On the candidate side, Gina reported that job-seekers are now more willing to accept short-term contracts rather than full-time jobs. “Gen Y people, for example, are interested in short-term projects instead of wedding themselves to one company for life. On the other end of the spectrum, people who’ve had long and substantial careers don’t necessarily want to do the 9-5 thing anymore, and are willing to take on interim management assignments. So the way people engage with organisations has changed.”

She added that both parties in the recruitment equation need to manage expectations. “The relationship between employers and employees has changed, due to changes in people’s attitudes towards work. If either party oversells and then doesn’t deliver on expectations, that’s when it gets challenging. But there’s always a place for talent.”

Business is social

Gina commented that for both companies and job-seekers, the explosive growth of social media offers many challenges and opportunities. “Our clients and candidates are asking: How do we use it? How do we market ourselves and manage our brand using social media? Which sites should we be using? What are people saying about us on social media sites?”

Maintain your sense of humour

Gina offered this tip for Australians working in Asia: “Maintain a great sense of humour and embrace what you’re experiencing. After all, you didn’t come here to live in another Australia.”

For well educated Australian professionals seeking employment in Asia, the news is good. “Australian talent is very well received in Asia, and all industries are open. Our down-to-earth nature, our entrepreneurial spirit and our ability to see the lighter side of life all fit well with the Asian psyche,” said Gina.

Taking the pulse of the market

Talent2 recently conducted a market research survey, the “Talent2 APAC Market Pulse Survey”, involving 748 senior business executives across Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. Key findings of the survey included:

Market volatility and skills shortages are now part of the business DNA in Asia Pacific (APAC).
91% of business executives across the region are concerned about an imminent recession, with some markets still experiencing volatile market conditions.
Many businesses have come to accept market volatility as the new business norm, with a large proportion feeling more prepared to respond to unstable market conditions.
Most senior business executives across the region believe in the benefits of a contingent and flexible workforce, yet the majority are still sticking to more traditional employment models. Only 12% of the APAC workforce is made up of contingent workers, compared to 22% globally.
As many as 22% of senior business executives in China complain of their employees having unrealistic expectations for high salary increases, well above the APAC average of 13%.
Most businesses in APAC (65%) have experienced problems in recruiting due to skill shortages in the past year.
Middle-management roles are the most in demand, with 79% of businesses citing the greatest shortage in this area.

……..

ABOUT GINA MCLELLAN

Gina McLellan is the Managing Director, Recruitment and Contracting, Asia, of Talent2, “the leading HR Business Process Outsourcing organisation in the Asia Pacific region”. She grew up in a small county town of 3,000 people in Queensland, studied architecture at university in Brisbane, practised architecture for several years, and then worked in sales in the pharmaceutical industry before joining the recruitment industry. She moved to Hong Kong in 2006, worked in Singapore in 2008-2009, then returned to Hong Kong in 2010. Gina was recognised in Who’s Who of Australian Women 2005-2010. She is a member of Advance and a strong supporter of Advance in Hong Kong.

17-Jan-12 2:00 PM

Mentors to Guide Australian Students

Jillian Alexics - noemail@https://advance.org — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:00:00 GMT

The program helps students find direction in their studies and refine their career goals by facilitating beneficial one-on-one relationships between students and global Australian professionals. Mentors work with undergraduates over a 12-month period, sharing their own professional experiences and knowledge to support students with/in their development goals.

•     Advanced Manufacturing
•     Biotechnology
•     Clean Technology
•     Creative Industries
•     Financial Services
•     Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
•     Social Innovation

Each category winner will be invited to be a mentor to an undergraduate of an Australian university for one year. The mentorship programme will cover:

· Job/Life Skills – mentors help students develop the skills they need to get a job and succeed in the workplace, i.e. how to prepare a resume, manage time and resolve workplace conflicts.

· Academic Success – the mentor is a positive influence on a student’s academic success, i.e. by nurturing ideas and assisting the student to overcome any academic challenges.

· Character, Social and Leadership Development – building a relationship between the mentee and the mentor, who can serve as a role model and life coach.

About the Mentorship Programme

The Mentorship Programme is designed to provide students with the foundation skills necessary for their future success within their chosen career.

The Programme’s objective is to develop a community of prospective future professionals and leaders who have a better understanding of travelling into a career path that has been crafted from working with a mentoring professional. This will give each mentee an edge on his or her professional career, and will inspire, motivate and enlighten Australia’s next generation of leaders.

Mentoring meetings will be e-mentoring sessions (via Skype and emails). Sessions will be one hour every six weeks for a period of one year. After this mentoring period, the “mentor-match” will no longer be supervised by Advance.

Jillian Alexics, Advance’s Director Asia and overseer of the Programme, said: “We are confident that the Advance Global Australian Mentorship Programme will help mentees to gain the clarity and self-awareness they need to be truly innovative leaders, and that the mentors will find that contributing their time and expertise is a rewarding way to help and nurture the next generation of leaders.”

Eligibility

Applicants must be undergraduates of recognised Australian tertiary institutions, and must be at least 18 years old as at 1 January, 2012. They must submit an online application form and explain why they feel they should be selected as a mentee.

Applications open on 13 February, 2012, and close on 29 March, 2012.

For more information about how to apply to be a mentored student, please email us at awards@advance.org.

17-Jan-12 2:00 PM

Advance names Upstream as marketing and communications partner

noemail@https://advance.org — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 19:00:00 GMT

HONG KONG, August 20, 2009 – Advance, the global community of Australians living and working overseas, has appointed Upstream Asia as its marketing and communications partner for the Asia Pacific region, effective August 1. Advance aims to raise awareness of its benefits to members and the wider community in Asia Pacific. Through a mix of strategic counsel and tactical support, Upstream will help Advance attract new members and sponsors, boost participation in its events and promote its thought leadership. Under an agreement comprising barter and professional fee components, Upstream will advise on areas including marketing, event promotion, online communications, branding, sponsorship and media relations. The agency will also provide crucial support services, such as writing, news release and distribution, media interviews and briefings. Upstream will make available its full range of services to Advance, which includes a team of experienced PR and marketing specialists, a...

Eden James Rides High With The Killers

noemail@https://advance.org — Tue, 12 May 2009 16:00:00 GMT

The wave of Australian musician Eden James is riding high of late. The multi award winner is confirmed to play this year’s Rockwave festival in Greece, along with The Killers, Moby, Placebo, Duffy, Motley Crue and Tricky. The four-day summer festival takes place outside Athens in Terra Vibe Park from 27 – 30 June. EMI will release Eden James’ latest album ‘Electric Charge’ in Greece this June. The chart-topping rocker has toured eight countries in the last few years and will return his show to Japan this December, before touching down in Australia for the holidays. The recording of his third album tentatively titled ‘Passenger:Escape’, is scheduled to begin in August 2009. For more information visit: www.edenjames.com or www.myspace.com/edenjames or email admin@edenjames.com

Advance Announces New President And Pays Tribute To Departing President

noemail@https://advance.org — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 20:00:00 GMT

Advance Announces New President And Pays Tribute To Departing President Advance – Global Australians. Global Networks, today announced that Adrian Turner is the new President of Advance taking the reigns from retiring President, Christopher Aitken. Christopher Aitken, president since 2005, has played a vital role in the development of Advance and the expansion of our global footprint to 11,000 members across 63 countries. To ensure a smooth transition, Christopher will remain on the Board of Directors and in this capacity continue to drive strategic alliances and international partnerships. Adrian Turner, has been Vice President of Advance for the past two years, and is looking forward to building from the momentum that Advance has with ongoing geographic, partnership and membership growth. Advance is grateful for Christopher’s outstanding service to the organisation, and through it, to Australians overseas. We are making significant strides in further developing our...

Advance Announces New CEO and Farewells Founding CEO

noemail@https://advance.org — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:00:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE: 11 February, 2008 Advance – Global Australians. Global Networks, today announced the appointment of Serafina Maiorano as its new Chief Executive Officer based in New York. Founding CEO, Elena Douglas, now based in Perth, will remain active in the organisation as a Director on the Advance Board. Christopher Aitken, President of Advance, announced the appointment after a global search of internationally minded Australians. We welcome Serafina to the leadership of Advance. In many ways she presents as a snapshot of the organisation's mission: global experience and a global outlook, with deep roots in Australia but connections across the world. Serafina brings to Advance a diverse and impressive professional skill base and an international reach. Her experience spans the public and private sectors, working from international consultancy to the arts, with expertise in business and strategy development as well as event management. Most recently she was General...

G'Day Google Launches UK Search for Engineers

noemail@https://advance.org — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:00:00 GMT

Google Australia searching for skilled software engineers Google Australia recently kicked off its UK search for software engineers and product managers to work in the company's Sydney office. As part of the campaign, Google Australia organised a couple of G'Day Google events at Google's London offices, proudly supported by Advance – Global Australians. Google Australia's Engineering Director, Alan Noble, explained that the Sydney office has been leading the pioneering work in Google's mapping technology and geo-spatial applications for Google, as well as working on other Google products for millions of users worldwide. Google Maps, Traffic for Google Maps and Mapplets (a tools that allows users to layer their own information over Google Maps) were all developed in Sydney, one of Google's global engineering hubs. A huge amount of internet and new technologies have geo-spatial applications at their core, and the Sydney office of Google pioneers this technology, Noble said. ...

World Class Marketing Communications Specialist Joins Advance Board

noemail@https://advance.org — Fri, 30 Mar 2007 20:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Monday 19th March 2007 , New York City “World Class Marketing Communications Specialist Joins Advance Board” Advance today announced the appointment of Liz O’Connell to the Advance Board of Directors effective immediately. President of Advance Chris Aitken said , “Liz has been involved with Advance for a number of years in several different capacities. She was the San Francisco Chair in 2005/2006 and played an integral role in the production of the Advance 100 Global Australians summit in Sydney last December”. In addition to this role, Liz also oversaw Advance’s activities during G’day USA 2007, including the high profile Aussie Innovation Shoot Out in New York supported by the Australian State governments. “Liz’s background in marketing and communications are a great addition to the Advance board – we are delighted to have her firepower on the team going forward” said Chris. Liz will...

Cytopia Chief Scientific Officer Wins Inaugural Advancing BioBusiness Award: Out To Entice More US Investors Down-Under

noemail@https://advance.org — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 03:00:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE Embargoed Until 1 March 2007 Cytopia Chief Scientific Officer Wins Inaugural Advancing BioBusiness Award: Out To Entice More US Investors Down-Under Australian biotechnology company Cytopia’s Chief Scientific Officer Dr Andrew Wilks is one of two leading life scientists chosen from a highly competitive field of candidates to receive the inaugural Advancing BioBusiness Award. A new initiative by Merck Sharp & Dohme and Advance, the programme aims to expand global connections for Australian science and facilitate more international collaborations for local biotechnology companies. After a long career in biotechnology, Dr Wilks believes it is important to entice more big international players – including those from the mature United States market – to invest in drug development programs down-under. He will attend the world’s largest biotechnology meeting, the Biotechnology International Organisation international convention in...

Boost for Biota Research Productivity: Drug Discovery Head Wins Inaugural BioBusiness Award

noemail@https://advance.org — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 03:00:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE Embargoed until 1 March 2007 Boost for Biota Research Productivity: Drug Discovery Head Wins Inaugural BioBusiness Award Dr John Lambert, Biota Executive Director Drug Discovery, is one of two leading life scientists chosen from a highly competitive field of candidates to receive the inaugural Advancing BioBusiness Award. The Award aims to expand international connections for Australian science and facilitate more global collaborations for local biotechnology companies. Biota Holdings Limited (ASX:BTA), a world-leading anti-viral drug development company, is set to improve its research productivity measurement tools, thanks to this new initiative by Merck Sharp & Dohme and Advance. Dr Lambert will attend the world’s largest biotechnology meeting, the Biotechnology Industry Organisation international convention in Boston in May, which will attract some 22,000 participants from around the globe. He will also participate in a tailored program...

Australian Biotech Leaders Set to Expand Global Connection: Inaugural Advancing BioBusiness Award Winners Announced

noemail@https://advance.org — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 03:00:00 GMT

MEDIA RELEASE Embargoed until 1 March 2007 Australian Biotech Leaders Set to Expand Global Connections: Inaugural Advancing BioBusiness Award Winners Announced Two of Australia’s leading life scientists were chosen from a highly competitive field of candidates to take part in a new initiative by Merck Sharp & Dohme and Advance to boost the capability of the country’s burgeoning biotechnology industry and gain increased health and economic benefits for the nation. Biota Executive Director Drug Discovery, John Lambert, and Cytopia’s Chief Scientific Officer, Andrew Wilks, were selected as winners of the inaugural Advancing BioBusiness Award, which aims to expand global connections for Australian science and facilitate more global collaborations for local biotechnology companies. They will attend the world’s largest biotechnology meeting, the Biotechnology Industry Organisation international convention in Boston, in May which attracts some 22,000...

Australian Expats On the Road to Ten Thousand!

noemail@https://advance.org — Wed, 23 Aug 2006 07:15:00 GMT

Media Release Australian Expats – On the Road to Ten Thousand! ‘One Million More’ produces encouraging results 22 August 2006 – Advance, the global network of Australian professionals, is on the hunt for Australia’s large disapora.There are more than one million Australians living abroad, or five percent of the population that was not counted in the National census conducted a fortnight ago. In an unprecedented move, Advance launched a census of Australians Abroad last week entitled ‘One Million More’. This census focuses on ensuring that Australia’s one million expatriates previously ignored will be represented in 2006. To date nearly 5,000 Australians have completed the census located at www.onemillionmore.com accounting for more than 8,500 Australians overseas. CEO of Advance, Elena Douglas, said she is encouraged by this start and with the momentum that has continued we expect more than 10,000 Australians will...

Communications, Marketing, Media, Public Relations

Tue, 31 May 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Desired Position Title: Communications, Marketing, Media, Public Relations Experience: MPM MARKETING SERVICES MPM Marketing Services (MPM) is Australia’s leading provider of disposable food packing products. MPM is a family owned company which exclusively owns and markets three brands being Castaway®, Costwise® and PrimeSource®. MPM now manufacturers and markets a range of over 2000 products across Australia and New Zealand. Marketing Coordinator (September 2010 to current) Online communications design and management (email newsletters). Developing and implementing marketing and communication strategies both internal and external. Developing improved processes to streamline department activities and create greater capacity for future growth. Creating report models to effectively measure and track opportunities and analytical data. Organising and attending industry trade shows, product training seminars, networking events. Monitoring follow ups from...

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:53:22 GMT

Home Meet our Writers Article of the Month Get Involved! Contact Us Courtney Patching Courtney was selected as Advance’s communications intern for the winter of 2012. Born and raised in Sydney, she now studies a Bachelor of Communications at Griffith University on the sunny Gold Coast. She is expected to graduate at the end of the year and plans to pursue a career in visual communication or advertising with previous experience in writing, illustration, digital communication and marketing. Courtney is enjoying her time in the USA and plans to one day live overseas as an Aussie expatriate.Article: Itchy Feet Sally Paridis Sally is the Global Vice Chair of the Advance Green Network and the Chair of the Advance Public & Charitable Network. In...

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:41:10 GMT

>THE AWARDS >About >Categories >Selection Criteria >Selection Panel >Eligibility >MENTORING PROGRAM >NOMINATE >NEWS & MEDIA >PARTNERS >FAQ >CONTACT US ABOUT THE AWARDS ____________________________________________________________________ Celebrating our future leaders and innovators around the world. The Advance Global Australian Awards celebrate Australians living overseas, who exhibit remarkable talent, exceptional vision, ambition and who are future leaders and innovators in their chosen field. They are the only awards to recognise the important contributions of the more than one million Australians living abroad. Advance has identified eight industry sectors that will be of particular importance to Australia and Australians in the coming decades. The winners of these categories will represent the new guard in: Advanced Manufacturing Biotechnology Clean Technology...

Advance Global Australian Awards Privacy Policy

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 22:36:02 GMT

Background Advance Global Australian Professionals (Advance) is a not-for-profit organisation funded in part by the Australian Federal Government. Why does the Advance collect personal information? Advance collects personal information, which is used on an ongoing basis, to promote the celebration of emerging thought leaders and outstanding Australians and friends of Advance and to coordinate and promote the Advance Global Australian Awards. Unless required by law, Advance will not use personal information for any other purpose, and will not disclose the information without consent. The information collected is not destroyed, but is stored in a secure manner, for historical and archival use, and in the case of photographs and moving images for ongoing publication and rebroadcast. What are the main kinds of personal information collected? For the promotion of the celebration of the Advance Global Australian Awards: -Stakeholder, supporters and event and conference attendees:...

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:18:28 GMT

>THE AWARDS >About >Categories >Selection Criteria >Selection Panel >Eligibility >MENTORING PROGRAM >NOMINATE >NEWS & MEDIA >PARTNERS >FAQ >CONTACT US FAQ ____________________________________________________________________ What is the purpose of these Awards? What is the process for nominating for an Award? What is the process for nominating to be mentored by an Award winner? When do nominations for the Award close? What are the selection criteria for an Award nominee? Who is eligible to be nominated for an Advance Global Australian Award? Who is eligible to be nominated for an Advance Global Alumni Award? How do I nominate myself or someone else for an Award? Who is eligible to be Mentored by an Award winner? What are the Award categories? Is the Awards Ceremony open to the public? How long have the Awards been running? What is the purpose of these Awards? Advance,...

Home - events and advertising

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:09:14 GMT

Advance receives funding support from the Australian Government

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 02:06:40 GMT

>Overview >Welcome Message >Pitching Workshops >Mentoring Program >Summit >Advance TV >Launch Events >FAQs >News & Media >Partners >Contact Us PARTNERS ____________________________________________________________________ Presenting Partner Advance receives funding support from the Australian Government Normal.dotm 0 0 1 208 1188 Advance 9 2 1458 12.0 0 false 18 pt 18 pt 0 0 false false false With Support From Event Supporter ...

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:37:59 GMT

>THE AWARDS >About >Categories >Selection Criteria >Selection Panel >Eligibility >MENTORING PROGRAM >NOMINATE >NEWS & MEDIA >PARTNERS >FAQ >CONTACT US CATEGORIES ____________________________________________________________________ The Advance Global Australian Award - Overall Winner The overall winner is selected from the winners of the eight (8) categories below. The Advance Global Australian Award - Category Winner The eight categories are: Advanced Manufacturing Biotechnology Clean Technology Creative Industries Financial Services Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Mining & Resources Social Innovation The Selection Panel upholds the right to move a nomination from one category to another at any given time. The Advance Global Alumni Award - Special Award This Award recognises the achievements of an alumnus of Australian Universities who are not Australian...

London 2nd Column

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:51:11 GMT

On Australia Day the Advance Arts London group joined forces with the London Australian Film Society (LAFS) to celebrate our national day with a screening of The Man From Snowy River at Shortwave Films in Bermondsey Square. The house was full and there wasn't a dry eye - either because of laughing at the cheesy lines or the homesickness as a result of the gorgeous panoramas. To hear more about the Advance Arts London group and their regular outings please email laila2001@hotmail.com, join the LAFS mailing list at lafsociety@hotmail.com or find LAFS on Facebook. Check out photos from the night on the Advance Facebook Page!

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:32:30 GMT

>Overview >Welcome Message >Pitching Workshops >Mentoring Program >Summit >Advance TV >Launch Events >FAQs >News & Media >Partners >Contact Us NOVEMBER 2011 - LAUNCH EVENTS _____________________________________ In conjunction with the Australian Government, Advance launched its 50 for the Future Innovation Program with events in Sydney and Melbourne in November 2011. The events brought together the who’s who of global Australian innovation for two half-day sessions of inspiration, insights, and actionable advice. Each session was highly interactive, with an emphasis on practical guidance aimed at helping early-stage businesses plot the path to successful commercialisation. Speakers included: Mike Cannon-Brookes - Atlassian Mick Liubinskas - Pollenizer Matt Barrie - Freelancer Larry Marshall - Southern Cross Venture Partners Niki Scevak -...

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 23:25:30 GMT

>THE AWARDS >About >Categories >Selection Criteria >Selection Panel >Eligibility >MENTORING PROGRAM >NOMINATE >NEWS & MEDIA >PARTNERS >FAQ >CONTACT US PARTNERS ____________________________________________________________________ Advance receives funding support from the Australian Government GOLD PARTNER EVENT, COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA PARTNERS For more information about sponsorship opportunities please contact Serafina Maiorano, CEO of Advance at serafina@advance.org

Professional Services Network Event Survey

noemail@https://advance.org — Wed, 21 May 2008 22:00:00 GMT