CQUni graduates recognised throughout State as 'top managers'
Published on 19 October, 2011
CQUniversity graduates have been recognised throughout Queensland as category winners for regional events hosted by the Australian Institute of Management.
Seven of our Alumni have won categories at AIM events held in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton, and Gladstone (incorporating Bundaberg area).
Dean of Management & Marketing Professor Roger March has welcomed this news, saying it must be exciting for the award recipients.
"This is another indication of the quality of our degrees and that we are producing graduates able to be leaders in their fields," he said.
Congratulations to Mackay category winner Leigh Morgan, Rockhampton category winners Geoff Higgins and John Bryant, Townsville winners Kate Jacka and Roslyn Dalton, Gladstone winner Kaye Cooper and Cairns winner Rob Watson:
Mackay Owner Manager of the Year Leigh Morgan - CV09 Grad. Dip. Learning & Teaching 2006 (Flex) - Leigh Morgan displayed both courage and initiative in identifying a need for the Mackay Language College. She developed the local and international relationships that are critical to not only the success of the business, but her students' future development as well. Leigh's caring nature is evident in her management style, as is the passion she has for what she does. It was her understated yet determined approach to management that impressed the judges.
Rockhampton Owner Manager of the Year Geoff Higgins - CF65 Master of Business Admin 2006 (Flex) - Geoff Higgins and his wife Peta-Anne have successfully run their management consultancy Performance People for 13 years. Their business relies on creating and maintaining relationships and providing valuable instruction and advice. Most of Geoff's business is repeat business, which is a testament to his philosophy of personal service and professional approach. He considers it a privilege to be invited to work closely with a client to assist in organisational development.
Rockhampton Professional Manager of the Year John Bryant - CA01 Bachelor of Business 1976 (Rton) - John Bryant's intelligent use of innovation and great attention to detail are hallmarks of a great professional manager. Under John's watch, Rocky's Own Transport is recognised as a leader in forward-thinking initiatives such as developing a carbon strategy, and is the nation's only advanced fatigue management operator. John has also made a major contribution as a business mentor and demonstrates excellence in leadership and management. He is a worthy recipient of this award.
Townsville Young Manager of the Year Kate Jacka - CF 59 Bachelor of Science (Psychology) 2009 (Rton) - Kate Jacka coordinates the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre and the Cooinda Family Centre, managing staff and volunteers to deliver a wide range of community services. Kate's understanding and demonstrated capabilities in managing complex budgets, often with unsecured funding sources, human resources management including a large number of unpaid volunteers, and the delivery of services in a challenging environment prone to uncertainty, impressed the judges.
Townsville Professional Manager of the Year Roslyn Dalton - CA03 - Bachelor of Applied Science (Chemistry) 1996 (Rton) - As Senior Operations Improvement Superintendent for Queensland Nickel, Roslyn Dalton leads a team of process engineers, chemists and project leaders to identify and resolve technical issues around the worksite. Her clear emphasis on improving production is passed down through her team within a framework of inclusion, accountability and shared success. The judges said that Roslyn demonstrated initiative as a self-starter who is not afraid to take problems beyond her normal sphere of influence.
Gladstone Owner Manager of the Year Kaye Cooper - CA24 Associate Diploma of Business 1988 (Flex) - Kaye Cooper, Principal and Practice Manager at Kaye L Cooper and Associates, established her firm of Certified Practicing Accountants in May 1989. She has grown it into one of the most respected accounting firms in public practice in Gladstone, realising steady growth in the services it offers, in its client base and its turnover. Kaye demonstrated to the judges the drive and commitment that makes for a winning owner. She explained the structure and strategy of her firm in detail and was very clear about the value she places on her team and their development.
Cairns Rural/Remote Manager of the Year Rob Watson - CA04 Bachelor of Applied Science (Biology) 1982 (Rton) - Rob is recognised for his role with Mungalli Creek Dairy. Mungalli Creek's Milk, Gourmet Greek Style and Natural Set Yoghurts, Soft and Hard Cheeses are created with the upmost care in the pristine surrounds of North Queensland's World Heritage Rainforests.