Women in Print is celebrating the successful conclusion of its inaugural Executive Leadership Program, and its first Annual Leadership Dinner which saw an impressive first cohort of program attendees and their guests gather for a sumptuous three-course dinner and coffee in the elegant Mallouff Boardroom at the heritage-listed O’Connell’s Hotel in South Melbourne.

The two-day intensive and intimate program brought together experienced and aspiring leaders from the print community for a transformative experience of professional growth and networking.

Stephanie Gaddin, Chair of Women in Print Australia, commenting on the vibrant atmosphere of the program and the leadership dinner, said, “What an incredible couple of days! The energy and engagement from this pioneering group of ambitious leaders and aspiring leaders has been truly inspiring. 

“We set out to create a program for leaders already in motion, and to see them connect, share, and grow has been a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together.”

The program was expertly guided by Master Certified Executive Coach Jo Wise, who led the cohort through interactive workshops and peer collaboration, helping each participant to define and workshop their personal leadership styles, create a personal leadership action plan, and integrate the many discussions, conversations and workshop outcomes into actionable strategies to take back to the working environment immediately. 

“We are so grateful for the incredible guidance of Jo Wise, whose expertise and passion were instrumental in the success of this program,” said Gaddin. “She created a space where our attendees could be vulnerable, courageous, and truly step into their power as leaders.”

Participants also expressed their praise for the organisation and delivery of the program, and for her insightful and supportive facilitation. 

Rita Karagiannis, Deputy Chair of Women in Print Australia, and Patron for Victoria said, “The 2-day course was fantastic; verty practical and engaging. As it was a smaller group we got to share real life scenarios and Jo was able to provide great strategies on how to be a more effective leader. I enjoyed learning about how to create my own personal brand and revisiting the GROW model was so useful and important. The venue and catering was fantastic also.”

“This program has given me a reality check on my leadership, helping me recognise the habits I didn’t even realise I had. It has provided the tools and confidence to grow. It’s shown me that I’m already leading in ways I hadn’t noticed and has truly shaped how I see myself as a leader,” said Marisa Smyrneos, Sales Executive – Sign, Display & Digital Solutions Ball & Doggett, who came in from Adelaide to attend the two-day course, supported by her employer. 

Gaddin extended her gratitude to all the businesses that invested in their team members. 

“A huge thank you to the forward-thinking companies that supported their people to be here, especially those who travelled from interstate. Your investment in developing strong, diverse leadership is an investment in the future of our entire industry,” she said.

It’s this kind of support in the activities, skills development and workshop programs of our growing association that allows us to build a more inclusive and dynamic community for everyone.”

Following the success of this landmark event, the Board will  be working to include a broader series of similar events across the country in the 2026 calendar. 

Up next are the Print & Prosecco casual evening networking events, taking place through September and October – tickets are opening soon, so keep an eye out for more announcements and social media blasts. 

Photo Caption : moving across L to right  

Brooke Schade - Ball & Doggett (Melbourne) , Irene Daws – WINC and Women in Print Australia Secretary, Rita Karagiannis – IVE Group and Women in Print Deputy Chair, Tamara Hodgkinson – Myer (behind Rita) , Sam Rogers – Drive Creative ( back) , Stephanie Gaddin – Rocking Rose and Women in Print Chair , Kirsten Taylor – Taylor’d Press and PacPrint 2025 Board,  Marisa Smyrneos – Ball & Doggett (Adelaide) ( front) , Kerrie Alcock – Labels Plus (Brisbane) (behind Marisa)  , Jo Wise – Jo Wise Leadership (far right)