66. MICHELLE O'KEEFFE

This interview by Allan Sicard on The Courage to Lead Interview Series delivers a story that we do not see that often.  A CEO and a Company that genuinely puts their people first and from that building an amazing culture and a profitable business. This is the story of leadership from Michelle O'Keeffe, CEO of Engaging.io a technology business in North Sydney that recently placed in the top 10 workplaces for the Great Place to Work Australia in small businesses for 2024-5 and ranked in the top 3 for Technology business. Michelle O'Keeffe emphasised the importance of helping employees achieve their career goals, even if it means they move on to other opportunities. This open and supportive approach to employee development is a cornerstone of their culture. Imagine working for a company that supported you in this way.  Another great focus that Michelle and her team have is if clients put pressure on staff to work 24/7, after hours and on weekends Michelle will push back on the client and advise them that's not they do business.  We will work hard for you Monday to Friday in business hours and provide you with an excellent outcome - that's why you chose us.  How many bosses will do that for their staff. Is it any wonder their is a waiting list for Engaging.IO to work there.  There are always prospective staff knocking on the door wanting to work for Michelle and her team.   This is truly a story about leaders putting people first and what comes from that.  We need more stories and more leaders like Michelle O'Keeffe and Engaging.IO.  A special thank you for Great Place to Work Australia for highlighting that these type of workplaces exist and are more than possible. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM.