Ilana has ~15 years of experience in building and executing strategies across a wide array of industry verticals and themes. She joined Telstra in 2012 in the Chief Marketing Office, where she lead the media and partnership function, prior to moving into Telstra Enterprise in 2014.
She now works in the Growth and Strategic Markets group where she leads the strategy development and implementation for Drones and UAVs, Asset Inspection and Agribusiness. The team has a global remit and works to remain ahead of the trends so that Telstra can work with its customers to drive innovation and growth across multiple industries. When back in Sydney, Ilana works a Commercial Helicopter Pilot in her down time.
Ilana will be heading to Westech Field Days this year as part of the Free Entrepreneur Matching Program being run in the Innovation Space & Technology Precinct. We’ve asked Ilana a few questions so you can get to know her, and then if you’re interested you can register to meet Ilana in a ‘one on one mentoring moment’ here.
What does innovation mean to you?
Innovation is not technology, it is a shift or change in thinking in order to do something differently. Technology can be an enabler for that…
Who would you love to see registering for your mentoring sessions?
Anyone who is interested in having a conversation! You never know what you will learn from meeting someone new.
What is the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
Act like a challenger and always be humble and genuine. Cut the bull sh*t!
What is your advice to anyone thinking about starting up their own business?
Be true to yourself and fight for what you believe in. You will have wins and losses, but everything is a lesson and an opportunity.
Who has been the most influential person in your career?
My Grandfather. He never gave up at anything he did, always stayed grounded and always put his family first.
What is your greatest achievement?
Chasing my dreams and becoming a pilot
Why a helicopter pilot and how has it changed your perspective?
Apart from being a life long ambition, being a pilot has exposed me to all types of people – differing backgrounds, different socio-economic status, different ambitions, but the one thing we all have in common is flying and regardless of who someone is, it grounds people and there is a mutual respect there. Reminds you that people are just people. Additionally, working every weekend give me an amazing work life balance. It is a release from the week and resets me.
Book your one-on-one mentoring moment with Ilana here.
