Although Janet Michelmore ended up heading an organisation set up honouring the work of her mother, women's health advocate Dr Jean Hailes, she says her family can take no credit for the not-for-profit's roots.
"Mum was only 61 when she died. We were so devastated it took us a long time to get back on our bikes. But after a huge amount of persuasion from mum's colleagues, I joined the board to [figure out] what was needed. There was a clear need to provide good services and education programs to woman, and [to do] really good research," she says.
The organisation - Jean Hailes for Women's Health - now focuses on women's health from the teenage years through to adulthood, menopause and well beyond. Michelmore is the first to admit that some of the subject matter isn't an easy sell in terms of fundraising.
"Menopause is right up there with periods. When women's health turns to gynaecological issues, people turn the other way and think, 'I don't want to talk about this'," she says.
However, this is only half the challenge.
"We're really about the prevention message, not about acute care ... While we know it's the economic way to go and that's where you can absolutely save money, it's still not a message people really understand or appreciate," she says.
To combat this, Michelmore draws on her earlier career as a teacher of adolescent girls.
"You have to know how to get [people] fired up, and be very clear in your communication strategy. Those two lessons have really helped me in the work I do," she says.
Although the organisation's not-for-profit status means the workplace is devoid of glossy office spaces or June 30 bonuses, Michelmore prides herself on the fact it's both friendly and collaborative. Still, that doesn't mean there's a dearth of opinions.
"Clinicians, researchers, educators, marketers and communicators all have different styles. I like to listen to opposing views and critical comments. It's about hearing people out, but at the end of it you have to ask, 'What is the best outcome for the organisation, the community and health professionals?'.
What draws all her staff members together is innovation and passion for their work.
"Our real aim is to provide innovative programs for both health professionals and the community. So we look for people really prepared to think outside the square."
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Janet Michelmore AO
Current position: Executive Director, Jean Hailes for Women's Health
Responsibilities: Leadership of a national women's health organisation that successfully integrates research, clinical care and community and health professional education. Education: · Bachelor of Arts, Diploma of Education · Partially completed Bachelor of Special Education, Monash University Additional training/courses: N/a.
Professional associations: · Australasian Menopause Society · International Menopause Society Honourable mentions: · 2001 Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) · 2003 Centenary Medal · 2013 Victorian Honour Roll
Strength: "I love people. They give me every bit of energy I have. I hope I come across as honest, genuine and being able to listen to all sides of the argument, but as a boss you can't sit on the fence, you have to be able to make a decision."
Weakness: "I give people the benefit of the doubt for [a little] too long. I don't see negatives early enough."
Management style and tips: "Friendly and open. I have robust conversations with people quite often, but they're not personal; they're about an approach. I try to admit when I'm wrong, and I hope I do that the whole time."
Work motto: "Love what you do, or do what you love."
