Human on the Inside with Twenty Percent’s Emma Olivier
Human on the Inside. We’re big believers in the power of human skills. But don’t just take our word for it - the evidence for excellence powered by human (‘soft’) skills is everywhere! In this engaging, ever-enlightening series, we speak with industry leaders, innovators and game-changers to learn a little about their personal career journeys, and how human-led strategies, philosophies and cultures are proving a force for good in their working worlds …
Maxme: Welcome Emma, and thanks for stepping into the #SuccessIsHuman Spotlight!
You’re the founder and CEO of Twenty Percent, a Disability Inclusion Advisory working with Corporate Australia.
In 1 sentence (ok, we’ll give you 3), what does this role entail?
Emma Oliver: I work with organisations to move the dial in disability inclusion. Working collaboratively with our clients, we co-create and develop action plans, strategies, policies and processes that promote access and inclusion.
M: Following almost 20 years at Accenture, you moved into the role of GM Operations for the Energy & Water Ombudsman (Victoria) followed by GM Corporate Services at Lochard Energy. Returning to Accenture, you completed three years as Managing Director before founding Twenty Percent almost two years ago. You currently sit on several Boards including Housing Hub, Wannon Water and most recently GOTAFE.
How does all this work speak to your personal purpose and what drives you as an individual?
EO: As a person with a disability, I’m deeply passionate about people with disability being at every table where decisions are made. We are just over 20% of the population, and yet we are often not thought of as leaders and decision-makers. The value-ad opportunity we can create if we embrace disability is unlimited.
M: Tell us a little about your personal education pathway/s - what led you to where you are now? How closely do your formal qualifications match your current career?
EO: I have a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and am a Chartered Accountant. I am also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. I have also commenced post-graduate studies in Disability and Inclusion. Education is a lifelong journey. It’s never too late to add to your education kit bag!
M: If you could share one piece of career advice to your 21 year old self it would be ...
EO: I would talk about the fact that I have one arm and I would be proud to be disabled. I was 21 in 1991 - I never spoke about having one arm - and thought having a disability was not something to be proud of. I would challenge my 21-year-old self to change that!
M: Maximising the potential of individuals, communities and businesses through the power of human skills is the reason Maxme exists. Can you tell us a little about the role and / or value of human skills in your workplace right now?
EO: People are at the centre of what I do. Valuing the unique contribution that everyone makes is core to the work I do bringing disability inclusion alive for my clients.
M: Self Awareness sets the critical foundation for all Maxme learning experiences. With that said … what’s your strongest trait / personal super power?
EO: Ever tried tying your shoe laces up with one hand? I can and do often :) And it shows I am a great problem solver, persistent, determined and patient, especially with myself!
M: And on the flip side, what’s one human / ‘soft’ skill you’ve had to really work on improving over the course of your career?
EO: I would say talking myself out of something before I even try it, and underestimating my own value. We all have self-doubt but we should not let it get in the way of stepping outside our comfort zones.
M: If you could share one piece of career advice with recent Uni graduates or candidates what would it be?
EO: Say YES to every opportunity, especially the things that scare you. You never know where it might lead!
M: You’ve been granted approval to add one University graduate to your team, but have 100 applicants, all with outstanding academic results. How do you find your perfect candidate - what are you looking for?
EO: A great attitude and a willingness to learn. Skill is much easier to teach than a good attitude!
M: In the words of John Dewey, “education is not preparation for life, education is life itself.”
What’s next on your #learning agenda?
EO: Finishing my post-graduate studies in 2025!
Ready to develop the human skills within your organisation, team or self? Explore our menu of Maxme Products & Programs or simply download the Hodie app to get started today.
Prefer to talk through your options? Simply contact us at any time.
More human goodness you might like:
