1. How did you get involved (and why) this program specifically?
John Arnott: When I reflect on my career, I’m very grateful for the mentoring I have had – both formally and informally. It’s helped me navigate some tricky situations at work and strike a better balance overall, so I felt I wanted to give back and help others, the way others have helped me.
I also know Wendy and her passion for helping this segment, so it felt a logical option to give back and support a program that is well sponsored
2. Why is mentoring women in the industry so important for its future success?
JA: Diversity of thinking. The industry is going through structural change which will create challenges and opportunities. Ensuring there is an appropriate balance and diversity in the industry is super important to help navigate this change, and having worked very closely with the media sector over the last 25 years, I think there is a lot of upside opportunity
3. Who are/were your mentors, and what did you learn from them?
JA: I’ve had mentors that were both official and unofficial. Bosses / peers / ex-colleagues / friends. A mentor is more defined by what they give you, the time they commit and the trust and transparency, as opposed to an official role.
The biggest thing I have learned is to be comfortable being me, and ensuring I have the right levels of self-confidence. For me, this generally means having roles which are strength-
based – things I enjoy and feel I am good at. This fuels confidence, which fuels leadership
4. If you could offer one piece of advice to all future leaders, what would it be and why?
JA: Don’t think too far ahead. Lives and careers are full of twists and turns. Have a plan and a direction of travel, but don’t be dogmatic. Embrace change as an opportunity and enjoy the journey!
