In this series, we’re taking a look at some of the most creative faces in Melbourne with some help from our friend Kathleen Gunther, who partners with independent agencies across Australia and New Zealand to scale their brand presence and drive sustainable growth. Ash Chand is the acting CEO of the LOTE agency, a specialist in multicultural communications and a dedicated advocate for mental health and social inclusion.
1. How long have you been in Melbourne and if you weren’t born here, did you choose it or did it choose you?
I have been in Melbourne since 1999 when i was 6, I was born in Sydney and lived in Minto which was a low socioeconomic area, the reason for the move from Sydney was due to family and our house being broken into multiple times. Melbourne has since chosen me, im proud to call it home and the culture encapsulates me.
2. What’s the most Melbourne thing about the way your team works?
We are based in the trendy suburb of Collingwood. The most Melbourne aspect of our team’s operation is that we think differently. We work in a warehouse with a big open glasshouse to ideate by writing on walls and debate complex social issues and how to solve them. Plus we work at a pace that is in line with coffee…..
3. Who in the local industry has shaped the way you think about leadership or doing business? Tell us about them.
Without looking internal (as my team has shaped the way I think about leadership and doing business!). Our previous CEO, David Bartlett mentored me into my current position and led with empathy and humanity. We are also working together on a immersive leadership experience designed within Google called ExaminedHUMAN, which focuses on understanding humans. This taught me that business isnt just about EBIDTA, it is about impact.
I would say Arj Ganeshalingam the former COO of Porter Novelli who has started a communications advisory MGR&CO. Arj and I developed a relationship a few years ago when our agencies collaborated. His approach to business, grounded in empathy showed signs of a true leader.
4. What’s got you most excited about where the industry is heading locally?
As we focus on equity and human-centered design, our clients are increasingly looking to engage and communicate with multicultural communities at an accelerating rate. I also feel like the increased spotlight and focus on place-based engagement outreach is great; I love building relationships within the community, which is pivotal in a world of AI.
5. If you were a Melbourne landmark, what would you be?
Not a landmark, but probably a hook turn – confusing to those who don’t know it, continuously moving but always moving with intention.
Kathleen Gunther is the founder of Gunther Consulting, partnering with independent agencies across Australia and New Zealand to scale their brand presence and drive sustainable growth. With expertise spanning digital marketing, brand strategy, PR and communications, she brings the pragmatism, specialist connections and industry know-how to help agencies market their most important client — themselves. Kathleen also serves as a Board Member of AWIA, actively shaping Australia’s digital landscape and championing inclusivity in the industry.
