Testimonials

“Melanie from Elm Communications has been an essential strategy rudder in our communications function. The communications framework she developed for the Entrepreneurs’ Programme meant that we had a strong focus and clear direction, allowing us to filter out any distractions and deliver outcomes. Mel’s ongoing support has allowed the communications team to remain focussed on the tasks at hand while having someone to rely on for invaluable strategic guidance and advice – backed up with practical plans and briefs that we could put into action.”

Crystal Prior, Communications Manager Entrepreneurs’ Programme – Department of Industry, Science, Energy & Resources

“Mel is simply amazing and can turn her hand to any communications challenge. Mel was a pivotal member of our small team managing the recent MoG changes. She was responsive, flexible, influential and able to work through significant ambiguity to come up with strategies and products that really hit the mark. I can’t wait to work with her again.“

Jessica Douglas, MoG Taskforce, Department of the Environment and Energy

“Mel is everything you would want in a professional partnership. Mel takes the time to understand your need, provides measured and well-crafted advice and delivers what she has promised often to a higher standard and well before you need it. Mel’s superior strategic capability ensures she considers more than just the basics of an engagement and offers valuable advice throughout. Mel has an engaging personality and this means she listens but also relates well to stakeholders and has a knack of bringing people on your journey with you“

Jo Stone, Chief Financial Officer and National People Manager AFSA

“I could always depend on Melanie’s advice and the quality of her work. With a client- oriented ethos of continuous improvement, she was constantly proactive in developing relevant strategies and translating them into structured plans for her team to execute. She was unfailingly constructive however high the pressure. It was always a pleasure to work with Melanie. She is a true communications professional – creative and practical, responsive and insightful.”

Chloe Munro AO, Former Chair – Clean Energy Regulator

“I commissioned Melanie to review the systems and processes within my team to identify ways to improve our productivity and efficiency. Working in a high-pressure, fast-paced media environment, I needed someone who understood the nature of our work to make recommendations that were applicable and realistic. Mel’s proposed plan was comprehensive, and her diligence to each aspect resulted in a greater understanding of the gaps in our team than initially anticipated. Throughout the project, Mel provided expert advice on the direction we should be taking to reach our desired goals. She met all the deadlines and remained in regular contact. Mel delivered a short workshop for the team, which was well-run and the team found to be highly useful and enjoyable. The final report and recommendations were considered, informed and suited our working environment. We have implemented all the recommendations and I can see an increase in output and team morale. Mel was a pleasure to work with, and I would very pleased to work with her again.”

Jo Meehan, Manager Strategic Communications – ANU Media

“Working with Melanie at Elm Communications was a great experience. She really understood our needs and delivered communication expertise that guided us in making decisions about our project. She provided excellent client service. From the initial briefing through to the delivery of their final recommendations, Melanie was always available to answer questions and went above and beyond to help us deliver our project. The best thing about working with Elm Communications is their responsiveness. Being a small, boutique consultancy meant that we had easy and direct access to professional, quality advice and Melanie was receptive and flexible in meeting our needs and timeframes.”

Claire Taylor, Director Internal Communications – Australian National Audit Office

“Melanie’s unwavering focus on service has built a high level of trust personally and for her team. Melanie has changed the way that people in the agency consider communications and has built respect for the value her team contributes. Many in the agency have commented that this team is one of the best in the Commonwealth.”

Chris Ramsden, Chief Operations Officer – Clean Energy Regulator

“Melanie has a highly professional, and in my experience, highly effective management approach. She exudes a calm authority and addresses issues clearly, decisively and with empathy. I am fortunate to have worked in senior roles in the British and NSW Governments. I have also established and run my own small business. I know that people with Melanie’s mix of skills and highly professional attitude are rare.”

Nick Rowley, Former Assistant Secretary – Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency

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