Q & A – Associate Kelly Rossi

1.    We value your contribution to CT Management Group; what drew you to becoming a consultant?

I was introduced to the calibre of CT Associates through a Council tender with Tim Brown.  I was drawn to the opportunity to use my procurement and waste management experience to assist the wider Council community.

2.    What is your specialist area, and why are you interested in that field?

I often say to colleagues and clients that once you are ingrained in the waste and sustainability industry you will always be a “wastie”.  The area of sustainability and circular economy is only increasing and having roles in both state and local government allows me to traverse the expectations of each level of government to meet Council’s objectives.

I also think procurement is an underrated area of expertise, often coming in to ‘clean up’ and ensure the process complies with policy and legislation, so that no one makes the next news headline.  Whilst most Council Officers find the details mundane, I enjoy leading the process and providing training to make it easy for them to understand.

3.    What has been your career highlight to date?

In recent years it would be developing and releasing the first round of recycling grants under the State Govt’s Recycling Victoria A New Economy Policy – in the heart of COVID no less.

I have just celebrated my 2^nd anniversary as a consultant, with CT engagements providing a sustainable pathway to my work.

4.    What was the last thing you read – was it a report, novel or newspaper?

After 17 years of apartment living we have recently moved into our home. I’m keen to put my sustainability lens into practice and start our own vegetable garden so Edible Gardens A Practical Guide was last on the reading list (we have been known to kill cactus, so wish us luck).

5.    How do you relax- is it music, meditation, or something else?

Meditation is a necessary tool in the workday ritual, but binge-watching terrible TV is my guilty pleasure. I am currently getting through Emily in Paris, although not targeted to my demographic I find it a fun outlet where I don’t have to think.

6.    When you are away from work, what do you like doing?

We have a very active extended family life – nephews and my husband’s grandkids, and of course we’re now parenting our parents.  Date nights out for dinner is my standard Saturday night, and since moving from South to West we’re discovering new favourites, suggestions welcome.

7.    Are you a sportsperson or a spectator, and what’s sport?

Since the advent of Drive to Survive I rather enjoy watching the F1, as well as tennis and football (although they’re both completely different from the 80s versions I watched as a kid, so fast).  I have plans to do the UK triple in 2027 – Silverstone, Wimbledon and Lords (that bit for my husband).

8.    Is there something you’d like to tell us about yourself that you think would surprise us?

I can marry you.  I have been an Authorised Civil Celebrant for 9 years.  These days I only do a handful of weddings, but it’s still such an amazing moment to be a part of.

9.    In a world with so many leaders and achievers – is there one person that gives you inspiration, why?

This is super easy – my mum.  She was one of the pioneer women leaders at the Shell company and taught me about treating everyone as equal, giving everyone a fair go, to support and defend those who are too afraid to fight for themselves, that those that treat you as an adversary have the bigger problem. Most importantly she taught me that knowledge isn’t power, it should be shared with others, because even if everyone knows what you know, no one can do it quite like you.