In her current role as CEO of CCEL Vanessa Pigrum is responsible for shaping the strategic direction of an organisation seeking to transform the Australian leadership debate to one where leaders put ethics at the centre of their decision making.
Throughout her career, Vanessa has been compelled to work with organisations that strive to implement bold ideas and create positive impacts for society.
Vanessa has over 25 years’ experience in the creative industries sector and in leadership development, where her focus and passion has long been in driving strategic transformation within organisations and teams. Vanessa’s leadership roles with organisations such as the Arts Centre Melbourne, the City of Darebin Creative Culture, the Melbourne Fringe Festival, and CHUNKY MOVE have seen her develop innovative programs, navigate complex stakeholder relationships and drive international commercial activity.
Prior to Vanessa’s transition into organisational management roles, she studied Law and then trained as a performer and theatre-maker at the Victorian College of the Arts before forging a successful career as a freelance creative producer in the festivals sector. In 2018 Vanessa gained credentials as a mediator and executive coach.
Vanessa is also the Chair of the Next Wave Festival, a biennial multi-arts festival for emerging and experimental artists. The Next Wave Festival is committed to social and cultural diversity, environmental sustainability and inclusion.