Navigating the career path in Wellbeing - A Journey with Rhiannon
In episode 115 of the Well Workplaces Podcast, we delve into the inspiring career journey of Rhiannon, a seasoned professional in the health and wellbeing industry. From her unexpected start as a podiatrist to her current role as the Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Manager at Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (SMCT), Rhiannon's story is a testament to the diverse and dynamic nature of the field.
Finding the Footing in Health and Wellbeing
Rhiannon's career began in an unlikely place – Podiatry. A choice fueled by a desire to contribute to the health industry, she initially aimed for sports podiatry. However, a shift in focus occurred during the biomechanics section of her course, revealing a dislike for the subject. Despite nearing the finish line, Rhiannon found herself at a crossroads.
After two years of practicing podiatry, the landscape changed drastically with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The lockdowns in Melbourne reshaped the aged care setting where Rhiannon worked, dimming the passion she once had for podiatry. This pivotal moment led her to explore opportunities outside the traditional healthcare setting.
Click below for the Full episode.
A Surprising Turn of Events
Enter SMCT, an unconventional destination for someone with a podiatry background. Initially hesitant about a position in the health and wellbeing space within a cemetery setting, Rhiannon decided to give it a try. Little did she know, this leap would open up a new chapter in her career.
Rhiannon started as a Health and Wellbeing Coordinator at SMCT and, over the years, rose to the role of Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Manager. The journey reflects her dedication to making a meaningful impact on a broader scale, transcending individual care to a population-level approach.
Challenges and Triumphs in Managing Wellbeing
Managing health, safety, and wellbeing for over 360 employees across nine sites posed a unique set of challenges for Rhiannon. The diversity of roles, from outdoor operations to sales and marketing, required a tailored approach that addressed individual needs while fostering a unified program.
领英推荐
The challenge lay in creating a program that wasn't merely a checkbox for compliance but a holistic strategy that resonated with employees. Rhiannon's multidisciplinary approach, inspired by her experiences in aged care, resulted in the development of SMCT's Activate Health Program.
The Activate Health Program: A Holistic Approach
At the core of SMCT's wellbeing strategy lies the Activate Health Program, a comprehensive initiative designed to integrate safety and wellbeing seamlessly. The program's success hinges on its holistic nature, addressing the diverse needs of employees across various teams.
The program is built on four pillars:
Lessons Learned and Future Prospects
Rhiannon's journey into health and wellbeing management teaches us the importance of adaptability and the power of a holistic approach. As the industry continues to evolve, the future of health and wellbeing looks promising. The growing focus on creating healthy workplaces, supported by legislation and a surge in job opportunities, signals a positive shift in societal priorities.
In summary, Rhiannon's story is a helpful reminder for those navigating their career paths in the health and wellbeing industry. It is a perfect reminder that continual learning and professional development can lead to new beginnings.
Remember to subscribe for more episodes as we explore more stories on how workplaces are addressing the health and wellbeing of their people.
Chief Digital Officer (CDO)
10 个月Rhiannon is an amazing HSW professional whose passion for the physical, psychological and emotional wellbeing of everyone in our organisation is contagious. She has made a huge impact on her journey so far, and will continue to do so. I am so grateful to have her as part of our team. Thank you Rhiannon Puddy!