2024 Canberra Visit

Morton Philips continue to engage with senior candidates and valued clients across the country, most recently in the ACT where we have been appointed to recruit the Chief Executive for the Royal Flying Doctor Service who will be located in Canberra. We recently successfully managed the process to appoint the Director for the Defence Research Institute also based in Canberra.  It was doubled as an opportunity to catch up with contacts who have recently moved to our capital this year and we have missed not seeing them in Adelaide. So a business trip happened for Phil Morton and Katherine Myers-Scott to interview prospective candidates, meet with clients and pay a visit to landmarks, appreciating what Canberra has to offer.

Following a check in at the Rydges, the meetings commenced across several locations which meant a sprint along the highway to follow a rigorous schedule of meetings with clients and candidates across the 2 days.

We were able to visit Parliament House meeting with MP’s and dignitaries as well as sitting in to observe the Senate in session which is an enlightening experience, we recommend for everyone visiting Canberra.

The final meeting of day one was a catch up with the Deputy Secretary, Naval Ship building and Sustainment Group at Defence Australia - Jim McDowell. Seeing a friendly and familiar face, hearing about his life in Canberra and understanding the breadth of his role was a humbling experience. In fact everyone we met across the 2 days were so welcoming and engaging and we were grateful for their time and attention.

A quiet and delicious dinner at one of Canberra’s top restaurants (KOTO) allowed for time to reflect on the day, plan for day 2 and the ensuing trip home to Adelaide. Phil hit the streets early for a brisk 1-degree temperature walk and to take in the sunrise while Katherine hit the hotel's gym before breakfast. Further meetings in the morning before a poignant visit to the War Memorial which was a perfect way to finish our visit to the nation's capital. The War Memorial is a historical reminder of commitments made by our predecessors worth experiencing and appreciating.

We thank everyone we met with for their time it was a truly valuable trip for our team and we're grateful for each connection. See you next time.

‍