Sue O'Connor
Senior communications and engagement for complex organisations
Communications is often treated like a Swiss Army Knife: a collection of tools brought out when something needs fixing, explaining, promoting, or protecting.
Often you'll find a bit of pocket lint still clinging on.
But the real value is not in the tool itself. It is the hand controlling it.
Knowing when clarity is more important than volume.
When visibility is not the same as trust.
And how stories, words, and timing shape how people understand what matters.
Sometimes the story is a humanitarian crisis. Sometimes it’s Henry the Warrior Kitten, recovering from a leg amputation in my desk drawer while generating six weeks of media coverage, school visits, and $15,000 for animal welfare.
The tools matter.
Judgement matters more.
Different worlds. Same Principles.
Communication stopped being just about broadcasting messages a long time ago. It is about understanding people and recognising which stories, words, and moments stay with them long after the conversation ends.
From corporations to causes, and occasionally three-legged kittens, my perspective has been shaped across humanitarian response, media, live events, executive communication, and high-pressure public environments.
Communication is part of your core organisation.
Effective communication builds trust, alignment, and momentum. If that matters to your work, let’s talk.
I bring strategic judgement, a strong understanding of audiences, journalistic instinct, thoughtful storytelling, and just enough edge to know when something isn’t working.
