Elena Gosse, Chief Executive Officer of leading water disinfection company, Australian Innovative Systems (AIS) has been announced today (2.10.14) as a winner in the 2014 Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence Awards. Elena has been recognised in theBusiness Enterprise category for her leadership in steering AIS’ strategy and direction to make it the national and international business success story it is today.
The Brisbane based, 100% owned and operated Australian business has prospered under Elena’s guidance of almost 20 years to become a multi-award winning, multi-million dollar business which is recognised as a leader in the design, production and supply of commercial and residential chlorine generators and water disinfection technology.
“To be selected as one of the 100 Women of Influence in Australia and in such illustrious company is truly humbling,” Elena said.
“I am so looking forward to meeting the other 99 winners in Sydney later this month where we will then learn who takes out top honours in the ten award categories and who the overall winner for the year will be.”
“I hope that my experience as a Russian immigrant coming to Australia, learning English, deciding to further my education, and then become CEO in an industry that was completely foreign to me can serve as an example to other women that it is possible to achieve your goals and control your own destiny – providing you never give up.”
Now in its third year, the 100 Women of Influence Awards celebrate outstanding women from a wide variety of sectors across Australia. There are ten categories: Board/Management, Public Policy, Young Leader, Social Enterprise and Not-for-profit, Philanthropy, Global Influence, Innovation, Local/Regional Community, Diversity and Business Enterprise. Entrants are recognised based on their outstanding ability to demonstrate vision, leadership, innovation and action in and beyond their fields.
Gail Kelly, Westpac Group Chief Executive Officer said, “The breadth and calibre of our 100 Women of Influence for 2014 is remarkable.
“It is such a privilege to be able to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions these women are making to Australia. The 2014 winners will join the now 300 strong, prestigious alumni of these awards.
“With over 40% of leadership roles at Westpac filled by females, I am fortunate to be surrounded by inspirational women every day. We are blessed to have such great numbers of influential women doing incredible things in many industries and organisations right across Australia.
Fairfax Media CEO Greg Hywood said: “This year’s 100 Women of Influence join a growing movement that is changing our society for the better in a myriad of ways. Thanks and congratulations to everyone for the contribution they are making.
“Many of this year’s finalists were nominated by men. It’s a powerful development to see men wholeheartedly supporting women across all the categories. In order to move the dial, more men need to step up and take an active interest, alongside women, in addressing gender equality.”
On Wednesday 22 October, a gala event will be held at Sydney’s Town Hall to celebrate the 100 Women of Influence and the significant impact that each has made within their chosen field.
For further information please visit: www.100womenofinfluence.com.au.
