As we wind down to celebrate the end of the financial year, it’s a good time to pause and reflect on FYQ4, and at Madden, a period defined by the power of teamwork and partnership.
Together with our valued clients and some excellent media talent – backed by a professional and dedicated team – we’ve celebrated several wins and milestones.
Here’s a look back at some highlights.
It’s been a busy quarter of strong client results
With a jam-packed schedule, London-based Insight Investment’s Head of Currency Solutions Dr. Francesca Fornasari made the long flight to Sydney. During her visit, she sat down with the Australian Financial Review on topics ranging from US fiscal policy and the impact of the November US election, to recent challenges facing the Chinese economy. A one-time forex analyst, Dr Fornasari always proves her strength as a spokesperson beyond currency thematics, and command of broader, global macroeconomic trends.
Speaking of offshore experts making an impact, Global X ETFs’ New York-based Dr Scott Helfstein was front and centre, fresh from his long-haul flight, for a well-attended media roundtable luncheon in Sydney.
Like Dr Fornasari, Scott (or Dr Helfstein) is a speaker in demand! A Senior Vice President and Head of Investment Strategy at Global X, his visit explored US monetary policy, market dynamics, the innovation economy, and thematic investments. Aside from a hectic speaking and media schedule whilst in Australia, the in-depth, face-to-face discussions with engaged media over lunch was a time-tested moment of authentic connection that continues to deliver strong earned media value and relationships in today’s digital age and 24/7 news cycle.
Podcast Parade
Looking for a fresh podcast episode for your early morning commute? Well, we’re glad you asked…
This quarter, we encouraged Todd Hoare, LGT Crestone Head of Public Markets, on to the much-loved Fear and Greed podcast, where he shared his insights on the high stakes of international expansion, highlighting how companies (like Lendlease) often face two outcomes: spectacular failure or gradual, hard-won success. Todd’s insights were enjoyed by the Fear and Greed hosts, who we are reliably assured would love to him back on the program.
We also were happy to team up again with our friends at the Ensombl Advice podcast. This time last year, our director, Bruce Madden, was eating his own media training cooking to appear on the podcast to discuss all things communication and reputation in financial advice. This time, Bruce took a back seat to a Madden client, as we listened to Alvia Asset Partners’ Josh Derrington chat about Alvia’s approach to absolute return investing and why it strikes a chord with family offices. In addition, PPS Mutual accredited adviser Stephen Price appeared to chat about his business and even a brief nod to PPS Mutual as the risk and income protection provider of choice for his clients in the medical profession. Thank you, Stephen!
Celebrating Female Finance Leaders
We were thrilled to celebrate the achievements of several clients named finalists in Financial Newswire’s Women in Wealth Awards.
Three outstanding women from the Madden client roster were recognised for their exceptional contributions to the financial services industry. Amanda MacDonald, Head of Sustainable Investment at LGT Crestone, and Jessica Leung, Portfolio Manager at Global X ETFs, earned finalist spots in the Investment Professional of the Year category. Additionally, Natalie Jollow, Head of Marketing at Global X ETFs, was a finalist for Marketing/Communications Professional of the Year. Natalie also took out the coveted Marketer of the Year at Money Management’s 36th Fund Manager of the Year Awards. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners in these industry awards.
We also call out the efforts of Madden client Novigi in announcing key female appointments to its leadership team. CEO Ash Priest commented, “We are firm in our belief that broad representation at all levels is a key driver of commercial success, and this includes building a balanced and inclusive leadership team.”
These influential female leaders are making significant contributions to the financial services industry, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.
Industry Events and Awards
Madden was delighted to again be named a finalist for PR Agency of the Year in the Financial Standard MAX Awards – an accolade we were honoured to win in 2023.
The Financial Standard team once again hosted a stunning evening of glitz and glamour with some of the best in the business, which we thoroughly enjoyed. Thank you to all who voted for us, our wonderful clients, and of course to our fantastic team for their continued hard work and dedication!
Madden also attended the Morningstar Investment Conference, to hear from some of the brightest minds and most experienced leaders in wealth and asset management. From macroeconomic outlooks and inflationary pressures to portfolio construction and industry trends like the rise of ETFs, alternatives, and of course AI, the event was insightful and a welcome learning opportunity.
People Updates
The past quarter brought forward a few milestones, both personal and professional.
First, we celebrated career growth within our team. Grace Brooker, who began her journey at Madden as an intern and then Account Coordinator, was promoted to Account Executive!
Team leads Natasha Johnston (also our New Zealand lead) and Madison Gee, both saw promotions to Account Director positions.
Additionally, we welcomed a new consultant to our team – Ounissa Quaid joins Madden as a Senior Account Manager, bringing quality agency experience across consumer, tech, and finance. Her appointment also adds Ireland to our growing league of nations diversity!
Finally, we ended the quarter on an exceptionally sweet note with news of the happy engagement of our Senior Account Executive, Sarah Lagana, to her fiancé Robbie. Kudos, Robbie, for successfully surprising our highly unflappable team member!
Congratulations to all on these wonderful milestones.