Adapting to a new role

Rockingham Golf Club general manager Debbie Dowsett explained to HAYLEY GODDARD the new skills she required to make the business successful, after accepting her promotion from accounts manager earlier this year.

Q: What does leadership mean to you?

A: Leadership for me is a challenge because I am always striving to do the best that I can.

Q: How has your leadership style changed over time?

A: As I have gained more knowledge and understanding of my role as a leader, I have come to understand the importance of employees as a team and what concerns the entire club. It has been an enjoyable challenge to promote the club and a bubbly atmosphere.

Q: Which business leader do you most admire?

A: Richard Branson, because he started from nothing and has become known internationally. I admire how he doesn’t just take, but he gives back.

Q: What do you wish someone had told you when you first started out?

A: Life is very challenging and you only have one chance so aim high.

Q: What is the biggest business challenge you have faced?

A: Having a family and wanting the best for them.

Q: What’s the most important moment in your career so far?

A: After being the accounts manager for six years, it was a highlight to be promoted to general manager at Rockingham Golf Club.

Q: What’s the best advice you were given?

A: If you fail to prepare, you are preparing to fail.

Q: What are your interests outside of business?

A: Looking after my first grandchild, April Anne.

Q: What do you hope Rockingham will be like in five years’ time?

A: I hope it has more activities for children aged 12 to 18 years old, such as social clubs and organised sports.

Q: What would you do to improve Rockingham or WA?

A: It would be good to save some of the land not ruin it with housing.