Kate is one of the Directors at SHIFT Advisory.

Who or what did you want to be when you grew up?

David Attenborough

What is your professional background?

Big law, big tobacco, big corporates, small bank, SHIFT.

When do you feel the most creative or inspired?

Choosing outfits inside my head.

When are you happiest?

In the backcountry.

What’s the best stress relief advice you’ve ever been given?

Breathe in through the nose (4 counts), hold (7 counts), out slowly through the mouth (8 counts).  It tranquillises the nervous system. The 4/7/8 thing is important.  Also, meditation.

What is your most treasured possession?

Strangely I don’t think I have one in particular?

What is the most important thing life has taught you thus far? 

 1. Whatever you put out into the universe the universe will reflect back at you.

2. Almost all bad behaviour stems from insecurity.

What is your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in your industry?

Don’t try and be like the others. 

What is your big project or goal for 2018?  

 Happy, engaged, thriving SHIFT lawyers.  

Who or what is inspiring you at the moment?

My friend Penelope.  She’s run her own business for a long time, making wine, and she puts my stuff in perspective. Last month her entire B&B was flooded with poo in a plumbing incident. She remains positive always.

What do you continually ask yourself?

What’s for dinner.

Who do you collaborate with best?

My business partner Prue. We are the same but different.  And Double Denim! Sometimes you just know.

Who has challenged you to be better than you once were?

My husband Dave. He’s very calm/wise. And my children, who have really narrowed my opportunities for self-involvement.

How does courage manifest in your work? 

Doing things differently in an industry where you’re indoctrinated to the belief that there’s only one way.

When has mentorship played a role in your life? 

 Bizarrely, I haven’t really had mentors. I’d love to be one though.