Rosemary Popa OAM
Current role: Senior Consultant in Management Consulting - People and Change Advisory Services
Current organsiation: KPMG
What sport did you hold a scholarship for at VIS: Rowing
Time as VIS athlete: 2018 - 2022
Tell us about your life after your time as an athlete at the VIS?
I returned to Melbourne after the Olympic Games in 2021 and navigated post-Olympic life with 4+ months of lockdowns and curfews. During this time I interned at an AI consulting firm, did some guest speaking and worked on my small business Rosemary Local.
In March of 2022 I commenced work at KPMG as a Management Consultant in People and Change Service Advisory - some of the work I have done is behavioural change management, leadership development and developing strategies for cultural and values uplift for clients mainly in the Financial, Government, Defence and Education services.
I also still do guest speaking engagements, notably for an organisation called Authentic Leaders Group (ALG). ALG's business model is to take corporate leadership groups on immersive nature experiences in some of the most beautiful parts of Australia. The goal for these immersions is to connect to Country, connect with each other and connect with self. I love sharing my stories and insight from my athletic career and come away feeling energised from seeing these groups bond as a unit. I have also learned so much about our First Nations People and the wonderfully long and rich history of Australia and Aboriginal culture, making me feel incredibly proud of representing this country.
I officially retired from elite sport in August of 2022 after taking a year off training and competing after the Tokyo Olympic Games, and now am looking at post graduate studies opportunities while I progress my professional corporate career.
What’s the one career achievement you’re most proud of?
Can't beat an Olympic Gold Medal and setting an Olympic Record in the Women's 4- rowing event at the Tokyo Olympic Games! Being able to do it with some of your best mates is the cherry on top.
What’s the most valuable lesson you learnt during your career as an athlete at the VIS?
There are some people that will be in your corner and believe in you whether you're scraping by to make a team or standing in the middle of the podium - surround yourself with these people and bring them up with you.
