Dannielle Michaels

current role:

Co-founder and Co-CEO, b.box for kids

A little about me: 

Together with Monique Filer, my co-founder, I am responsible for the strategic vision and growth plans for the company. I am also responsible for branding and design, marketing and business development strategy in Australia and around the world.   My background in strategic communications, PR and advertising, as well as being a mum to three girls, gives me an innate sense of how to communicate to our target market.  

Describe your typical workday:

I meet with different teams across our business to act as a sounding board and input to current projects, set the direction for next initiatives and ensure all teams are working collaboratively to deliver on our overall strategic imperatives.

What do you wish you'd known in year 12 or early on in your career:

To not pigeon hole yourself. Keep your mind open to new opportunities and possibilities. And that you decide your path. So be true to yourself and back yourself.

What are your thoughts on failure:

Failure is healthy. It means you've put yourself out there and tried something different or challenging. As long as you fail forward, i.e. learn from your experience, it will lead you to something great.

What motivates you?

Seeing kids using our products. I love to problem-solve, whether it be conceptualising a new product, coming up with a fresh marketing or business development idea or identifying and capitalising on new opportunities.

How do you 'pay it forward' in your career:

I participate in a number of mentoring platforms, including Mentor Walks, which enables me to share my career and business experiences with other women from different industries, roles and stages of their journey.

What is your definition of professional success:

Seeing our team and company achieve their full potential. Working together, inspiring each other and creating products and a brand that represents quality, integrity, innovation, and fun. Loving what you do shows in how you do it and the end result.

What is your dream job:

The one I have.

What do you do for self-care:

Pilates

What are the 3 words your colleagues would use to describe you:

Loyal, Passionate, Creative