Upon launching The Business Agency, Emma Lo Russo “was under some illusion that I would have more time”.
Considering transitioning off the corporate ladder and into your own HR consultancy?
Those who have forged long and satisfying corporate careers should consider all of the angles before taking the plunge, said Emma Lo Russo, CEO of Digivizer and director of The Business Agency, which works on people, sales and strategy solutions.
Lo Russo, whose diverse career includes a stint with Macquarie Bank and three years as COO and President of an international software company, said she thought that by stepping away from her “intense” corporate role, she’d have more flexibility.
“I was under some illusion that I would have more time. But when it is truly a start-up with just three or four of you working together, you’re so hands on,” she said.
“I’ve had such rich experiences in managing and leading a global company, where my direct reports were the country CEO’s, so it was a completely different level of accountability. It’s very different when you go back to doing it all yourself!”
For those who are contemplating launching their own business – and also those who are happily working within corporate Australia, but who seek greater challenges – Lo Russo said it’s important to work out specifically where your passion lies.
“When I decided to strike out on my own, I realised I kept seeing this persistent thing in my working life: I am happiest when I’m driving enormous change,” she said.
“Through my work with The Business Agency, I help organisations to drive change through supporting their leaders, whether it’s straight-up coaching of senior leaders, or helping those leaders through a facilitated program of support as they lead change. Seeing such wonderful outcomes for our clients is incredible rewarding.”
