Join us for the next Advisor Connect Meeting!
This is an opportunity for advisors and other professionals across multiple disciplines to learn from each other, understand each other’s expertise and build a network that is required as trusted advisors to the unique Family Business sector.
Your local Advisor Facilitator will be your main point of contact.
Note: This event is for Advisors only. In person registration closes at 2pm on 7 October 2025.
This month's topic: AI and Leadership Navigate the Risks. Reap the Rewards.
In this educational session specifically designed for Advisors to business owners, founders and senior leaders, we’ll explore the profound impact of artificial intelligence on family business. In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, AI is permeating every corner of our lives, offering both incredible opportunities and significant risks.
As AI tools rapidly find their way into the hands of staff and clients, maintaining control over service delivery and leadership is paramount. Trust, reputation and client loyalty are at stake, making it critical for brands to embrace AI with a strategic and human-centred approach.
This keynote will deliver the following to attendees:
• Understanding of the profound impact of AI on business operations.
• Unpacking the risks and opportunities of AI adoption across the whole-of-business.
• Practical insights into AI models being utilised successfully in a number of industries.
• A model and 7-step playbook for AI implementation.
About our speaker: Melissa Donnelly, Sense Maker | Strategic Counsel | Board Chair, Affinity Communications
Melissa has built a reputation as a strategic communicator and governance advisor, working closely with multiple generations in family businesses across the tech, agribusiness, logistics, transport, resources and professional services sectors. Early in her career, Melissa shaped global brands including MTV, ESPN and Bloomberg.
In her governance capacity, Melissa has been at the forefront of thinking about AI best practice and adoption. She has delivered her CreateThinkAI™ framework for creative, intentional and responsible use of AI at conferences, webinars, panels and in media interviews.
Melissa is Chair of Brand Gold Coast, former Chair of the Domestic Violence Prevention Centre, and has advised boards across Australia, the UAE and Asia on strategic planning, succession, organisational realignment and transitions through acquisition or merger. She is a sought-after speaker, industry contributor, and vocal advocate for women navigating leadership, visibility and impact.
We look forward to seeing you there.
This is a hybrid event and you may attend in person or online. If attending online, you will receive instructions upon registering.
Thank you to our Event Host
To help with breakfast catering, please register in advance. Sparke Helmore Lawyers are generously hosting this event, and accurate numbers will ensure we can look after everyone on the day.
Please contact Michaela Edwards at medwards@familybusiness.org.au or 0488 827 398 if you have any questions or need assistance registering for this event.
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