Michelle Laforest

Chairs in Sydney

90 seconds interview

Biography

Michelle has extensive senior executive and board experience spanning a range of diverse industries including publishing, software, professional services, media and entertainment, health and not for profit organizations.

Recent roles have included Regional Vice President at Harlequin Enterprises where she led the growth strategy for the Japanese business and Managing Director at Wolters Kluwer where she led the organizational, cultural, and digital transformation of the tax and accounting content business.

Having worked extensively throughout Asia Pacific she knows the region and enjoys working in the areas of strategic thinking, purposeful leadership, organizational transformation, talent management and branding.

Currently CEO at Coeliac Australia, Michelle is passionate about implementing strategy and leading teams to scale up their businesses.

Michelle has a Bachelor of Business degree, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has completed the Harvard Business School’s Presidents program.

Career highlight

“Implementing the digital transformation strategy and pivoting the business at Harlequin to double profits and achieve the Australian Book Industry Award for best fiction book – equivalent to an “Oscar” in the publishing industry.

Being a finalist in the Telstra Business Women’s Awards.”

Why Coraggio?

“I was a Coraggio member for a number of years and found the supportive environment and business expertise within the group was invaluable in assisting me to make courageous business decisions. I look to replicating this vibrant and challenging environment in my Coraggio Boards.”