Joanna Stevens

Managing Director

Prior to establishing Premier Strategy, Joanna was a journalist and a government communications advisor working in state and federal governments. With more than 20 years of hands-on experience, Joanna possesses extensive government relations, strategic communications, community engagement and issues management skills.  

Joanna is the ‘go to’ person for regional engagement. Joanna was born and raised in the Ballarat region, where her family has lived for over five generations.  She has a strong network of regional business, community and political contacts who helped foster and shape her ambition to create her own business.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Arts (Journalism)  

  • Graduate Diploma in Strategic Communications  

  • Certificate in Engagement , International Association of Public Participation Australasia (IAP2)  

  • Harvard Business School (Leading Professional Services Firm) 

Accreditation

  • Registered Government Lobbyist  

  • International Association for Public Participation Australasia (IAP2)  

  • International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) 

  • CEO Institute  

  • Founder and owner of Uncover Magazine  

  • Public Relations Institute of Australia (PRIA)  

  • St Patrick’s College Board member  

  • Gender Diversity Champion (Minerals Council – Victoria Division) 

  • Telstra Young Businesswoman of the Year finalist 

Areas of expertise

  • Issues Management 

  • Crisis Communications  

  • Leadership  

  • Government lobbying and advocacy 

  • Strategic Advice 

  • Environmental Planning Approvals