WEN SA mid-career event

Join WEN SA for an engaging discussion designed for those at the mid-point of their careers, with a focus on career progression, transitions across sectors, and balancing professional growth with evolving priorities. At a time when the economics profession is experiencing increased movement across sectors, alongside broader changes such as organisational restructuring and evolving career pathways, this is a timely opportunity to reflect on what mid-career progression can look like. Panellists will share insights from their own career journeys, followed by an opportunity for discussion, audience questions, and networking with others across the economics community.

While the discussion focuses on mid-career experiences, we also encourage students and early-career economists to attend to gain insight into different roles and hear firsthand perspectives from panellists.

This event will be held in a hybrid format, with the option to attend in person or online. In-person attendees will also have the opportunity to engage directly with the panellists, network before and after the session, and continue conversations over drinks and light refreshments.

WEN events are open to everyone with an interest in economics, regardless of gender or career stage.

Event Details

Date: 22 July 2026

Time: 5:30pm  until 7:30pm (ACST)

Location: Ground Floor, BDO Centre, 30 Pirie Street, Adelaide

Note: This event will be offered both in person and online. Access details for online attendees will be provided prior to the event.

Registration

Members: Free

Non-members: $10

Meet our panel:

Laura Bills is the Director of Policy, Provision and Planning at the Office for Early Childhood Development within the South Australian government. Laura started her career as a Graduate at Deloitte Access Economics, after completing a Bachelor of Economics (Advanced) from the University of Adelaide. Her early career was spent providing economic and policy advice, evaluation and modelling for clients nationally across early childhood education and care, schooling, infrastructure and tourism. Joining the new Office for Early Childhood Development in 2024, her team leads modelling and infrastructure planning to implement the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care, including the roll-out of 3-year-old preschool.

Dr. Ayasha Akter is an Applied Economist currently working as a Senior Research Analyst in the Office of South Australian Productivity Commission under Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Government of South Australia. She received her PhD in Economics from the University of Adelaide in 2022. Prior to joining the South Australian Productivity Commission, she was a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Adelaide, South Australia.

Lisa Carlin is a Director in the Economics team at BDO in Adelaide, with over 18 years’ experience providing economic advice to government and industry, all with the same firm. She has led a wide range of complex economic studies and evaluations for government, industry bodies and regional clients, delivering robust analysis to inform policy, investment and strategic decisions. Lisa is known for her practical, client-focused approach and her ability to translate complex economic issues into clear, decision-ready insights. She is also a committed mentor and leader, actively supporting the development of emerging economists.

This is a great opportunity to connect with peers and hear practical perspectives on navigating career pathways in economics.

We hope you can join us.