Sally Bagshaw
Head of Content Design at Canva
With a background in business communication, a flair for working with complex stakeholders, and the passion to create better experiences for users, Sally has been committed to improving digital products with content since 2001. She has worked extensively across a wide variety of industries including some of the big names in government, retail, superannuation, higher education, banking, and publishing. Now, as the Head of Content Design at Canva, she’s on a mission to bring clarity and joy to over 265M people who use Canva every month. Sally is based in Brisbane and if you listen carefully you can her her pug Henri snoring at her feet.
Career & Background
What inspired you to do what you are doing now?
I’ve always loved making complex things simple, and content is a way to do that.
Could you tell us a bit about your professional background and where you are headed in your career right now?
I’ve always been a word nerd, and got into technology early in my career as a Communications Officer looking after State Government websites. When my family was young, I started working for myself and launched a copywriting business which soon evolved into user experience content strategy (think information architecture, user journeys, content management). I did this for over 10 years but missed leading teams. So, when the opportunity at Canva came around I jumped at the chance!
Your favourite food for thought
Books
- The making of a manager by Julie Zhou
Podcasts / Thought Leaders
- Lenny’s podcast – for product + design + AI
What drives and inspires you
What are your core values?
- Creativity
- Growth
- Leadership
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
This is a tricky question as I don’t tend to idolize people. I do however love people’s stories and really am interested in different experiences.
You as a Mentor
Why have you decided to become a mentor?
I’ve seen a lot in my career – highs and lows – and I’d like to offer that perspective to someone starting out or finds themselves leading a team for the first time. I also work in a really fast-paced, dynamic and modern environment that’s tackling some really interesting things. I’m happy to share how I’m navigating that.
What are the top 5 skills or qualities you bring to mentoring?
- Asks powerful questions
- Direct and honest
- Great listener
Ready to be a part of Assisterhood as a Mentee?
We are now up and running in QLD, VIC & NSW – and we’re only just getting started! Let’s shoot for the stars – together!