Victoria Fruean
General Manager, Porter Novelli Sydney
I’m a Kiwi living in Sydney with my partner and our energetic 4-year-old son, Patrick - who keeps me just as busy as my PR career. With over 15 years in PR and Communications, I’ve worked across multinational and independent agencies, starting in consumer brands before finding my true passion in brand reputation, corporate communications and issues management. Now at Porter Novelli, I get to tackle high-stakes, meaningful work alongside brilliant clients and colleagues while continuously growing as a leader. I genuinely love what I do. Balancing career and motherhood has been my toughest challenge yet, but I hope Patrick sees a hard-working, successful mum who always found time to play. Still figuring it all out, but loving the ride!
Career & Background
Could you tell us a bit about your professional background?
I’ve worked in PR and Communications agencies in New Zealand, Australia and London for over 15 years. I started out in a consumer PR agency pitching tampons, toilet paper and deodorant – a great training ground to learn how to find angles and stories that resonate with media and audiences! Now, in my role at Porter Novelli, I spend my time helping to protect my clients’ reputations during high-stakes issues, coming up with fun consumer brand campaigns that will drive brand love for clients, supporting a team of fantastic consultants and driving new business.
At this point in my career, I am loving learning how to build a successful and effective team and business and be the best leader that I can be.
What drives and inspires you
What are your core values?
- Authenticity
- Family
- Kindness
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My mum. The hardest working woman I know who was the best at what she did in her company but never let success get in the way of being a kind human.
Your favourite food for thought
Books
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
- Pivot by Jenny Blake
- A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara (not a personal development book but an incredible book if you’re looking for escapism!)
Podcasts / Thought Leaders
- Mel Robbins – The Mel Robbins podcast (great tips on confidence and mindset)
- James Clear – Atomic Habits
- The Diary of a CEO
Ready to apply?
The best time is right now. Take a chance – you never know where an Assisterhood mentor can take you.