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Besa Deda

Former Chief Economist

Besa Deda

Besa Deda

Former Chief Economist

Westpac Group

Besa is a highly experienced Chief Economist with a proven track record in financial markets and leadership.

Currently, she is consulting and advising businesses, leveraging her extensive experience to guide economic strategy and analysis.

Previously, Besa was with the Westpac Group for 15 years where she held the position of Chief Economist across several large businesses and was a key spokesperson for the organisation.

Her career also includes significant positions at St.George Bank, Commonwealth Bank, and Colonial Group.

At St.George Bank, she made history as the first female Chief Economist of an Australian bank and was also the youngest to hold the role at that time.

In addition to her consulting work, Besa regularly appears in the media and is recognised for her ability to make economics engaging and relatable.

She is the current Chair of the Australian Business Economists, an organisation dedicated to fostering debate on key economic and policy issues. Besa also serves as a member of the ANU's Centre for Applied Macroeconomic Analysis Reserve Bank Shadow Board.

Passionate about leading with empathy and inclusion, Besa is committed to helping businesses navigate economic challenges and communicate complex economic concepts in a way that is accessible and meaningful

SESSIONS

Day 2

11:20

Keynote: Moving the Dial to Count Her In

  • From awareness to action: Practical steps for leaders to support and invest in women’s economic development

  • National Gender Equity Strategy: How can organisations translate these strategies into actionable plans and practices?

  • The importance of an intersectional lens and diverse perspectives in decision-making processes, procedures, and policies on equal pay


Besa Deda, Former Chief Economist at Westpac Group

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