A Leadership Journey Begins
In 2017, as a training emergency medicine doctor, Dr. Annemarie Newth quickly realised that leadership was expected of her—but never formally taught. “There’s an expectation that because you’re a doctor, you’re a leader, and that is actually very incorrect,” Annemarie noted. Seeking to bridge this gap, she turned to Women & Leadership Australia (WLA), an experience she describes as “fundamental and transformational.”
She first discovered WLA through information in the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine Journal and approached her Director for support, he encouraged her to apply for a scholarship. “They [my employer] funded the rest of the course, and it was a key moment—having a Director believe in me, support me to do it and to start me down the path,” she said.
“This [initial] WLA program was fundamental in understanding what type of leader I am and providing other leadership tips and tricks.”
This learning experience not only shaped her leadership identity but also built lasting professional relationships, including a close friendship with a fellow participant.
From Learning to Leading
From Learning to LeadingAs Annemarie’s career progressed, she returned to WLA for further development in 2022. The Executive Ready Program was a natural fit, equipping her with the skills necessary to excel and land the role of Chief Medical Officer, Executive Director Medical Services, and Senior Medical Officer – Emergency Medicine at Echuca Regional Hospital.
“All of those components, [the leadership skills learned in these programs], have brought me to where I am—even my current role. Having Women & Leadership Australia courses on my resume was huge in getting this job. And for my boss, the CEO, knowing how much value I’ve placed on leadership development for myself and others, this was key in my appointment to the role.”
The Executive Ready Program also created a pathway into further study. Annemarie used her WLA experience to gain credit toward an MBA, which she is currently completing. “I never would have done that if I hadn’t done the WLA program and received the retrospective credit,” she said.
Now, as an Executive in the C-Suite overseeing more than 100 doctors and numerous direct reports, Annemarie is embarking on her third WLA program—the Advanced Leadership Program—to deepen her expertise even further.
Leadership Growth & Key Takeaways
“I’m in a really great place and a lot of that was because I took that first step with Women and Leadership Australia.” – Annemarie.
Annemarie’s experience with Women & Leadership Australia’s leadership development programs has given her clarity on leadership styles, confidence in male-dominated spaces, stronger emotional intelligence, practical strategies, a powerful network, and meaningful career progression.
Navigating Challenges in the Healthcare Industry
In the demanding healthcare industry, Annemarie has found Women & Leadership Australia’s teachings invaluable in helping her navigate its unique pressures and challenges. The skills she’s gained—especially around emotional intelligence, listening, and curiosity—have been crucial to her success.
Annemarie stresses that leadership in healthcare requires more than just knowing your own style. It’s about understanding people—meeting them where they are and listening to their needs and perspectives. “It’s the art of listening,” she said. “That’s actually the most important skill you can have. That and being curious.” She points out that without curiosity, a leader is likely to miss out on important insights from their team.
By embracing authenticity and injecting joy and fun into her leadership, Annemarie creates a positive and supportive work environment, even in the high-pressure healthcare setting. She believes that leaders don’t need to be serious all the time; in fact, making room for humour and showing vulnerability can strengthen team bonds
“I used to think leadership meant being the loudest voice, standing firm, and making sure your idea was the one that prevailed. But through the Women & Leadership Australia courses, I learned that it’s not about that at all. It’s about having your ideas challenged, being curious about others’ perspectives, and finding common ground."
A Multifaceted Leader
Beyond her executive career, Annemarie has pursued entrepreneurial ventures. She co-founded Spiritum Scrubs a company designing stylish and comfortable scrubs for healthcare professionals, and serves as the medical advisor for Peak Learning Adventures, leading hikes around the world.
“When you’re doing things that you love, you just have a full tank,” she explained, acknowledging the challenge of balancing multiple pursuits.
Empowering Future Leaders
Annemarie believes that a strong leader helps their team grow to the point where they no longer need to be the central figure. “The leader I want to be is somebody who builds capacity and capability in my team, so that I continue to make myself less required because that is what I think a strong leader does.”
Her story highlights how leadership is shaped by continuous growth, self-reflection, and the commitment to empowering others—core values that Annemarie has embraced throughout her journey with Women & Leadership Australia.
Annemarie continues to break barriers, inspire change, and uplift those around her. As she progresses with her leadership development, we look forward to seeing her achievements when she completes the Advanced Leadership Program in late 2025.
Annemarie is not only shaping her own future but helping to shape the leaders of tomorrow.
As she passionately shares, “I rave about Women & Leadership Australia to all women I know and all the leaders I’m developing because it’s the only course I’ve found like it.”
