4 minute read
Marathon of life
Embracing the Marathon of Life
Written by Miranda Cook
BGS parent Claire Fidler is proof anything is possible through oldfashioned hard work and having the courage to give things a go even when self-doubt creeps in.
Mrs Fidler plays a huge part in the success story of a major international company — although she is far too humble to admit it — while also juggling family life and her love of fitness.
She is the Executive Director, Company Secretary and Head of Legal and Governance of the $3billion dollar ASX-listed National Storage REIT. The company has almost 700 employees and more than 230 storage facilities across Australia and New Zealand, and its shareholder registry includes large investors around the world. She is a mum-of-three and a marathon runner.
As most busy parents know, however, behind “having it all” is the reality of “doing it all”.
She acknowledges the struggles of the work-life juggle. She often is left to squeeze in exercise before 4.30am, when she takes her son Seth, who is in Year 12 and in the BGS Open First VIII Rowing team, to training.
Seth has also been involved in the Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics programs.
Mrs Fidler credits her husband for his support in helping to keep their busy household running smoothly.
“I enjoy being challenged in my career, and I also love being a mum.
“It is important to me to do both, so that my kids can see they can achieve anything they want.
“I want them to learn to take opportunities and challenges when they come up… even if you don’t think you’re quite ready, just have a go.”
Mrs Fidler has always had a go getter attitude. She gave up travel plans to work at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, while still studying at university.
After completing a Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Laws, at the Queensland University of Technology, Mrs Fidler spent time working at law firms and Rio Tinto, before being asked to join National Storage.
Within just a few years, she was appointed as an Executive Director to the Board.
“I’ve had the support of amazing people who have pushed me forward to take positions and had faith in me when I probably wouldn’t have had the confidence myself.”
National Storage has been listed on the Australian Stock Exchange for about 10 years, of which Mrs Fidler has been involved for almost eight. In that time, the company has recorded major growth.
“I enjoy being challenged in my career, and I also love being a mum.”
Helping others is the part of her job she loves the most.
“We’ve been able to help a lot of people during difficult times in their lives — usually people go to storage because there is change in their life.”
The company has a focus on sustainability and reduces its carbon footprint through the installation of solar panels and LED lighting across its centres. It also runs the National Storage Cares program, which supports the Mater Foundation, Lifeline, Rise Up, Youngcare, and other charities and community organisations.
Mrs Fidler sits on the Board of St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School, where her two daughters attend, and volunteers at BGS sporting events when time permits.
“It is important to give back, and we are very mindful of that.”
When she is not donning corporate attire or rowing supporter gear, Mrs Fidler laces up her runners to train for world marathons.
In April, she ran the London marathon after completing the New York marathon a few years ago. She has her sights set on the other four majors: Berlin, Tokyo, Chicago and Boston.
“Marathon running is something I do just for me.”
Less about record-breaking and more about participation, she said: “I enjoy the experience of attending these events around the world, doing them with friends and keeping fit.”
Proving once more that good things come to those who are brave enough to give it a go.
