Denise Buckby, DTM

Toastmasters offices held and terms of service (international and regional level):

• 2021-2022 Club Growth Director
• 2022-2023 Program Quality Director
• 2023-2024 District Director
• 2024-2025 Immediate Past District Director

Toastmasters honors and recognition (international level):

• 2017-2018 DTM
• 2022-2023 District Program Quality Award
• 2023-2024 Distinguished District
• 2023-2024 President's Extension Award
• 2023-2024 President's Extension Award

Relevant work experience and how it relates to Toastmasters and your role as a Board Member:

During my career, I have been a SchoolTeacher , Senior Management Sales Director, Community Interviewer, Managment Rights Business Owner, Property and Building Manager, Board Member and Board Chair of Incorporated Associations and Not for Profit Companies. All of these endeavours have contributed to my skill set that are valuable assets to any Board especially Toastmasters International - a committed, trusted leader, excellent communicator, encourage stakeholder engagment and collaboration, strategic decision maker, team player, stronge advocate and ambassador, value- based reputation, align with the mission and visison of the organization.

What experience do you have in strategic planning?

My valuable experience in strategic planning has developed my critical and analytical thinking to assess data, trends and complex situations to make informed decisions in a timely but considered manner. I understand how a strategic plan must begin with a clear understanding of the organization's vision, mission and values that underpin every decision made by a Board, Through my Board career, I have gained experience in adapting to change and unaccepted challenges by suggesting practical. innovative solutions to stay on track to drive sustainable goals.

What experience do you have in the area of finance?

My finance experience includes sound financial literacy and understanding key ratios. evaluating budgets aligning to strategic goals, identifying & monitoring risks and minimizing their impact on the organization, reviewing audit reports and ensuring solvency. I recognize my fiduciary duties and have had experience contributing as a member of the finance, risk and audit sub committee. I conduct my own business that involves operating a trust account and complying with regulatory authorities.

What experience do you have in developing policies?

In my curremt property and building managemnt business, my work focuses on creating clear, compliant and practical policies that build transparency, trust and accountability with all stakeholders. I have extensive experience over 25 years in developing and updating bylaws, organizational and administrative procedures that align with current legislation and best practice standards. I have mastered the skill of converting complex regulations into policies using clear, practical language to ensure adoption and compliance from the stakeholders.

What lessons did you learn from previous leadership positions?

Displaying Integrity - ensuring honest, open, transparent communication and actions.
Showing Respect to all members and make sure they know they are valued
Recognition of members by praising, encouraging, showing appreciation by thanking them often,
Connect/ collaborate with your members and empathize / listen with them.
Remain Resilient and Committed to the Vision.
Serve your members by leading by example and developing a trusting environment,
Promote a healthy work/life balance.

What experience and key strengths would you bring to the Board of Directors?

My experience, achievements and commitment to Toastmasters is well demonstrated through my deeds, actions and words,
The key strengths I bring to the Board are being able to see the "Big Picture" and align goals and plans for long term sustainability, strong morals and ethics, experience in goverance capabiities, financial literacy and a team player and collaborator. Most imporantly , I am a great advocate for sharing and promoting Toastmasters,

Why do you want to serve as an International Officer/Director?

I am excited to nominate for the position of International Director for the 2026- 2028 term. It's been a privledge to serve alongside so many passionate and purpose-driven Toastmasters. Since 2017, I've gained a deep appreciation for the impact of our collective work transforming lives of our members. I envision many opportunities and ideas that I can contribute strategically on a global level and create a lasting legacy for others developing self condidence and finding their voice.

What volunteer experience do you have outside of Toastmasters?

Charter Member of Rotary New Farm 2013 - current
Treasurer of New Farm & Districts Historical Society - current
Life Member of Pine Hills Netball Club
Downey Park Netball Association - 10 years service as an accrediated coach, umpire ad administrator.
Clean Up Australia Site Facilitator - current

Have you worked with other Boards of Directors outside of Toastmasters? If so, describe your experience.

Arafmi Pty Ltd
Strata Management
Rotary International D9600 - 12 years service
New Farm District Historical Society - 17 years service
Each experience has been positive and provided life- long learning , increased my skill set and knowledge, widened my networking, fulfillment being part of a team and contributing to reach our strategic goals.

In your opinion, what are Toastmasters International’s major objectives and how would you work to achieve them?

Toastmasters International empowers indiviuals to gain confidence to overcome fear by finding their voice to express their thoughts clearly.. This may lead to becoming leaders in their family, community or industry. As an ambassador for Toastmasters International, I would be a passionate, committed adovocate for Toastmasters by blending my Toastmaster knowledge of programs with strategy , emotion and heart. As an advocate, I would be persausive with story telling , compellinig messages , listening and empathising with emotion whilst being authentic and humble. I would have well scriptive responses to counteract common objections or excuses. My reputation, enthusiasm and passion are my best tools to aupport the achievement of Toastmaster goals.

Additional information about candidate:

I am a member of a large, supportive family .In my spare time, I enjoy mastering all sorts of puzzles, jigsaws and crosswords. Playing board games is one of my favourite pastimes . I appreciate live theatre and musicals.