Having recently joined Flinders in the Northern Territory, Oli Dubsky talked with us about his unique career journey, from a 16 year old with a professional football contract to Marketing and Communications Officer for Rural and Remote Health in Darwin.

What is your role at Flinders?

I recently joined Flinders University as a Marketing and Communications Officer for Rural and Remote Health in the Northern Territory, as part of the College of Medicine and Public Health (CMPH). In this role, my focus is to highlight the impactful activities of Flinders staff, researchers, alumni and students across the NT.

Tell us about your journey to Flinders.

Before joining CMPH, I worked for Charles Darwin University then RMIT University, so I’m familiar with the higher education environment, its impact and challenges. I’m originally from Prague in the Czech Republic, where I did my studies, then I was lucky to come to Australia for six months at UQ, which was such an amazing experience. I studied in a very supportive environment on a breathtaking campus in Brisbane, met so many interesting people from around the world and got to explore Australia. I went back to Europe to finish my degree in International Business and Tourism and started my first job, but during my career, I’ve also gained experience in the Education, Arts, and International Business sectors, contributing to my diverse professional background.

My career journey has been shaped by my passion for marketing, international affairs and behavioural economics. I’ve always been curious and open to new challenges, believing that pushing boundaries is essential for personal and professional growth. This mindset has guided me through roles in various sectors, ultimately leading me to Flinders University and CMPH.

What’s your favourite part about your job?

It’s the opportunity to showcase and amplify the fantastic, vital activities happening in rural and remote health. Contributing to the visibility of impactful work conducted by Flinders staff, researchers, alumni and students is incredibly fulfilling.

I’m a strong believer in giving people access to education. It’s a vehicle to improve career outcomes and, more importantly, it equips you with skills that can be applied throughout your professional and personal life. It opens new horizons and connections with other people, you become more resilient and ultimately make better decisions in your life.

As a marketer, I sense the importance of my job, because I can influence peoples’ choices. I want to be 100% sure that people make better choices and the products and services I promote will have a positive impact for them. There is no better feeling than speaking to a student, graduate or alumnus and learn firsthand what have they achieved through their education journey. Attending events such as graduations or open days is always a highlight for me and it keeps me inspired and motivated on days when I question the impact of my work.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I’m yet to find out, as I’ve only recently started, and every day has been different so far. I was lucky to travel to Adelaide for strategic marketing planning recently, because meeting your colleagues in person when you start a new job is invaluable – especially my position. I’m really pleased that everyone is helpful and supportive. A positive working environment makes a big difference.

How do you like to spend your spare time?

I enjoy living a healthy and active life. I’m passionate about sports, particularly football (soccer) and ice hockey. I also find relaxation in the world of alternative music across all genres and arthouse movies. Living in Darwin with my wife Lydia and our two little daughters, Alba and Danica, brings me joy and provides wonderful balance to my professional life.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I was offered a professional football contract when I was 16. I always loved football and played competitively from a young age. It was all about doing something I was passionate about, improving my skills and having fun. It was not until later I realised that through football, I also developed sense for commitment, discipline, leadership and never-give-up attitude. Today at work, I love being part of a team where we aim for the same goals and support each other to become better at what we do.