We recently had the opportunity to interview Sarah Macrae, Founder and Managing Director of 24/7 Care Disability Service. With expertise in business management and organizational leadership, Sarah prioritizes excellence in person-centered disability services throughout New South Wales with her organization. By delivering accessible and tailored disability services, the organization has bagged several recognitions and awards for its exceptional work. In this insightful session, Sarah shares the genesis of 24/7 Care, the challenges in this field, the role of technology, and how she plans to set a strong legacy for her organization.
Spark Behind The Journey
We started the interview by asking, “Can you walk us through your professional journey and how it led to where you are today?”
Sarah Macrae shared, “My professional journey began in the disability services sector, where I found my passion for helping others and building inclusive communities. Over the years, I’ve gained experience across various roles, from office management to founding my organization. Each step taught me valuable lessons about leadership, resilience, and the power of collaboration. The drive to create a space where individuals feel supported, valued, and empowered has been the foundation of my career and led to the formation of 24/7 Care Disability Services.”
Navigating Through Challenging Phases
We were interested to learn how Sarah Macrae overcame the inevitable challenges of her career path. So, we asked, “Reflecting on your career, what have been some of the most significant challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them?”
Sarah Macrae responded, “One of the biggest challenges has been navigating the complexities of the disability sector, including regulatory changes, workforce management, and ensuring high-quality care for participants. Another challenge has been building a cohesive and motivated team while managing rapid growth. I’ve overcome these by focusing on clear communication, continuous learning, and surrounding myself with a dedicated team who share my vision. Collaboration with stakeholders and adapting quickly to change has also been instrumental.”
Balancing Visions And Requirements
We further asked, “How do you balance long-term vision with short-term operational needs?”
“Balancing long-term vision with day-to-day operations requires a clear strategic plan and prioritizing flexibility. I set clear milestones aligned with our vision while ensuring immediate goals are achievable. Regular team check-ins, performance tracking, and staying adaptable help manage short-term needs without losing sight of long-term aspirations.” Sarah added.
Current Offerings At 24/7 Care Disability Service
Eager to learn more about the offerings and new additions at Sarah’s business, we asked, “Tell us more about your services and if you are planning to add something new in the future.”
Sarah Macrae replied, “Our services include a mix of individual and group support, community engagement programs, capacity-building activities, and tailored care plans. Looking ahead, we plan to introduce services focusing on inclusive family day care for children with complex needs, as well as expanding market-based activities to provide entrepreneurial and creative opportunities for participants.”
Assessing Market Trends
We asked, “What methods do you use to analyze market trends, and how have these influenced your business decisions?”
“We use a combination of data analysis, participant feedback, and industry reports to identify emerging trends. Additionally, staying engaged with sector forums and professional networks allows us to anticipate changes and adjust our offerings. For example, the growing demand for tailored, community-focused programs influenced our decision to expand group and capacity-building services.” Sarah mentioned.
Impact Of Digital Transformation
Fast-paced digital evolution has been redefining the way businesses perform. So, we asked, “How has digital transformation affected your business model?”
“Digital transformation has streamlined our operations, from participant management to compliance tracking. Tools like cloud-based systems have improved efficiency, while digital marketing has helped us reach a broader audience. It’s also enhanced communication with participants and their families, ensuring transparency and accessibility.” She added.
Trends Shaping The Future
AI has been transforming industries. So, we asked, “What emerging technologies do you believe will have the most significant impact on your industry in the next five years?”
Sarah Macrae responded, “Technologies like AI-powered care management systems, virtual reality for therapy, and wearable health monitoring devices will likely revolutionize the industry. These innovations can enhance personalized care, provide real-time insights into participant health, and create more immersive, engaging therapeutic experiences.”
Fostering Employee Satisfaction
To succeed in the long run, ensuring employee satisfaction is crucial. To understand how Sarah does the same, we asked, “What strategies do you implement to maintain high levels of employee engagement and satisfaction?”
Sarah Macrae replied, “We prioritize creating a positive workplace culture by offering professional development opportunities, recognizing achievements, and fostering open communication. Regular team-building activities, feedback sessions, and wellness programs ensure employees feel valued and supported.”
Building A Lasting Legacy
We ended the session by asking, “How do you want your business to be remembered, and what steps are you taking to secure that legacy?”
“I want 24/7 Care Disability Services to be remembered as a leader in creating inclusive, empowering spaces for individuals of all abilities. To secure this legacy, we focus on building strong relationships, delivering exceptional care, and innovating to meet the evolving needs of our participants. Our goal is to leave a lasting positive impact on the lives we touch and the communities we serve.” Sarah concluded.
Follow Sarah Macrae on LinkedIn.
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