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Hayley Winchcombe
September 2025
The views and experiences shared in this interview are those of the speaker and do not necessarily reflect the official views of Women in Commerce and Politics (WCP).
“Living in different countries has made me really value seeing different leadership styles.”
Hayley Winchcombe
Q1
You work at the intersection of economics, public policy, and strategy - what does a typical day look like for you at Mandala, and what kind of problems do you find yourself most excited to solve?
A typical day at Mandala can be very varied. This is because we work across a range of different industries - from tech, to sustainability, to finance. I’ve had the opportunity to work on some of our most novel research in social policy, particularly on social security levels in Australia.
I’ve also worked for some of the largest and most innovative companies in the world like Microsoft and Block. This work is motivating as its often at the cutting edge of new developments or policy questions - such as around AI or data centres.
At Mandala, we undertake economic, policy and strategy consulting. This means my days are spent researching and analysing data to inform decisions or public debate. My favourite part of the job is the variety and impact of the work we do.
As an Engagement Manager 20% of my time is spent planning, talking to clients and deep thinking about a problem; about 50% is spent on shaping and undertaking the research, and presenting that research; and 30% on collaborating with other team members to problem solve and mentoring new analysts.
Q2
You’ve worn so many hats across government, consulting, and not-for-profits. Looking back, is there a moment or project that felt especially meaningful or rewarding?
For me, one of the highlights of my life was being CEO and then Chair of the ASEAN-Australia Strategic Youth Partnership. I co-founded AASYP alongside many dear friends from Australia and Southeast Asia. Over many years we hustled to bring to life a new organisation that ran international conferences, published books, ran hackathons and challenges and ultimately built a community passionate about connecting emerging talent in Aus and Southeast Asia.
The moment when I was at our third ASEAN-Australia Young Leaders Forum in Kuala Lumpur and saw how brilliant the new executive was - I knew AASYP was in safe hands and would live on.
The network of AASYP volunteers and alumni remains my closest circle of friends. The alum are all doing incredibly different and inspiring things now.
I highly recommend to anyone studying to take the opportunity to get involved in youth orgs or university groups or found your own org or business.
It's incredibly rewarding to build something that you've thought of into reality. It's probably why entrepreneurship will always have a huge draw to me - there's nothing more challenging but exciting.
From founding AASYP to stepping into board roles and leading at Mandala - it’s clear you’ve built a powerful trajectory. What habits, mindsets, or skills do you think really helped you stand out or stay grounded?
Q3
A few habits that I feel strongly about:
Saying yes as much as possible.
Doing things that fill my soul (choir, singing lessons, learning languages, playing soccer).
Working with good people who support my passions.
Paying it forward.
Learning how to tackle the things that hold me back (deleting the Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or YouTube apps on my phone).
When I feel stressed - going for a walk or jog to think it through or calling a friend for advice.
For young people - especially women - who are curious about policy, international relations, or impact-driven work, what’s something you wish someone told you earlier?
Q4
Intern as early as you can in your studies. Google relentlessly, ask uni clubs, ask your lecturers, ask your seniors. Nothing beats hands on experience.
My first internship was with Save the Children in my third year. Then, I was able to undertake a whopping four internships through my time on the New Colombo Plan in Singapore and Indonesia. I learnt so much through each - interning in the embassy, with a think tank, a business chamber and an NGO. It really allowed me to see different career paths and to build up a lot of fundamental skills they don't teach you at uni.
Now I'm in the workforce - I realise that internships (outside of international relations) can actually be paid! Mandala (alongside many other companies) offers well paid internships - but of course; these are highly competitive. To really stand out - keep your grades up, get your friends to review your CV and cover letter, don't overuse AI (your writing flair will be much better), and have different experiences (a uni club, part time job, volunteering or sports).
PS - apply for the New Colombo Plan! It's a sure fire way to get the opportunity to gain valuable experiences and professional opportunities across the Indo-Pacific. Talk to your uni's NCP alumni representatives if you aren't convinced, they will undoubtedly convince you.
You’ve lived, studied, and worked across Southeast Asia, France, Spain, and Australia. How have these cross-cultural experiences shaped not just how you work, but how you see leadership and collaboration?
Q5
Living in a lot of different countries has made me really value seeing different leadership styles. In Australia as a culture, we value by default a particular style of leadership - but when you look around the world, this is not the only model. I remember hearing Adalina Kamal, Former executive director of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA Centre), speak passionately about saving lives from earthquakes or working in peace remediation. In Australia, I had never heard a voice as powerful and inspiring as Adelina's. Nowadays I look around and see thoughtful, nuanced and powerful voices inspiring millions. My favourites are Sri Mulyani - Minister of Finance in Indonesia or Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. In the policy world - measured ideas, delivered with conviction and executed effectively; are what makes the world a lot better place for so many of us.