Claire Bateman
MBA.Human Resources Management
Having lived in regional Western Australia for nearly two decades, Claire is deeply passionate about supporting rural and remote communities across WA and understands the unique challenges of living and working hundreds of kilometres away from a capital city. Her firsthand experience in regional WA drives her commitment to helping communities and businesses thrive.
She is a creative, strategic, and future-focused leader and skilled mentor, well-known for helping regional clients realign their business goals and pivot effectively when they feel ‘stuck.’ With a strong background in human resources and organisational strategy, Claire is unafraid to have challenging conversations and make tough calls, yet she is also deeply compassionate and an advocate at heart.
Her dynamic, adaptable work style enables her to scale her approach to each client and project, aligning with their unique context and aspirations.An experienced strategist and project manager, Claire has worked across local government, tourism, SMEs, not-for-profits, mining, engineering, fashion, and youth sectors, in both operational and leadership roles.
Prior to co-founding Wander, Claire spent nine years as CEO of a group of companies in Kalgoorlie, including a consulting firm where, as Principal, she provided HR management, organisational development, strategic planning, event management, small business support, marketing strategy, and graphic design services to clients across the Goldfields-Esperance region.
Jade Malanczak
BA. Indigenous Knowledge, History & Heritage
Currently based in Albany within WA’s Great Southern region, Jade brings a versatile skill set across project management, stakeholder relations, and regional development. With considerable experience in both government and community-focused roles, Jade has developed a deep skill set in stakeholder and community engagement. She has a strong history of acting as a conduit for partnerships, fostering collaboration, and championing connections to create sustainable solutions that drive growth and opportunity in Western Australia.
Motivated by leveraging the strengths and abilities of others, Jade works to create symbiotic outcomes that build capacity and generate new opportunities. As a First Nations ally and advocate for inclusive communities, she’s adept at navigating complex situations, including negotiation, facilitation, and advocacy. In previous roles, Jade has provided mentorship and support to micro-businesses, SMEs, and regional organisations, focusing on human resources, economic development, and community empowerment.
Jade embraces positive change while keeping a clear focus on what’s achievable, ensuring client and stakeholder expectations are managed effectively. Her ability to view issues from multiple perspectives enables her to develop thoughtful, results-oriented strategies with measurable impact.
With over a decade of experience working with the government in both direct employment and consulting roles, Jade has supported communities across WA’s Eastern and Northern Goldfields as well as the Great Southern, bringing valuable insights and expertise to each project. Her commitment to practical, impactful solutions continues to make a difference across regional and remote WA, empowering organisations and communities to thrive.