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Introducing Kristin Westlake
Freelance Writer and PR Consultant
Kristin with Bob Hawke at the Australian launch of Masdar.
FF: Hi Kristin, welcome.
How did you find out about the Freelance Factory and what do you think of the concept?
Great concept! I was introduced by a fellow freelancer and hope to see some good results soon as I've only been a member for a month.
How did you start out as a freelancer?
In my early 20s, after completing my PR degree, I was lucky to break into the publishing industry as a book publicist with a boutique publishing house. They were only able to offer me three days a week, so I filled the other two freelancing as a writer and PR consultant.
FF: How long have you been freelancing and why do you freelance?
Since 2001. Freelancing gives me the flexibility to work around my family and pick and choose fantastic projects.
FF: What do you specialise in?
Public relations and writing. I have a Masters degree and a decade's experience in PR, and have written a book ("Confessions of the Winemaker") with another on the way.
I spent five years in-house in a big financial services firm, and the specialist knowledge that gave me stood me in excellent stead - financial services writing really is a niche.
FF: How does freelancing affect your lifestyle?
Like any job it involves some burning of the midnight oil, but unlike a 'normal' job there's the luxury of days off when the mood or necessity strikes.
FF: What have been your career highlights?
Last year I ran the launch, publicity and business/government/academic outreach program for Masdar. Masdar is the Abu Dhabi government's $15 billion cleantech investment vehicle and also involves the World's first zero-carbon city which is under construction in Abu Dhabi right now. The sheer scale and ambition of that project, and working across continents with the amazing people involved, made it a standout.
FF: What other interests do you have?
My two-year-old son is my most passionate interest, of course! Apart from him, I love motorcycles - we have three between my partner and I, and we ride as often as we can. We also like to get out into the awesome Aussie bush 4WDing and camping.
FF: Do you teach you skills to others?
I'm teaching my son to read and write!
FF: How do you usually source freelance work?
I've been lucky so far in that work tends to come to me. However I do make sure I keep up my networking, which is vital.
FF: Thanks for your time Kristin - we're looking forward to working for you
Kristin is based in Church Point - but is available Australia-wide.
Contact Kristin by email. Click here.
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