Having joined the organisation in 2023 as a Project Director, Alyssa has since transitioned to spearheading the global Moderator Program, where she oversees the recruitment, training, and engagement of moderators across multiple regions. Her philosophy—”Don’t be afraid to grab a seat at the roundtable”—reflects her approach to both leadership and knowledge-sharing: showing up, listening actively, and engaging authentically.
Tell us about your role at The Ortus Club and how you got there.
I joined The Ortus Club in 2023 as a Project Director, where I managed high-level engagements and ensured the seamless execution of our events. Over time, I transitioned into a more specialised role, now leading our global Moderator Program. In this capacity, I oversee the recruitment, training, and ongoing engagement of moderators across multiple regions. This shift has allowed me to focus more deeply on what I’ve always enjoyed most – building meaningful relationships and fostering connections. Whether working with new talent or collaborating with internal teams, I find it fulfilling to support a program that directly impacts the quality and success of our discussions.
What’s one achievement you are particularly proud of?
Having guested for two years, I’ve found a sense of accomplishment in every roundtable and masterclass I’ve worked on. But one achievement I’m especially proud of is stepping up to take on more responsibility, even when it felt intimidating. Starting a department from scratch and building systems that actually make a difference has been incredibly rewarding.
If I can sneak in a second one: getting flown out to support an event in Hong Kong for the first time was a huge personal win and a clear reminder that putting myself out there pays off. It happened in August 2024, and it was not only my first business trip but also my first time in Hong Kong. The experience was exciting and a little surreal, especially stepping into a new city in a professional capacity. What made it even more memorable was the human connection: I ended up forming a great rapport with the staff at our venue, and we still keep in touch from time to time. It’s a small but meaningful testament to how our events go beyond knowledge-sharing and that they create genuine connections that last well beyond the roundtable itself.
What’s the most challenging part of your role, and how do you overcome this challenge?
One of the most challenging parts of my role is keeping track of the many events we run and ensuring that each one is matched with the right moderator – someone who not only understands the topic but also resonates with the audience and meets our quality standards. It’s a balancing act that requires both strategic thinking and constant coordination, often across time zones and shifting priorities. There’s definitely a heavy logistical component, with moving parts that don’t always cooperate. But what keeps me grounded and, honestly, what makes the challenge worth it, is the relationship-building aspect. I genuinely enjoy getting to know our moderators and helping them succeed in our format. That personal connection brings a human element to the process and reminds me that behind every calendar entry is a conversation that matters.
Which initiative are you most excited about that you have planned for your department?
Honestly, the department itself is the most exciting initiative. The fact that the Moderator Program is now being formally moved under Operations Activities marks a big step forward. It’s finally being recognised as a core part of how we deliver quality at scale. This shift opens up so much potential: from building smarter systems and improving internal workflows to driving consistency and creating a more seamless experience for both moderators and internal teams. It also signals a stronger commitment to the people behind the conversations we run. There’s a real opportunity here to professionalise the program, shape it into something sustainable and impactful, and elevate the moderator experience across the board. I’m genuinely thrilled to be leading that charge.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to any leader looking to explore knowledge-sharing events to engage with their audience?
Something my peers and mentors have reminded me of, especially during moments when I’ve hesitated to take up space, is: “Don’t be afraid to grab a seat at the roundtable.” It’s a simple phrase, but one that has stuck with me. Knowledge-sharing events have always been a rewarding experience, not just for what you contribute, but for what you gain by showing up, listening, and engaging with others. Sometimes, the most valuable insights come from moments when you’re not speaking, but absorbing perspectives that challenge your own. Being part of the conversation, even quietly at first, is often the first step toward finding your voice and realising the value you bring.
“Being part of the conversation, even quietly at first, is often the first step toward finding your voice and realising the value you bring.”
What do you think the future holds for The Ortus Club? What role will you play towards it?
In my opinion, the future of The Ortus Club lies in deepening the quality of our conversations and expanding the strength of our global community. As we grow, we’re not just scaling events; we’re shaping meaningful, lasting connections between decision-makers across industries and regions. It’s not about volume for the sake of numbers. It’s about creating experiences that resonate, conversations that matter, and communities that endure beyond a single roundtable.
In my role, I hope to keep building a world-class moderator program that reflects the care, professionalism, and thought leadership that Ortus is known for. That means not only supporting our current moderators but also identifying new talent, refining our processes, and creating the kind of structure that empowers people to thrive. I’m excited to contribute to that growth by strengthening the relationships I build and continuously improving the systems behind the scenes that help our events shine.
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