Meet Executive Assistant Lani

The Organiser Everyone Needs in Their Life!

For Collins Hume Executive Assistant Lani Winston, a typical day involves more than just making diary appointments and keeping clients compliant — it’s about bringing order, optimism and a spark to her role.

Growing up in the hills of Nimbin and later relocating to Lismore, Lani now calls Caniaba home. Her journey to Collins Hume is rich in community spirit and experience, shaped by diverse roles in local business, fuel wholesaling and retirement financial planning. These taught her everything from corporate speak to the value of perseverance and connection — all before landing at Collins Hume in 2024.

Lani joined Jamie Doyle’s team as Executive Assistant, and quickly found herself becoming a go-to organiser, compliance anchor and all-round social glue. With a Certificate III in Business Administration and an unstoppable “say yes” attitude, Lani thrives on variety bringing structure and energy to every task. Her work includes managing schedules, implementing client requests, establishing corporate structures and driving post-meeting action plans. The boys do the tax,” she laughs, “and I make sure everything else gets done.”

But it’s not just about process — it’s about people.

Lani is energised by others, often describing herself as the type of friend who organises everything — from flights to dinner bookings to dress codes and even your pantry!

That flair has proven invaluable, especially as she plays a key role supporting Collins Hume’s Strategy360 rollout and leading database clean-up projects. It’s also why she’s the unofficial social secretary, organising EOFY and Christmas events that bring the team together.

“I came from a small firm and missed the daily interaction with colleagues. When I met Naomi and Jamie, I asked about the social side of Collins Hume and soon was organising team events — now there’s always something fun in the pipeline,” she says.

When Lani’s not streamlining systems or boosting morale at work, she’s embracing every moment of life. A sunrise-lover and morning person, she balances her dedication with downtime — whether that’s picnics with friends, exploring local wineries with her partner, reading classic literature, or caring for the “big dogs” (aka: donkeys) on their property.

“I work to live, not live to work,” she says. “And I work hard so we can really enjoy life.”