How it started and how it's going with... Alex Tilbury: International Women's Day 2025 spotlight series

Our penultimate International Women's Day story is that of Ray White's very own media maven, Alex Tilbury. With a twenty-year career as a journalist for leading media outlets as her foundation, Alex's expertise and reputation for excellence are steadfast. As head of media and external relations, Alex's eight remarkable years with us have proven her to be a master of turning uncertainty into opportunity and the strategic mind behind Ray White's media presence.

Balancing a demanding role with raising two sons while her husband works FIFO in a PNG gold mine, Alex embodies her own advice to 'be known as someone who gets stuff done.' This commitment to execution and integrity earned her both the 2019 Curiosity Award for implementing our groundbreaking express auction reporting system and the 2021 Special Achievement Award at the Chairman's Cup Awards.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, colleagues describe her as the ultimate 'work-mum' who leads by example and champions the growth of others. While her team works tirelessly to promote our successes, Alex quietly and gracefully safeguards our reputation through challenges with the same calm determination that's become her trademark.

Let's hear it, Alex.

What piece of advice would you tell your younger self or someone just starting out?

Looking back on my journey, I'd tell my younger self to embrace uncertainty rather than fear it. When you're just starting out, it's easy to believe that everyone else has it figured out. I always wanted it all, to be a mother and have a career I loved. I'd also say, don't wait for permission to begin. The perfect moment, the perfect plan - they don't exist. Start with what you have, where you are, seek our projects and don’t wait to be asked. Be known as someone who gets stuff done.

I'd also emphasise the importance of building genuine relationships. Your network isn't about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections - it's about meaningful exchanges with people who inspire you, challenge you, and support you through the inevitable ups and downs.

Most importantly, I'd tell my younger self to trust your own voice. Don't waste years trying to sound like someone else or chasing someone else's definition of success. The sooner you embrace your unique perspective and strengths, the sooner you'll find your authentic path.

Over your 8 years here, what moments or achievements have made you most proud to be part of this organisation?

I am very proud of the auction reporting system that we built and kicked off on July 1, 2018. We have seven years of auction data - that is a very rich data set. This will be my legacy gift to the group! I am also very proud of my team, Shannon Cook, Nina Clarke and Cass Glover are all very capable, efficient and hard working professionals.

Beyond these achievements, I take immense pride in how we navigated the market uncertainty during 2020-21. When many competitors pulled back, my team leaned into the digital transformation and worked harder than ever to share all the stories of COVID. Our pivot to virtual auctions not only sustained the business but opened new markets we hadn't previously reached. And my team was dialled into nearly every one - we saw all the funny sights!

Throughout these eight years, what's made me proudest is our unwavering commitment to integrity in an industry where shortcuts can be tempting. We uphold our reputation for transparency and fair dealing, it doesn’t just benefit our bottom line, it's created a culture where people genuinely love coming to work each day.

What’s the number one challenge you’ve faced, as a woman, in your exceptional career?

If I am honest, I used to hate the term ‘mumpreneuer’ when I was a business reporter. I would always prefer to be known as someone who just gets it done, regardless of gender.

This International Women's Day, what message would you like to share with other women about building a long-term career they love?

Don't underestimate the power of creating the culture you wish existed. When I found environments lacking in support or collaboration, I worked to create those elements myself – establishing a core group of mentors around me.

Remember that building a career you love is an ongoing process of alignment and realignment. What fulfils you at 25 may differ from what energises you at 35 or 45. Give yourself permission to evolve, to redefine success on your own terms, and to make choices that honour both your professional ambitions and personal priorities. You also do have to love what you do but only you can work out what that is.

In their words…

Alex has had the coolest and most amazing career to date, but still has such a humble and laid back vibe that makes everyone around her feel relaxed and comfortable. She is an absolute work-mum, so caring of her team and genuinely cares upholding the reputation of this company. She would never ask her team to do something that she wouldn't do herself; never too good for anything! We love Alex very much.

- Nina Clarke, corporate affairs executive

There are so many things Alex does behind the scenes that often go unnoticed but make a real difference. While our team is often promoting our good news, Alex also works tirelessly to ensure our group's reputation stays strong in the public eye. The way she navigates these challenges and always gets the best outcome comes down to her hard work, knowledge of the media landscape, and genuine care for the Ray White Group.

Over the years, Alex has shared a lot of valuable advice with me, but what has had the greatest impact is the way she has consistently encouraged me to grow in my role. She has not only supported me in taking on new projects but has also actively championed my development, helping me expand my skills and confidence along the way. She is always generous with her time and knowledge, and I know I can rely on her whenever I need advice or support. Her mentorship has been truly invaluable, and I can say without a doubt that I wouldn’t be where I am today without her guidance.

- Shannon Cook, senior media advisor

About the series...

In recognition of International Women's Day on Saturday 8 March, we are spotlighting women in our (corporate) business who are setting an example of determination, growth and success for all of us.

In this exclusive interview series throughout March, we will be learning directly from our female leaders about their journeys, advice and secrets for success in their careers and in real estate, as well as a behind-the-curtain take from those that know them best.