Rebecca Paterson
Executive Assistant to Deputy Secretary Biosecurity, Operations and Compliance Group
Rebecca Paterson is an experienced Executive Assistant currently supporting Justine Saunders APM, Deputy Secretary, at the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. In this role, she provides strategic executive support within a complex and fast-paced environment, helping to ensure the effective delivery of departmental priorities through strong coordination, sound judgement, and trusted stakeholder relationships.
With more than seven years’ experience supporting senior executives across the Australian Public Service, Rebecca has built a career founded on professionalism, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence. Her experience spans high-level executive coordination, governance, stakeholder engagement, and the management of complex and competing priorities. She is recognised for her ability to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities for improvement, and deliver seamless support that enables executives to focus on strategic outcomes.
Rebecca thrives in dynamic environments and is known for her calm, solutions-focused approach. She takes pride in building strong relationships across organisations, fostering collaboration, and bringing people together to achieve shared objectives. Her ability to navigate sensitive matters with discretion and integrity has earned the trust of executives, colleagues, and stakeholders alike.
Rebecca believes Executive Assistants play a critical role in the success of organisations, acting as trusted advisors, connectors, and facilitators who help drive efficiency, alignment, and informed decision-making. She is passionate about championing the profession and supporting the broader Executive Assistant community by sharing knowledge, encouraging professional growth, and demonstrating the value strategic executive support brings to organisational performance.
