Thursday 8 October 2026, Sydney, Australia. Manning & Co. Founder and CEO, Gemma Manning, was recently recognised for her efforts in building Manning & Co., a strategic marketing consultancy and global brand that has stood the test of time, at the 2026 national AusMumpreneur Awards in Sydney last month.
The Awards, which receive more than 2,000 nominations nationally, recognised Manning’s 18-year journey building an award-winning strategic marketing and communications consultancy with a global footprint.
In 2008, after her employer denied her return to her corporate role following maternity leave, Manning faced a pivotal crossroads – one that many women encounter. Rather than accept the limits placed on her as a new mother, she turned the corporate setback into fuel for innovation and leadership, establishing Manning & Co. as a driving force in strategic marketing and communications for B2B technology businesses across Australia, the Asia-Pacific region, and globally.
Manning’s story and the latest recognition come at a time when more than half a million Australian women state that running a small business is their main job, representing around 35% of small-business owners.
For Manning, the recognition of Global Brand of the Year is deeply personal, not only as a mother of two daughters, but as a tireless advocate for women in traditionally male-dominated industries, where they can lead on their own terms, break barriers, and redefine success.
“When I was told I couldn’t return to my corporate role after becoming a mother, it was devastating. But that moment sparked my determination, and I have never looked back. Founding Manning & Co. enabled me to create the kind of business we need more of – one driven by a growth mindset, opportunity, inclusion, kindness, and nurture, and an unwavering belief that motherhood should empower, not hinder, a woman’s career,” said Ms. Manning.
Manning said she hopes her global business journey encourages the next generation of women, particularly those entering male-dominated sectors, to dream big, break barriers, and redefine what success looks like.
“Recognition as Global Brand of the Year is incredibly special because it shines a spotlight not just on longevity and business success, but on the fierce resilience, trailblazing determination, and powerful sense of community that mothers bring to leadership and entrepreneurship every day,” said Ms. Manning.
“Many people told me that I couldn’t grow a business internationally because I was a mother. Luckily, I didn’t listen to them. I did grow a business and recently celebrated 10+ years of doing business in Asia. This coincided with the industry recognition of building a global business; a nomination that is not only rewarding but a reminder that anything is possible,” she concluded.
In summary:
- Turning a setback into success: Gemma Manning’s story is a testament to what women can achieve when they take charge of their own narrative – transforming a career setback into global entrepreneurial success.
- Building an international business: Over 18 years, Manning has grown Manning & Co. into an established strategic marketing and communications consultancy across Australia, the Asia-Pacific, and beyond.
- Global growth while raising a family: As a mother of two daughters, Manning has built a business and international career while raising her family, challenging the idea that women must choose between motherhood and ambition.
- Inspiring the next generation: Manning is passionate about showing young women that leadership and innovation are possible even when the journey takes unexpected turns.
For further information or media enquiries, please contact Abby Walker at abby@manningandcogroup.com.
