Startmate Collective

Spotlight on women in leadership: Hannah Iwanov, GM of People @ Akaysha Energy

In our Spotlight series, we’re introducing you to our first ever cohort of Startmate Collective - Leaders.

By
Phoebe Pincus
Phoebe Pincus
August 28, 2025

In our Spotlight series, we’re introducing you to our first ever cohort of Ladymates Leaders.

 

We reckon they are just about the most incredible bunch ever to come through a Startmate program: they are smart, pioneering, natural leaders who have already achieved enormous amounts and will go on to change the face of this ecosystem. 

 

Meet Hannah!

Tell us a little bit about your career so far

I am a builder of systems, processes, businesses and culture. I love being a part of high growth/ high impact businesses and working with super smart and inspirational people. 

Prior to my current role I spent 6 years as the Chief People Officer at Ento.com, a SaaS HR platform, before a successful exit in 2022.

What's your role now?

Currently, I'm leading the People Team for Akaysha Energy, a renewable energy business going through a massive growth phase. We're on a mission to accelerate the energy transition in a bid to combat climate change - a cause close to my heart. 

Why did you apply to join LL?

I wanted to find my people! I applied hoping to meet smart, ambitious women who were looking to learn and grow and support one another.

What's been the best part so far?

Ladymates has reminded and reinforced for me the value in creating time to pause and actively think and reflect before choosing a course of action. This is a lesson I'm working to integrate more and more into my everyday decision making. 

What are you reading/watching/listening to at the moment?

 I'm on my second re-watch of BoJack Horseman

Favourite quote?

“I like persons better than principles, and I like persons with no principles better than anything else in the world.” Oscar Wilde - the wordplay just tickles me!

____________________________________________________________________________________

Ladymates leadership is ANZ's first highly vetted, mentor-driven community for women leaders in tech. You’ll get exec coaching, peer-to-peer mentorship, exclusive workshops and a powerful women-led community.

We can’t wait to help you on this stage of your journey 💟

>> start your application for our upcoming intake HERE.

Itching for more? Read more here.

Phoebe Pincus
COO @ Startmate
Meet the author

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