Two USC graduates who applied their respective studies in property economics and psychology to their jobs at Sunshine Coast Council were winners in the recent Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network 2019 Awards.

Frances Cayley, 35, of Buddina, won Outstanding Business Woman of the Year and Jade Law, 26, of Bli Bli, won Young Business Woman of the Year.

Ms Cayley, who heads the council’s property branch and is project director of the Sunshine Coast City Hall development at Maroochydore, gained her Bachelor of Property Economics and Development and Faculty Medal from USC in 2011.

Ms Law, who graduated earlier this year with a USC Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology), is a human resources officer in the council’s recruitment division.

Dean and Head of USC Business School Professor Lorelle Frazer congratulated both women on their success in their studies and careers.

“USC strives to provide graduates with the knowledge and skills sought by employers in the ever-changing worlds of business and industry,” she said.

The two USC alumni said they were excited to win the awards while working in careers that enabled them to help the Sunshine Coast community.

Ms Cayley, who manages the team responsible for council property assets worth more than $1billion, said she was looking forward to the next stage of delivering a new City Hall for council staff and the community.

Currently on maternity leave, she said she learned prioritisation and time management skills when she studied full-time at USC while working full-time at the council.

“The content I engaged in as part of my degree allowed me to hold new positions regularly within council, growing to a senior management position where I am fortunate to be applying much of my degree on a daily basis,” said Ms Cayley, who also tutored at USC.

“The University’s property study program instantly appealed to me. I appreciated the knowledge of staff, the facilities and support available, the bursaries provided by local business and the incredible friends I made.”

Ms Law said she enjoyed working in recruitment at one the region’s largest employers.

“Our people drive our business, and it is rewarding to see the journey from someone first applying for a job through to driving great initiatives for our region,” she said.

“My USC degree has given me an invaluable understanding of people, which is critical in a human resources role. I loved the subject Leadership and Team Dynamics. It gave me an appreciation for team diversity that will stick with me forever.

“On a personal level, my degree also taught me the importance of living an active, purposeful, connected life. When I am happy, I do my best work.”

Ms Law said the Sippy Downs campus was convenient to her home and workplace, and she enjoyed sharing the experience with friends already studying at USC.

She would consider further study, focusing on the organisational psychology field.