With a background in PR and Marketing, Jemma Mrdak has built Dak & Co into a company that goes beyond marketing, aiming to support business growth and foster thriving communities. Her success, highlighted by Dak & Co being named an ACT finalist in the 2024 Telstra Best of Business Awards, is a testament to her team’s dedication and her commitment to making a positive impact on the businesses and communities she serves.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how did you get started?

I launched Dak & Co eight years ago after noticing a significant gap in the market for social media and marketing support for small to medium-sized businesses in Canberra.

My journey began after graduating from the University of Canberra, where I studied PR and Marketing. My first job was in a communications role for a local hotel, which was eager to innovate its marketing strategy and I was responsible for launching the hotel on social media (a relatively new concept for brands at that time).

During this time, I also developed my own social media presence, including an old-school blog. This not only allowed me to express my creativity but also helped me establish a name for myself in the industry.

It was this combination of experiences that then inspired me to start Dak & Co. Fast-forward to today, and we are proud to service clients up and down the east coast of Australia. Our mission extends beyond social media and marketing; we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of others, facilitating the growth of fellow businesses, and contributing to the development of thriving communities.

What moment in your career are you most proud of, and why does it stand out to you?

The moment that stands out most to me is when Dak & Co was named an ACT Finalist in the 2024 Telstra Best of Business Awards in the Building Communities category. That recognition was incredibly special, as it validated the dedication we’ve poured into supporting businesses and fostering community growth, being acknowledged on such a prestigious platform. Moments like those remind me of why I started Dak & Co and also serve as a testament to my amazing team and their relentless hard work.

What are your favourite things about living and working in the Canberra region?

I absolutely love the ease of living and working in Canberra. The community here is so supportive, and the connections you can make are really special. Canberrans have such a strong love for supporting local businesses, which is something I’ve always appreciated and found inspiring as a business owner.

How significant is the support of family and friends in helping you throughout your career and life?

The support of my family and friends has been absolutely essential. Over the last eight years, building Dak & Co has been a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs, and having that support system has kept me grounded. Their encouragement has been a driving force, especially during the most difficult times.

“Specifically, my husband Alex has been pivotal not only in helping me grow the business but also in supporting my personal growth. His belief in me, along with his encouragement, has helped me overcome challenges, stay focused, and push forward even when things felt overwhelming. He’s been my biggest champion and an integral part of Dak & Co’s journey.

I also have to mention my incredible team members. There’s absolutely no way Dak & Co would be where it is today without their dedication, hard work, and passion for what we do. They are the heartbeat of the business, and I’m constantly grateful for their commitment to our shared vision. Together, we’ve built something truly special.

What are your top tips for creating a healthy work-life balance?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of delegation. You don’t have to do everything yourself, and when you empower your team to take ownership, it not only lightens your load but also helps them grow.

I also believe that creating a healthy work-life balance is all about being intentional with your time and setting clear boundaries. I find it helpful to design what I call my “perfect week.” It’s about identifying how I want my week to look – balancing meetings, deep work, and personal time – and then scheduling things in a way that aligns with that ideal. It’s not always achievable, but it gives me a framework to aim for. Ultimately, balance looks different for everyone, so it’s about figuring out what works best for you and your lifestyle, and then actively making it a priority.

Dak & Co

Unit 8/285 Canberra Ave, Fyshwick ACT 2609

• T: 0411 021 646
• E: [email protected]
• W: dakandco.com