Harrolds MD Mary Poulakis has announced her candidacy for Melbourne City Council.
The respected businesswoman has been a part of the fabric of Melbourne's business community for 25 years and has been instrumental in establishing Harrolds as a global destination for luxury fashion.
Alongside her position at Harrolds, Poulakis has held high profile roles dedicated to the City of Melbourne including President of the Collins Street Precinct Group (CSPG), Deputy Chair of the Melbourne Retail Hospitality Advisory Board and Board Member of the Australian Retailers Association.
Committed to reinstating Melbourne’s status as a vital part of Australia's economy and the world’s most liveable city, Poulakis aims to bring people back to the CBD through a 'Brand Melbourne' strategy.
"I know the heartbeat of the City of Melbourne and, right now, it needs focus and vision to breathe life back into its multicultural precincts and buildings," she said.
"I am not politically aligned; my agenda is to inject energy into the city and to support and promote the people that choose to do business in this municipality.
"I know the challenge of building a brand and rebuilding a business, of sustaining a successful business while managing a family, supporting a community and establishing a network of creators and collaborators.
"I’ll bring this understanding to my role to ensure everyone who works, visits or plays in Melbourne has a world-class experience," she said.
City of Melbourne retiring Chair Small Business Retail & Hospitality Portfolio Susan Riley endorsed Poulakis for the role.
"Mary has the ability to not only create a new vision for our city but to bring all of our business people and patrons, along for the journey.
"She’s got the energy, expertise and passion for our city and what is needed in our recovery," she said.
Poulakis aims to bring Melbourne back to life through influencing conversation, balancing economic growth with civic responsibility and 'getting the job done'.
She has registered her candidacy alongside running partner Fiona Sweetman.
Poulakis is seeking election for Councillor, chairing the Small Business Retail & Hospitality Portfolio.