Emily Turlan

Emily Turlan
She/Her
Financial Controller, Adelaide Oval

I relocated to Adelaide to study a double degree at Flinders University—completing a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) and a Bachelor of Business (Marketing).

My career began in my penultimate year through the Chartered Accountants Achiever Program, providing valuable early experience. After graduation, I joined a Big4 firm in Perth, working with ASX-listed companies, multinationals, and high-profile clients. During this time, I completed my Chartered Accountants qualification and undertook a two-year secondment in London, collaborating with major global clients.

Since 2021, I’ve led Adelaide Oval’s finance team, overseeing financial and statutory reporting for the Oval, Adelaide Oval Hotel, and other managed operations. My role spans budgeting, cost management, monthly reporting, and annual financial statements for large-scale events like AFL and cricket.

My expertise also covers risk governance, sustainable finance, insurance, and modern slavery compliance. Working in the dynamic events environment has been one of the most energising aspects of my career.

My advice: pursue roles that align with your values and interests—when you enjoy your work, each day feels rewarding, and time flies.

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This article is part of the Festival & Event Industry Career Profiles series, a collection highlighting the diverse stories of Adelaide’s finest festival professionals. 

Photography by: Jack Fenby