Meet the team: Isabel Parnell, Heritage Consultant
May 22, 2025
News & Insights
Why did you choose your particular career?
I’ve always been fascinated by the stories hidden in landscapes and artefacts — how they connect us to the past and help shape our future. Becoming a heritage consultant was a natural path for me, blending my love of archaeology with a commitment to preserving cultural heritage in real-world projects.
Isabel Parnell
What has your career journey at Niche been like?
My career at Niche as a heritage consultant has taken me across states and into some of the most remote and culturally rich parts of Australia. I’ve had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects, each offering a unique set of challenges and insights. Whether I’m in the field alone or working closely with Traditional Owners and stakeholders, every project deepens my appreciation for the complexity and importance of cultural heritage. Niche has continually supported me to grow professionally, take on new responsibilities, and contribute to meaningful outcomes in heritage management.
What has been your biggest highlight at Niche?
One of the most rewarding highlights of my time at Niche has been working as a Heritage Advisor in Victoria. I’ve really enjoyed learning the Victorian heritage legislation and contributing to projects that are both culturally and archaeologically significant. It’s been a great experience working alongside the Victorian team and engaging with the local community—there’s a strong sense of collaboration and purpose that makes the work incredibly meaningful.
What do you love most about working at Niche?
What I value most about working at Niche is the people and the collaborative culture. Being part of a multidisciplinary team has been incredibly beneficial. Working alongside ecologists and other specialists has broadened my perspective and enriched my approach as a heritage consultant. This collaboration not only supports my professional growth but also leads to more holistic and informed project outcomes for our clients. There’s a strong sense of mutual respect and shared purpose, which makes for a really supportive and rewarding work environment.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do with your time?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors—particularly rock climbing and hiking. I love exploring new places, challenging myself physically, and being out in nature. It’s a great way to unwind and stay connected to the landscapes I often work in professionally.
How does Niche help you structure work around your life?
Niche offers genuinely flexible working arrangements, which has made a big difference to how I manage my time. I have the ability to work from home, while travelling, or adjust my hours to suit what works best for me. That level of trust and flexibility allows me to balance work and life in a way that feels sustainable and supportive.
How does being part of the Niche community make you feel?
Being part of the Niche community makes me feel genuinely connected and supported. I really enjoy spending time in the Bulli office and seeing familiar faces—it’s a welcoming environment where people are always willing to have a chat or lend a hand. Even with the flexibility to work from home, I often choose to come in simply because I enjoy the sense of community and the people I work with. I’m constantly inspired by the passion and knowledge of my colleagues—some of my favourite moments have been crowding around to see incredible fieldwork photos shared by the ecology team.
