Isabel Zhang

Isabel is a Consulting Partner at SenateSHJ, leading the Research & Intelligence practice. She is one of Australia’s leading strategic research and insights specialists, with more than 23 years’ experience across the Asia-Pacific, helping governments, regulators and organisations navigate complex policy, stakeholder and business challenges through evidence-led decision-making. 

She has designed and led large-scale research, consultation and intelligence programs across sectors including trade, health, transport, financial services, insurance, superannuation, technology and education. Her work has informed government policy, regulatory reform, customer strategy, service & experience design and community engagement for organisations across federal, state and local government, as well as leading commercial brands.

Prior to joining SenateSHJ, Isabel established and led one of Australia’s first dedicated Cross-Cultural Insights practices, building a nationally recognised capability that helped organisations better understand, engage and build trust with Australia’s increasingly diverse communities. Her work has shaped policy, strengthened stakeholder relationships and ensured the voices of multicultural communities are embedded in decision-making, rather than treated as an afterthought.

Known for combining strategic thinking with methodological rigour, Isabel designs bespoke research and intelligence programs that integrate behavioural, social and commercial perspectives to uncover the insights that matter most. She is passionate about turning complexity into clarity, and evidence into practical strategies that create lasting impact.

Alongside her consulting work, Isabel is Vice President of the Australia China Business Council (Victoria) and a Board Director of the Museum of Chinese Australian History. She holds an MBA from Charles Sturt University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Communication from Upper Iowa University (USA).