Her Story

Sarah Mandelson was raised and schooled in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, and pursued a science degree at Newcastle and Macquarie Universities.

Exposed to the flavours of other cultures from early in life, Sarah developed a passion for food which eventually saw her take over her mother’s small ice cream business with her partner, Richard Single, in 1989. The first few years were a steep learning curve. Working long hours in the small Paddington factory, Sarah came to grips with diverse disciplines from personnel management to accounting, stock control to marketing, as well as myriad other challenges facing any small businessperson. The business grew and required new premises, and in 1996 moved to purpose-built premises in Marrickville. Sarah quickly developed a focus on using natural ingredients and creating new product ranges. Relationships with key Sydney providores and chefs contributed to her success, helping to innovate and promote the reputation of her business.

In 1991, Sarah entered her products in the inaugural ice cream competition run by the Sydney Royal Agricultural Society, and won her first round of medals. The accolades have continued to roll in year after year since then, with now over 500 medals and 20 trophies for Champion Product and Most Successful Exhibitor.

Sarah now judges at dairy competitions around Australia, and continues to lead her industry sector in environmental sustainability. She is active in the business and local communities, speaking regularly on business sustainability and her passion for food. Under her leadership the business has also won a number of awards recognising its environmental commitments.

Serendipity’s products are now widely available around mainland Australia.

A mother of two, Sarah is now in her forties. Serendipity, which means a happy discovery by accident, remains one of Sarah’s key philosophies on business and life.

Strategies for Success

1. Seek out good advice and take it – you can’t be an expert on everything.
2. Take a few well calculated risks from time to time (and learn as much as you can from your mistakes).
3. Good people and a well-organised team are the lifeblood of your business – look after them (and get rid of dead wood).
4. Take the road less travelled at least some of the time – innovate, do new things, stay fresh.
5. Try to maintain a sense of humour – it will help you keep a sense of perspective when you need it most.