Ann Sherry AO to Chair the Super Members Council

3 June 2024

The Super Members Council (SMC) is delighted to announce it has appointed leading Australian businesswoman Ann Sherry AO as its inaugural Chair – signalling super’s strategic importance to millions of Australians and to the nation’s economy.

Across her impressive career, Ms Sherry has served as CEO, Chair and Director of leading businesses and organisations in banking, infrastructure, tourism, sport, the arts, and the public sector.  

“Ann will bring depth, judgement and perspective to the role. Having a Chair of her stature and experience to help guide a strong Board at this crucial time is very welcome” said SMC’s Interim Chair Nicola Roxon.  

“Ann will be a tremendous asset to SMC as it builds on its purpose of member-centred advocacy that works across the full breadth of the Parliament to deliver the best possible retirement opportunities for the millions of Australians who rely on us.”  

Ms Sherry has been at the heart of decision making in Australia’s largest companies and has blazed a trail for female leaders in corporate Australia. As the head of the Office for the Status of Women, Ms Sherry’s achievements include developing a national policy on superannuation for women and at Westpac, she led the implementation of paid maternity leave.

“Australia’s super system is the envy of the world, and we are now beginning to see it bear fruit as more Australians retire with more super giving them financial flexibility and economic security,’’ Ms Sherry said.

“It’s a privilege to be given this opportunity to help ensure the super system reflects Australia’s modern society and economy – and that it is strengthened to meet the needs of more Australians.”

A former Chair and CEO of Carnival Australia, Ms Sherry is currently Chair of UNICEF Australia, Enero Group and the Port of Townsville – and Chancellor of Queensland University of Technology. She is also a serving Director of National Australia Bank, Infrastructure Victoria and the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.

She was previously a Director of ING Group and ING Australia, Rugby Australia and the Australian Sports Commission.

Ms Sherry will commence in the role on 1 July and Ms Roxon will continue to serve on the SMC Board as a nominee of HESTA.  

“With Misha Schubert now settled as our inaugural CEO, this will ensure a smooth transition at the governance level – and support SMC’s mission to fearlessly protect and promote the interests of millions of Australians through deliberate and thoughtful leadership in superannuation policy,” Ms Roxon added.