While The CEO Magazine has long recognized the many achievements of female leaders across the globe, this year we took it a step further, celebrating their achievements with our inaugural Women of Influence Spotlight.
From an incredible pool of self-nominations, narrowing it down to this group of women was no easy task. Each of the hundreds of stories we received reflected courage, purpose and the determination to create a better, richer and more inclusive world.
With McKinsey’s ‘Women in the Workplace’ report highlighting the somber fact that true gender parity remains decades away, these female leaders offer hope and proof that progress is accelerating.
It is our honor to shine the light on these women, whose stories of innovation, impact and inclusion showcase the immense potential of diverse leadership. Without further ado, let’s hear it from the changemakers, leading us all toward a more inclusive and equitable future.
Melanie Perkins, Co-Founder & CEO, Canva
“As a leader, I feel my job is to set the vision and the goals for the company, and then to work with everyone to empower them to dream big and crazy. I want to set them up to do the best work of their lives and to achieve those crazy, big goals.”
Suzie Shaw, CEO, We Are Social
“I am a firm believer in lifting others as I climb. Through SWIMM Australia (Senior Women in Media and Marketing), I’ve been able to create a vibrant network for female leaders to connect, share experiences and break down barriers to progress. It is my aim to create environments where diverse voices are not just heard but celebrated, ensuring the next generation of talent has the tools and confidence to shape the future of the industry.”
Pamela Jabbour, Founder & CEO, Total Image Group
“As a mentor and advocate for women in business, I’ve made it my mission to support the growth and development of others, particularly in the areas of sustainability and business leadership. By creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, I’m paving the way for the next generation of leaders, ensuring they feel empowered to thrive.”
Lorna Jane Clarkson, Founder & CCO, Lorna Jane
“Empowerment starts with how we show up for ourselves and each other every day. I believe that true empowerment is about uplifting women and encouraging each other to become the best versions of ourselves.
“At Lorna Jane, we are not just designing activewear – we are creating a movement that inspires women to challenge their limits, believe in themselves and live each day with confidence. The true essence of breaking through barriers lies in knowing and believing that we are deserving of a place beyond them.”
Christine Khor, Founder & CEO, Peeplcoach
“As a first generation Chinese Australian woman who grew up in Australia in the 1970s, I was definitely a minority. And throughout my life and career, I have had to rely on myself to fight for what I want. However, I was very blessed to find great coaches, mentors, managers and friends along the way who encouraged and supported me.
This is really what drives me today to create more sustainable, equitable and successful careers, teams and businesses for all Australians – but especially women and different cultural backgrounds.”
Louise Baxter, CEO & Executive Director, Starlight Children’s Foundation
“When I originally joined Starlight, we were creating 120,000 positive experiences each year for seriously ill and hospitalized children. By the end of this year, we will have created over two million positive Starlight experiences. From a single Starlight Wish granted in our very first year, Starlight is now Australia’s broadest reaching children’s charity and an integral part of the Australian healthcare system.”
River Nygryn, CISO & COO, BullionFX & HammondCare
“I have been a mentor my entire life and love breaking down barriers to entry because I have done it myself. And I’m a firm believer in meritocracy and, therefore, advocate for all – not just one gender or social class.”
Phoebe Pershouse, Head of Communications and Community, Infragreen
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had inspiring leaders – both men and women – throughout my career. I’m committed to paying that forward. It’s vital that we continue to show up, listen, learn and set an example for the leaders of tomorrow.”
Colleen Callander, Founder, Mentor Me Women
“Female mentorship is a powerful tool for building confidence, breaking barriers and creating opportunities. When women lift each other up, we ignite a ripple effect of empowerment and growth. Mentorship isn’t just about guidance – it’s about connection, sharing wisdom and inspiring the next generation to lead with courage, passion and purpose.”
Kathryn Illy, CMO, Destination New South Wales
“Seeing the success of those I’ve mentored is incredibly rewarding. Whether they’re launching new brands, leading successful campaigns or climbing the corporate ladder, knowing that I played a part in their growth is a powerful reminder of why leadership and mentorship matter.”
Gina Rinehart, Executive Chairman, Hancock Prospecting
“Believing my contribution is good for our company, state and nation helps keep me motivated. The major and mega mines our company has invested in and been driven to create will bring much-needed revenue, opportunities and jobs to the north and to debt-ridden Australia.
“I have built Australia’s most successful private company ever, so I believe my contribution has, if considered fairly, been of value, and I’d like to continue to contribute.”
Marcella Romero, Founder & Group CEO, Arriba Group
“I am a huge advocate for diversity and inclusion and our business make up is a testament to that, with 74.2 percent female, 11 percent identifying as LGBTI+, 10 percent with disabilities, 32 percent culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and 3.4 percent from First Nation communities. My executive team boasts over 50 percent female representation.”
Kristine MacFarlane, Founder & Chief Creative Officer, The Essential Candle Company
“My legacy isn’t just the candles we make; it’s the people we uplift and the connections we build. And I’m committed to mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs, sharing the lessons I’ve learned about balancing ambition with authenticity.”
Sheena Jack, CEO, HCF
“As a woman who has risen in challenging environments, I’m committed to opening doors for others and fostering a culture where diverse perspectives thrive. This ethos shapes not just my leadership, but HCF’s approach to delivering accessible and meaningful healthcare solutions for Australians.”
Deborah Thomas, CEO, Camp Quality
“Mentorship is a cornerstone of my leadership. I’ve prioritized supporting emerging leaders, helping them build confidence and step into their potential. The culture and foundations we’ve built together position Camp Quality for continued success, ensuring extraordinary outcomes for the children and families who need us most.”
Judy Sahay, Founder & Managing Director, Crowd Media Group
“My vision includes fostering a generation of leaders who prioritize impact over profit, collaboration over competition and long-term benefits over short-term gains. My focus remains on creating a world where digital marketing is a force for good, driving progress and creating a better tomorrow for all.”
Michelle McQuaid, Founder & CEO, Michelle McQuaid
“What excites me most is helping women break free from society’s expectations that we should be ‘good girls’ who perform perfectly, please everyone and protect others. And instead making sure more women have the skills and opportunities to thrive as their unique selves.”
Angela Gambell, Director, Stockwells
“My leadership is fueled by a growing legacy and love of the family business and a commitment to understanding the unique challenges of each industry we serve. Empowering staff with training and continued development is something I am always hyper focused on, and customer service is at the foundation of everything I do.”
Jane Lu, Founder & CEO, Showpo
“Empowering women means recognizing the unique strengths we bring to leadership – empathy, resilience and big-picture thinking. It’s not about competition but creating spaces where everyone thrives. When we lift each other up, we drive innovation, make better decisions and build lasting success. Investing in women is how we change the world.”
Danielle Snell, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Elit Lawyers by McGirr & Snell
“My journey is imbued with resilience and a commitment to challenging traditional structures and gender stereotypes in the legal industry. I co-founded Elit Lawyers while seven months pregnant with my second child, with a passion and determination to overcome biases in law, particularly against women.”
Sharon Melamed, Founder & Managing Director, Matchboard
“One of the things I stress is that a great business isn’t just about making money, it’s also about making social impact. Over the last six years, I’ve led a charity partnership program at Matchboard, enabling us to donate thousands of dollars every year to so many worthwhile causes.”
Michelle Brewin, Managing Director, Valvoline Global Australia & Pacific division
“As a leader, a large part of my role is to coach and mentor others. There is no greater achievement than to see my people get promoted and have successful careers. I have experienced how a mentor can impact your confidence and empower you to achieve your goals, and I want to pay it forward.”
Rose Herceg, President, WPP Australia & New Zealand
“As a multicultural child who speaks more than one language, I continue to be a big advocate for diversity of culture at WPP. We have 108 nationalities here. And we also have a 50/50 leadership team of women and men. That makes me very proud.”
Deanna Depetro, Owner & Creative Director, Mossman
“I want to inspire the next generation to push boundaries, embrace challenges, take risks and carve their own unique paths in the fashion industry. My legacy is rooted in the belief that success is not just what you achieve but the doors you open for others.”
Ronni Kahn, Founder & Visionary-in-Residence, OzHarvest
“We all have a role to play that is bigger than looking after ourselves. The ripple effect of goodness and kindness that we can put out to the world is where you will find the biggest personal gains.”
Sylvia Arotin, Founder & CEO, Guide & Grow
“By advocating for systemic change, including integrating emotional intelligence and positive discipline into government training programs, I’m committed to reshaping early childhood education. This vision extends globally, as we collaborate with industry experts to connect and uplift families and educators worldwide.”
Helen McCabe, Founder & Managing Director, Future Women
“My media background has afforded me an incredible opportunity to be of impact. I am driven by the pure enjoyment of doing good work whether that be an award-winning podcast or helping a woman find a job. I enjoy hiring and fostering the next generation of great female leaders – and I really love a challenge.”
Claire Mula, Founder & Coach, Scaling Up Coaches
“You can’t be what you can’t see – that’s true for entrepreneurs. Founding teams today are (spoiler alert) majority male, with even fewer solo entrepreneurs being women. Although, they are not the only group underrepresented. I can empathize with all founders and, potentially, encourage and support more female founders and CEOs to improve their confidence and scale up stage leadership capabilities.”
Jennifer Kirkaldy, General Manager Policy & Advocacy, The Salvation Army
“My leadership is driven by the knowledge that change is possible and that a leader’s role is not to be the most brilliant person in the room but to create an environment where others can show their brilliance.”
Jan O’Keefe, Chief Commercial Officer, HBF
“I believe inclusive leadership, where teams can bring their unique experiences to the table, creates more valuable outcomes for the patients and customers that we serve. Making space for patient-centered healthcare and creating more consumer-focused health solutions is what gets me out of bed in the morning.”
Jessica Di Sante, HR Director, Europcar
“For me, HR with heart means understanding individuals’ needs and aspirations, building trust, and nurturing meaningful relationships across the organization. I am passionate about mentoring, career development and creating pathways for employees to grow – paying forward the support and opportunities I have been fortunate to receive.”
Mary Georgievski, General Manager, Fujifilm Australia
“At the end of the day, we have a strong product line-up that we’re proud of, but what’s front of mind for me is making sure that the 58 families in my division are able to put food on the table. Results are great, but being a people leader, you really need to care about the people you lead.”
Zoey Saunders, General Manager of Marketing & Food Service, Saputo
“As a single mother of two daughters, I’m committed to fostering inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I actively create spaces that promote flexibility and equality, empowering my team to balance their professional and personal lives. This dedication to building diverse, high-performing teams is central to my leadership style.”
Alex King, Senior Human Resources Manager, Fujifilm Australia
“I discovered early on that employees need a voice to advocate for them, so I went into HR to become that voice and champion diversity, change and culture. My core belief in leadership is that everyone should be their best self at work, where a workplace fosters a culture and supports individuality for both professional and company growth.”
Nicole Reid, Chief People Officer, Xero
“I’m committed to championing diverse talent in our pipeline and ensuring that everyone feels they can have a seat at the table. This is personally important to me, as the mother of a daughter, to help pave the way for the next generation.”
Germaine Chua, Group CEO, Real Pet Food Company
“Growing up in a multicultural environment, I’ve always believed that no one should be held back due to their gender, background or any other difference. I’ve implemented strategies that promote equal employment opportunities, gender equity and career development, ensuring all employees can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives.”
Linda Mellors, Managing Director & CEO, Regis Aged Care
“At Regis, we have a fantastic and diverse workforce caring for our wonderful residents and clients. I take great joy in seeing individuals from various backgrounds progress through our company, supported by robust development programs, and I’m dedicated to continuing this legacy by implementing new initiatives and fostering an inclusive environment where every team member can thrive and advance.”
Beverley McGarvey, President Network 10 and Head of Streaming, Paramount ANZ
“My leadership style focuses on working with and empowering passionate and skilled teams and valuing the commercial benefits of diversity, equity and inclusion. I am proud that Paramount has been recognized as an inclusive employer for the past two years.”
Caterina Nesci, Director of Brand & Marketing, Salter Brothers
“I am at a point in my career where I now need to inspire other young women to strive for their dreams. That is now my objective – plant the seeds for future women to build their careers and share my knowledge as much as possible.”
Laura Cowell, CEO, Tender Loving Care Disability Services Australia
“Through my leadership, I’m committed to shaping an industry that celebrates diversity, encourages collaboration and fosters systemic change, ensuring that every individual can thrive in a truly inclusive world.”
Sally Kissane, CEO, Ogilvy Network ANZ
“I have always said yes. Yes to the most challenging roles. Yes to the toughest briefs. And yes to the toughest clients. And I believe that has been a critical contributor to future success. Every time I said yes, I learned and I grew. I believe that you get what you give.”
Laura Sedgwick, Founder & Managing Director, Sedgwick Communications
“I am passionate about providing a working environment that supports those with families. And it’s one of the main reasons I established Sedgwick Communications – to tackle the industry standard and provide an alternative working environment, with a true commitment to flexibility, no set working hours, a focus on deliverables rather than hours and a genuine commitment to a work–life balance.”
Liz Ferentinos, Co-Founder & CEO, Meizon Innovation
“Leadership in this field is more than just innovation, it’s about redefining hope for millions. I’m committed to fostering collaboration, advancing transformative therapies and leaving a lasting legacy in global health.”
Emma Lewisham, Co-Founder and CEO, Emma Lewisham
“As women, there will be countless times across our careers when we’ll find ourselves in uncomfortable or challenging situations, most of which stem from our femaleness within male-dominated industries or cultures. However, as empowered, confident women, we have not only the strength to navigate these situations but the courage to lean into them and, in turn, find growth.”
Clare Pickens, CEO, Leo Burnett Australia
“Mentorship has always been a cornerstone of my career. Whether through formal mentorship programs like Assisterhood or informal guidance, I’ve consistently sought to elevate others, particularly women in the creative industries. I believe that leadership is not just about personal success – it’s about raising others and paving the way for future leaders.”
Michelle Gannon, Co-Founder, Gannon Fabrication
“I’m driven to develop initiatives that champion inclusivity and challenge traditional employment norms, ensuring that everyone has a chance to contribute and succeed. By leading with empathy and innovation, my hope is that my work not only impacts the business today but also sets the stage for a more equitable and sustainable tomorrow.”
Alison Sarich, Managing Director, Complii FinTech Solutions
“I’m a ‘yes’ person, always ready to help with any requests or requirements, whether personal or professional. In return, I expect the same attitude, which creates a positive dynamic where no-one feels unheard. This approach has fostered a strong culture and excellent staff retention within the firm, ensuring a happy and productive workplace.”
Nicky Sparshott, Global Chief of Transformation, Unilever
“The best way to pave the way for the next generation is to be generous with your time and knowledge. Role modeling is so critical – you cannot be what you cannot see. But equally, learning from them is just as critical. We do not have all the answers just because we have more experience.”
Elise Searson Prakaash, Founder, Lady News
“The conversations I’m having with women on a daily basis validate why I’m in this space. Media is no longer a place where misogyny is accepted quietly, nor is politics. I’m confident the future is authentic and deeply rooted in connection to community. I’m shaping this future as a leader of radical change in how we connect and communicate.”
Diana Horvatovic, CEO, St Basil’s Aged Care
“I believe that with motivation, dedication and hard work, anything is possible. This belief is something I strive to instill not only in my team but also in my daughters, inspiring the next generation of women in leadership.”
Tanya Sale, Founder & CEO, outsource Financial
“I believe in the power of diverse perspectives, which drive me to create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. By advocating for gender equality and inclusive policies, it is my aim to not only create opportunities for women but to set new standards of equality and inclusion within the industry.”
Prue Jenkins, CEO, Wunan Foundation
“My leadership is driven by a strong social conscious and the will to make a significant contribution to rural and remote communities, in particular Indigenous communities. I’m proud to have earned the respect of Indigenous community stakeholders through working in collaboration to drive Indigenous-led initiatives and solutions to critical community issues.”
Nurjan Ozdemir, Creative Director, Tilla
“I believe that women are able to achieve anything they want in life. It is an attitude, a belief in yourself, others and the universe that is bigger than the product or service that you are trying to create. It is a desire to keep going and growing despite the setbacks and acceptance of a lifelong journey of learning.”
Mirjana Boznovska, Founder & CEO, ONE Beyond Success
“The future of work excites me because it’s no longer just about what we do but who we are as individuals and as a team. Organizations that champion people development will lead the way, driving innovation and fostering meaningful impact. I see myself shaping this future by elevating humanity through being – empowering individuals to connect with their intrinsic motivation, thrive in their work and live with inner peace.”
