Leadership Overview
Aware Super has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, marketing, investments, risk, and communications.
Focused on delivering robust pension savings services, Aware Super empowers members through sustainable financial growth and long-term wealth creation across the Australian market.
Focused on delivering robust pension savings services, Aware Super empowers members through sustainable financial growth and long-term wealth creation across the Australian market.
Leadership Roles at Aware Super
Deanne Stewart - Chief Executive Officer
Deanne Stewart, the Chief Executive Officer at Aware Super, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Stewart oversees the delivery of pension savings services to the public, ensuring alignment with member interests and regulatory standards. By architecting long-term growth initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer drives the firm toward market leadership within the Australian financial services sector. Deanne Stewart maintains constant communication with the Board to refine corporate objectives and enhance service accessibility. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships while fostering a culture of operational excellence. Through the implementation of innovative financial products, the Chief Executive Officer secures the retirement future of millions. Ultimately, Stewart optimizes organizational performance to ensure sustainable value creation for all members, solidifying the reputation of the firm as a premier provider of retirement solutions across the entire national landscape.
Nicola Darnell - Chief Financial Officer
Nicola Darnell, the Chief Financial Officer at Aware Super, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the organization. Darnell oversees capital management, budgeting, and financial reporting to ensure transparency and regulatory compliance. By analyzing market trends, the Chief Financial Officer drives informed investment decisions that protect member assets. Nicola Darnell manages the financial risk profile of the firm, ensuring that all fiscal activities align with long-term sustainability goals. This role involves collaborating with the investment team to evaluate performance and optimize portfolio returns. Through the implementation of robust financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the integrity of the pension savings services provided to the public. Darnell secures the financial future of the organization by balancing growth opportunities with prudent fiscal management, ultimately strengthening the market position of the firm within the Australian financial services sector.
Sally Collins - Chief Operating Officer
Sally Collins, the Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, manages the internal infrastructure and service delivery systems. Collins oversees the operational framework that supports pension savings services, ensuring seamless member experiences. By optimizing administrative workflows, the Chief Operating Officer drives efficiency across all business units. Sally Collins coordinates with technology and service teams to implement scalable solutions that meet the demands of a growing member base. This leadership role involves monitoring performance metrics to identify areas for process improvement and cost reduction. Through the application of rigorous operational standards, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that the firm maintains high levels of service quality. Collins supports the strategic objectives of the organization by providing a stable and responsive operational foundation, ultimately contributing to the long-term financial security of members across the diverse Australian market.

Justin Howell - Chief Operating Officer, Investments
Justin Howell, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments at Aware Super, directs the operational execution of the investment division. Howell oversees the systems and processes that support portfolio management and asset allocation. By streamlining investment operations, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments drives efficiency in the deployment of member capital. Justin Howell coordinates with the investment committee to ensure that all trading and settlement activities adhere to strict compliance and performance standards. This role involves managing the infrastructure required to support complex financial transactions across global markets. Through the implementation of advanced analytical tools, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments enhances the capability of the firm to generate competitive returns. Howell supports the broader investment strategy by providing a reliable and scalable operational environment, ultimately ensuring that the firm effectively manages the retirement savings of members throughout the national landscape.
Michael Holz - Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer
Michael Holz, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, oversees the governance framework and internal control systems. Holz directs the identification and mitigation of operational risks to ensure the protection of member interests. By implementing comprehensive compliance programs, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer drives adherence to regulatory requirements across all business functions. Michael Holz monitors internal processes to detect potential vulnerabilities and enforces policies that maintain the integrity of the firm. This leadership role involves working closely with legal and audit teams to address emerging threats in the financial services sector. Through the application of rigorous risk management protocols, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer ensures that the organization operates within safe and ethical boundaries. Holz secures the operational stability of the firm, ultimately fostering trust and confidence among members nationwide.
Gemma Johnston - Chief of Staff
Gemma Johnston, the Chief of Staff at Aware Super, coordinates executive workflows and facilitates cross-departmental collaboration. Johnston manages the daily operations of the leadership office, ensuring that strategic priorities receive immediate attention. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff improves organizational efficiency and supports the execution of corporate goals. Gemma Johnston monitors project timelines and resource allocation to maintain high standards of service delivery. This role requires constant interaction with senior management to resolve operational bottlenecks and align departmental activities with the broader mission of the firm. Through meticulous planning and oversight, the Chief of Staff enables the executive team to focus on high-impact decision-making. Johnston drives organizational agility by fostering clear communication channels, ultimately ensuring that the firm remains responsive to the evolving needs of members throughout the Australian financial services landscape.
Gretchen Fox - Chief Marketing Officer
Gretchen Fox, the Chief Marketing Officer at Aware Super, leads the brand strategy and member engagement initiatives. Fox oversees the development of communication campaigns that educate the public on pension savings and financial wellness. By leveraging data-driven insights, the Chief Marketing Officer drives brand awareness and member acquisition across the Australian market. Gretchen Fox manages the digital presence and outreach programs to ensure that members receive clear, actionable information regarding retirement planning. This leadership role involves coordinating with product teams to align marketing messaging with the specific needs of the member base. Through the execution of targeted outreach, the Chief Marketing Officer enhances the visibility and reputation of the firm. Fox fosters strong connections with the community, ultimately driving member loyalty and ensuring that the organization remains a trusted partner in the financial lives of Australians.
Katrina McPhee - Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff
Katrina McPhee, the Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff at Aware Super, directs the public affairs and internal coordination strategies. McPhee oversees the advocacy efforts that promote the interests of members to policymakers and the broader public. By managing communication channels, the Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff drives the narrative of the firm as a champion for retirement security. Katrina McPhee coordinates executive activities to ensure that advocacy goals remain integrated with the daily operations of the organization. This role involves building relationships with key stakeholders to influence positive outcomes for the pension savings industry. Through the execution of strategic communication plans, the Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff enhances the influence of the firm. McPhee ensures that the organization remains a powerful voice for members, ultimately shaping the future of the Australian financial services landscape.
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