Aware Super Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Aware Super has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, communication, and risk.

Driven by a commitment to member prosperity, Aware Super provides essential pension savings services, impacting the financial future of the public through dedicated financial services.

Leadership Roles at Aware Super

  • Chief Executive Officer - Deanne Stewart
  • Chief Financial Officer - Nicola Darnell
  • Chief Operating Officer - Sally Collins
  • Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer - Michael Holz
  • Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff - Katrina McPhee
  • Deanne Stewart - Chief Executive Officer

    Deanne Stewart, the Chief Executive Officer at Aware Super, directs the overall strategy and vision for the financial services provider. Overseeing all major business units, Stewart ensures alignment with the company's mission to offer pension savings services to the public. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and maintaining the organization's strong market position within Australia. By focusing on member outcomes, Deanne Stewart actively shapes the future of retirement planning for a broad client base. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering a culture of innovation and operational excellence across the entire organization, ensuring Aware Super remains a trusted partner in financial security. Stewart's strategic direction guides the company's expansion and service enhancements, directly impacting the financial well-being of its members.

    Nicola Darnell - Chief Financial Officer

    Nicola Darnell, the Chief Financial Officer at Aware Super, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing all financial operations, Darnell ensures robust capital management and accurate financial reporting for the pension savings provider. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support Aware Super's long-term objectives and market expansion within Australia. By meticulously managing budgets and investments, Nicola Darnell safeguards the financial integrity of the organization. The Chief Financial Officer's duties include risk assessment, compliance with financial regulations, and optimizing resource allocation to enhance member value. Darnell's expertise is vital in navigating the complex financial landscape, ensuring sustainable growth and operational efficiency for Aware Super's public pension services.
    Nicola Darnell

    Sally Collins - Chief Operating Officer

    Sally Collins, the Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, executes the operational strategies that underpin the company's service delivery. Overseeing day-to-day operations, Collins ensures the efficient and effective provision of pension savings services to the public. This leadership position involves optimizing internal processes and managing resources to enhance member experience and operational scalability. By driving operational improvements, Sally Collins directly contributes to Aware Super's mission of financial security for its members. The Chief Operating Officer's focus includes streamlining workflows, managing technology integration, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Collins's operational oversight is fundamental to maintaining the high quality of service expected from Aware Super in the Australian financial sector.
    Sally Collins

    Michael Holz - Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer

    Michael Holz, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, directs the critical functions of risk management and regulatory compliance, alongside operational oversight. Overseeing the frameworks that ensure the integrity and security of pension savings services, Holz safeguards the organization against financial and operational risks. This multifaceted role involves developing and implementing robust compliance policies and procedures, ensuring adherence to all relevant Australian financial regulations. By meticulously managing risk and compliance, Michael Holz supports the company's commitment to providing secure and trustworthy financial services. The Chief Operating Officer aspect of this position involves contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of operational processes, ensuring seamless service delivery to the public.

    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, leads critical communication and advocacy efforts while supporting executive operations. Overseeing strategic messaging and stakeholder engagement, McPhee ensures the company's mission and value proposition are clearly communicated to the public and industry stakeholders. This dual role involves managing internal communications, coordinating advocacy initiatives, and providing high-level support to the executive team, enhancing organizational alignment and effectiveness. By shaping public perception and fostering strong relationships, Katrina McPhee champions Aware Super's commitment to member well-being. The Chief of Staff responsibilities include driving key projects and ensuring seamless execution of the CEO's agenda, directly impacting the company's strategic outreach and operational efficiency.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Aware Super Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Aware Super?
    Aware Super is led by Deanne Stewart (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Nicola Darnell (Chief Financial Officer) and Sally Collins (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Aware Super’s executive team?
    The executive team of Aware Super includes leaders such as Deanne Stewart (Chief Executive Officer), Nicola Darnell (Chief Financial Officer), Sally Collins (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Aware Super have?
    Aware Super has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Aware Super’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Aware Super includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer, Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff.