Aware Super Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Aware Super has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, risk, and communications.

Committed to securing retirement outcomes for members, Aware Super delivers essential pension savings services through a robust financial framework that prioritizes long-term growth and sustainable investment performance across the Australian market.

Leadership Roles at Aware Super

  • Chief Executive Officer - Deanne Stewart
  • Chief Financial Officer - Nicola Darnell
  • Chief Operating Officer - Sally Collins
  • Chief Operating Officer, Investments - Justin Howell
  • Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer - Michael Holz
  • Chief of Staff - Gemma Johnston
  • 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 overarching strategic vision and organizational performance of the financial services provider. Stewart architects high-level growth initiatives while ensuring the alignment of pension savings services with member expectations. By engaging with the Board and senior leadership, the Chief Executive Officer maintains focus on long-term fiscal health and market competitiveness. Deanne Stewart drives the expansion of service offerings across Australia, ensuring operational excellence remains a priority. The Chief Executive Officer monitors industry trends to adapt the business model, fostering a culture of accountability and member-centric innovation. Through rigorous oversight of corporate governance, Stewart secures the stability of the organization. This leadership role demands constant evaluation of market dynamics to protect member assets. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer guarantees that the firm meets its fiduciary obligations while scaling operations to support a growing member base.

    Nicola Darnell - Chief Financial Officer

    Nicola Darnell, the Chief Financial Officer at Aware Super, governs the financial health and fiscal strategy of the pension savings provider. Darnell manages capital allocation, budgeting, and financial reporting to ensure the long-term viability of member funds. By overseeing the financial planning process, the Chief Financial Officer provides the data-driven insights necessary for strategic decision-making. Nicola Darnell directs the treasury and accounting functions, maintaining rigorous standards of transparency and regulatory compliance. This leadership role involves collaborating with the investment team to optimize portfolio performance and risk management. The Chief Financial Officer monitors economic indicators to protect the organization against market volatility. Through precise financial modeling, Darnell supports the expansion of services across the Australian landscape. The Chief Financial Officer ensures that all fiscal operations remain robust, providing the necessary foundation for the firm to deliver consistent value to members while maintaining a strong balance sheet.
    Nicola Darnell

    Sally Collins - Chief Operating Officer

    Sally Collins, the Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, manages the internal infrastructure and service delivery systems that support pension savings operations. Collins architects scalable processes to enhance member experiences and operational efficiency. By overseeing the day-to-day functions of the business, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that service delivery remains seamless and reliable. Sally Collins drives the digital transformation of administrative workflows, reducing complexity and improving response times for members. This leadership role involves coordinating with technology and service teams to maintain high standards of operational performance. The Chief Operating Officer monitors service metrics to identify areas for improvement, ensuring that the organization remains agile in a competitive financial services market. Through effective management of internal resources, Collins supports the firm's growth objectives. The Chief Operating Officer guarantees that all operational activities align with the strategic goals of the company, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
    Sally Collins

    Justin Howell - Chief Operating Officer, Investments

    Justin Howell, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments at Aware Super, directs the operational framework supporting the firm's investment activities and asset management strategies. Howell architects the systems required to execute complex investment mandates while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. By overseeing the operational side of the investment division, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments enables the team to focus on generating long-term returns for members. Justin Howell manages the integration of data and technology to enhance portfolio analysis and decision-making. This leadership role involves coordinating with external partners and internal stakeholders to ensure the smooth execution of investment strategies. The Chief Operating Officer, Investments monitors market risks and operational bottlenecks, implementing solutions to maintain efficiency. Through rigorous oversight of investment operations, Howell supports the firm's mission to provide secure retirement outcomes. The Chief Operating Officer, Investments ensures that all investment-related processes remain robust, scalable, and aligned with the broader financial objectives of the organization.

    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 operational integrity of the financial services provider. Holz architects comprehensive risk management strategies to protect member assets and ensure regulatory adherence. By managing the compliance function, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer mitigates potential threats to the organization's reputation and financial stability. Michael Holz directs the internal audit processes, ensuring that all business activities meet strict industry standards. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to embed risk awareness into the corporate culture. The Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer monitors evolving regulatory requirements, adapting internal policies to maintain full compliance. Through proactive risk identification and mitigation, Holz supports the firm's commitment to security and trust. The Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer guarantees that all operational and compliance activities remain aligned with the long-term mission of the firm.

    Gemma Johnston - Chief of Staff

    Gemma Johnston, the Chief of Staff at Aware Super, manages the internal coordination of executive workflows and strategic project execution. Johnston facilitates communication between the C-suite and various departments to ensure operational efficiency. By streamlining decision-making processes, the Chief of Staff enables the organization to respond rapidly to shifting financial service requirements. Gemma Johnston oversees the implementation of corporate initiatives, tracking progress against key performance indicators. This role involves managing complex cross-functional projects that support the broader mission of providing pension savings services. The Chief of Staff acts as a primary liaison for the executive team, ensuring that strategic priorities receive adequate resources and attention. Through meticulous planning and resource allocation, Johnston optimizes the daily operations of the leadership office. The Chief of Staff maintains organizational focus on core objectives, driving productivity and ensuring that all internal activities align with the long-term goals of the firm.

    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 organization's public messaging, member advocacy, and executive coordination. McPhee architects communication strategies that strengthen the firm's brand and influence within the Australian financial services sector. By overseeing advocacy efforts, the Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff ensures that the interests of members remain at the forefront of public policy discussions. Katrina McPhee manages the flow of information between the executive office and external stakeholders, maintaining transparency and trust. This leadership role involves coordinating high-level initiatives that align communication goals with the firm's strategic mission. The Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff monitors public sentiment and industry trends to refine messaging and engagement tactics. Through effective advocacy and communication, McPhee supports the firm's growth and reputation. The Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff guarantees that all external and internal communications remain consistent with the core values of the organization.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Insurance

    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 7 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, Chief Operating Officer, Investments, Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer.