Aware Super Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Aware Super has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, operational management, risk compliance, and communications.

Committed to securing retirement futures for members, Aware Super delivers robust pension savings services while maintaining a focus on long-term financial growth and sustainable investment practices across the Australian market.

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
  • Chief Operating Officer, Investments - Justin Howell
  • 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 long-term growth trajectory of the organization. By aligning pension savings services with member needs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the delivery of high-value financial outcomes. Deanne Stewart manages high-level stakeholder relationships and drives the expansion of market reach across Australia. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of the competitive landscape to maintain the firm's position as a premier financial services provider. Through the implementation of innovative retirement solutions, the Chief Executive Officer fosters organizational resilience and operational excellence. By prioritizing member-centric policies, Stewart secures the financial stability of the fund. The Chief Executive Officer also collaborates with the Board to refine governance frameworks, ensuring that all corporate activities support the core mission of providing reliable pension savings to the public while navigating complex regulatory environments.

    Nicola Darnell - Chief Financial Officer

    Nicola Darnell, the Chief Financial Officer at Aware Super, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies of the organization. Overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and investment analysis, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the integrity of all monetary operations. Nicola Darnell directs the development of robust financial models that support the long-term pension savings goals of the membership base. This role involves rigorous oversight of capital reserves and the optimization of cost structures to maximize member returns. By maintaining transparency in financial disclosures, the Chief Financial Officer builds trust with stakeholders and regulatory bodies. Darnell also coordinates with the investment teams to align liquidity requirements with broader market opportunities. Through precise financial planning and risk assessment, the Chief Financial Officer safeguards the assets of the fund, ensuring that the organization remains well-positioned to meet future obligations while driving sustainable growth across the Australian financial services sector.
    Nicola Darnell

    Sally Collins - Chief Operating Officer

    Sally Collins, the Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, directs the internal infrastructure and service delivery systems that support the organization's pension savings operations. By optimizing business processes and technology platforms, the Chief Operating Officer ensures seamless member experiences and operational efficiency. Sally Collins oversees the scaling of administrative functions to accommodate the growing needs of the membership base. This role involves the integration of digital tools to enhance service accessibility and reliability across the Australian market. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the Chief Operating Officer drives the refinement of operational workflows to reduce friction in service delivery. Collins also collaborates with other executives to ensure that internal capabilities align with the firm's strategic goals. Through the management of day-to-day operations, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the high standards of service expected by members, ensuring that the organization remains a leader in the financial services industry.
    Sally Collins

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

    Michael Holz, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, architects the framework for regulatory adherence and operational risk mitigation. By identifying potential vulnerabilities within the pension savings business model, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer ensures that all activities align with strict industry standards. Michael Holz directs the implementation of robust compliance protocols that protect the interests of members and the integrity of the fund. This role involves monitoring the evolving regulatory landscape to proactively address emerging risks. By integrating risk management into daily operations, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer maintains the stability of the organization. Holz also coordinates with legal and audit teams to ensure comprehensive oversight of all financial services. Through the application of rigorous control measures, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer safeguards the firm's reputation and ensures long-term operational continuity in the competitive Australian financial sector.

    Justin Howell - Chief Operating Officer, Investments

    Justin Howell, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments at Aware Super, directs the operational infrastructure supporting the firm's investment activities and asset management functions. By streamlining the processes involved in portfolio management and trade execution, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments ensures that the organization effectively manages member capital. Justin Howell oversees the integration of data analytics and investment technology to enhance decision-making capabilities. This role involves coordinating with the investment team to ensure that operational workflows support the firm's long-term growth objectives. By maintaining high standards of operational efficiency, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments enables the fund to capitalize on market opportunities across the Australian and global financial landscapes. Howell also manages the relationships with external investment partners and service providers to ensure seamless execution. Through the optimization of investment operations, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments contributes directly to the financial performance and stability of the pension savings services provided to the public.

    Gemma Johnston - Chief of Staff

    Gemma Johnston, the Chief of Staff at Aware Super, coordinates executive workflows and facilitates cross-departmental alignment to ensure the efficient execution of corporate strategy. By managing the flow of information between the leadership team and the broader organization, the Chief of Staff optimizes decision-making processes. Gemma Johnston oversees the implementation of key initiatives that support the firm's mission of providing pension savings services. This role involves streamlining internal communications and ensuring that strategic priorities receive the necessary resources for successful completion. By acting as a central point of contact for the executive suite, the Chief of Staff maintains focus on high-impact projects that drive organizational performance. Johnston also monitors the progress of critical business objectives, providing the necessary support to keep operations on track. Through effective project management and organizational oversight, the Chief of Staff ensures that the company remains agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the Australian 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, directs the external messaging and public policy engagement strategies of the organization. By shaping the narrative around pension savings and retirement security, the Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff builds trust with the public and key stakeholders. Katrina McPhee oversees the development of advocacy campaigns that promote the interests of members within the Australian financial services landscape. This role involves managing corporate communications to ensure consistency and clarity in all public-facing materials. By coordinating with the executive team, the Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff aligns advocacy efforts with the firm's broader strategic objectives. McPhee also facilitates internal alignment by managing executive priorities and communication flows. Through effective engagement and strategic storytelling, the Group Exec- Communication and Advocacy and Chief of Staff strengthens the organization's influence and supports its mission to provide reliable financial services.

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