Aware Super Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Aware Super has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, investments, risk, and communications.

Driven by a commitment to member prosperity, Aware Super provides essential financial services, focusing on robust pension savings solutions and fostering long-term financial well-being for the Australian public.

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
  • 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 strategic vision and operational execution for the financial services provider. Stewart guides the organization's mission to deliver exceptional pension savings services to the Australian public, ensuring alignment with market demands and regulatory frameworks. Overseeing all major departments, Stewart drives initiatives focused on enhancing member value and expanding the company's reach within the financial sector. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of innovation and accountability across the entire organization. By championing strategic partnerships and sustainable growth, Deanne Stewart solidifies Aware Super's position as a leading financial services provider.

    Nicola Darnell - Chief Financial Officer

    Nicola Darnell, the Chief Financial Officer at Aware Super, oversees all financial planning, reporting, and fiscal management for the organization. Darnell ensures the financial health and stability of Aware Super, managing budgets, investments, and capital allocation to support the company's long-term objectives. This critical role involves rigorous financial analysis and strategic advice to the executive team, safeguarding assets and optimizing financial performance. By maintaining stringent financial controls and exploring new revenue streams, Nicola Darnell strengthens the company's economic foundation. The CFO's oversight extends to risk management related to financial operations, ensuring compliance with all relevant accounting standards and regulations. Darnell drives financial strategy for sustained growth.
    Nicola Darnell

    Sally Collins - Chief Operating Officer

    Sally Collins, the Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, manages the day-to-day operational efficiency and service delivery across the organization. Collins ensures that the pension savings services offered to the public meet the highest standards of quality and compliance. This executive oversees critical functions including member support, technology infrastructure, and process optimization, directly impacting the member experience. By streamlining workflows and implementing best practices, Sally Collins enhances the operational capacity of Aware Super. The focus remains on scalable solutions that support the company's growth objectives and its commitment to financial security for its members. Collins drives operational excellence, ensuring robust service delivery.
    Sally Collins

    Justin Howell - Chief Operating Officer, Investments

    Justin Howell, the Chief Operating Officer, Investments at Aware Super, directs the operational framework supporting the company's investment strategies and portfolio management. Howell ensures the efficient execution of investment processes, from asset allocation to performance monitoring, aligning operations with the broader investment objectives. This executive manages the infrastructure and teams responsible for the seamless functioning of the investment division, crucial for delivering strong returns to members. By optimizing investment operations and mitigating operational risks within this sector, Justin Howell enhances the effectiveness of Aware Super's investment activities. Howell's focus is on robust operational support for all investment-related functions, ensuring integrity and efficiency in managing member assets.

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

    Michael Holz, the Manager, Risk & Compliance & Chief Operating Officer at Aware Super, leads the critical functions of risk management and regulatory compliance, alongside operational oversight. Holz ensures that Aware Super adheres to all legal and ethical standards, safeguarding the organization and its members from potential risks. This dual role involves developing and implementing robust compliance programs and operational policies that support the company's pension savings services. By meticulously managing risk frameworks and ensuring adherence to industry regulations, Michael Holz maintains the integrity and trustworthiness of Aware Super. Holz's leadership ensures operational resilience and a strong compliance posture, vital for long-term sustainability and member confidence.

    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, orchestrates strategic communications, advocacy efforts, and provides high-level support to the executive leadership. McPhee shapes the organization's public image and stakeholder engagement, ensuring clear and consistent messaging regarding Aware Super's mission and services. This role involves managing internal and external communications, driving advocacy initiatives, and facilitating the smooth functioning of executive operations. By enhancing communication channels and championing key organizational priorities, Katrina McPhee strengthens Aware Super's brand presence and influence. McPhee's strategic input and coordination are vital for aligning leadership efforts and advancing the company's objectives within the financial services landscape.

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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 6 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.