OUR MEMBERS

Anne Gorman graduated from the University of Sydney with a BA and a postgraduate degree in Medical Social Work. She led the Australian Government’s task force for the International Year of the Child at the United Nations. In 2003, she co-founded The Institute of Executive Coaching, partnering with Telstra, BHP, ANZ and various levels of government. Anne’s expertise has been instrumental in driving organisational success and fostering leadership development.

Barbara Cail is the founder, owner and operator of Rala Information Services – of which she is immediate past Executive Chair – managed 12 industry and business-based magazines, books and exhibitions. In 1984, she created Portfolio magazine for businesswomen, leading to the formation of CEW from a group of women featured in its pages. Initially affiliated with Women Chiefs of Enterprise based in Paris, after four years the group was renamed Chief Executive Women.  Barbara has been a constant advocate for women in business.

She is the past Chair of NSW Government Small Business Development Board, Director of the State Development Board, Director of the Taxation Research Council, Chair of ASIC Financial Development, Director of Alzheimer’s NSW, Chairman Alzheimer’s Advisory Committee, Member of the Salvation Army Appeals Board, and a Director of Independent Living. She was also a Member of the Federal Government Task Force – Leadership and Management and is on various advisory panels to State and Federal Government. She is Governor of The Smith Family Council.

Bonnie Boezeman is a seasoned board member, contributing across sectors such as funds management, insurance, IT, technology and retail. She is deeply committed to philanthropy and supports the Australian Golf Foundation. Bonnie is actively involved in CEW and sponsors a Leadership in Nursing Scholarship through CEW, fostering future leaders.

Carla Zampatti AC, celebrated as one of Australia’s leading fashion designers, founded her label in 1965 and served as Executive Chair of Carla Zampatti Pty Ltd. Renowned for her exceptional design, tailoring and understanding of the modern woman, she played a crucial role in making Australian women feel confident. She was an advocate for women’s empowerment and contributed to the women’s liberation movement in the 1960s. Carla served on several prominent boards and received numerous accolades, including the Order of Australia (AC). She passed away on 3 April, 2021.

Geraldine Paton, a former Executive Director of News Corporation and seasoned company director, has been instrumental in advocating for gender equity and leadership diversity. She was honoured with the Order of Australia in 1999 and the Centenary Medal in 2001 for her contributions to business and society.

Gillian Franklin is the Managing Director of The Heat Group, distributing brands including Max Factor, COVERGIRL, Bourjois and her proprietary brand, Ulta3. She is a prominent figure in the industry with an annual turnover of $130 million in retail sales. She is a board director and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment.

Heather Leembruggen is the Chair of IAA Australia and has been involved with the International Advertising Association (IAA) since 1976, locally and globally. A director of IAA Australia Chapter since 1978, and an IAA World Board director since 1984 she has served in IAA global positions of IAA World Treasurer, VP Elections, VP IAA Awards, VP for IAA World Congresses in Beijing, Dubai, and Beirut, and VP Young Professionals worldwide. Heather has received numerous awards for her achievements and service, including the Australian Centenary Medal in 2003.

Helen Lynch AM is a former banker with a long association with Westpac, including as a Director on the Westpac Board, and as Chair of both the Westpac Foundation and the Westpac Staff Superannuation Fund. She was a Founding Director of the Westpac Bicentennial Foundation, now called the Westpac Scholarship Fund, and continues to sit on its National Selection Committee. She has served as a director of numerous arts, charitable and government organisations. Helen was appointed a Member of The Order of Australia in 1994 and received the Centenary Medal in 2003. In 2005, Helen received an honorary doctorate from Griffith University.

Imelda Roche co-founded Nutrimetics International (Australia) Pty Limited in 1968 and acquired its worldwide interests in 1991. Nutrimetics was subsequently sold to the Sara Lee Corporation in 1997. Imelda has served on numerous boards and committees and received several honours, including an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 1995 and the Centenary Medal in 2001. Imelda has served on a number of boards and committees, most notably: St Vincent’s Hospital‚ Sisters of Charity Foundation‚ Garvan Medical Research Foundation‚ Bond University School of Business, Bond University Council‚ Business/Higher Education Round Table – Executive Committee, IDP – International Development Program of Australian Universities, Australian International Education Foundation Council, Macquarie University Graduate School of Management, Asia Australia Institute – University of NSW, Committee for Quality of Teacher Education – NSW Government, Australia Young Leaders Program Inc, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme in Australia, John Brown Foundation, APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation) Pacific Business Forum, APEC Business Advisory Council, Trade Policy Advisory Council of the Australian Government, Economic Development Council of the NSW State Government, CEDA – Committee for Economic Development of Australia, Family Business Australia, NSW Chapter, World Federation of Direct Selling Associations, Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust, Air Services Australia and Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games.

Julia Marion King AM is a prominent businesswoman with a distinguished career. She was a Director at Fairfax Media and CEO of Louis Vuitton, Australia. Julia served on the board of Opera Australia and was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in  2010 for her commitment to both business and the arts.

Pauline Markwell is a Director for The Royal Botanic Gardens Foundation, leveraging her expertise in marketing, communications, fundraising, executive search, management consulting and business leadership. Pauline’s passion for botanical conservation and her professional proficiency converge to create a powerful force for positive change within the organisation and beyond.

Penelope Seidler AM is the Director of architectural firm Harry Seidler and Associates. She earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Sydney and joined the firm in 1964 when she was registered as an architect.  A Fellow of the Australian institute of Architects since 1983, she has held positions on arts boards and councils including those of the National Gallery of Australia, the Museum of Contemporary Art, New York’s Museum of Modern Art, the Venice Biennale and is a current member of the National Gallery of Australia Foundation. Penelope was awarded a Centenary Medal in 2001 and was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2008. In 2011, she was made a Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur by the French Government and received an honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of New South Wales. She was made an honorary Doctor of Architecture by the University of Sydney in 2021.

Penny Carl-Nelson’s career spans entrepreneurship and film industry. She excels in financial management and film advisory, notably co-producing 2011 film  33 Postcards, the first joint film project between China and Australia. Penny’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for individuals navigating the dynamic intersections of entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation within the film industry, leaving an indelible mark on both local and international cinematic spheres.

In memory of Sonja Lyneham, a visionary leader and strategic planning expert who left an indelible mark on urban development, healthcare, and academia. With over 37 years as the Executive Director of a leading strategic planning company, she contributed significantly to the development infrastructure sector. Her impact extended to academia as an Adjunct Professor, and she played a pivotal role in major reforms within the property and infrastructure sector. Sonja’s legacy in strategic planning and healthcare advocacy remains a lasting inspiration.