Ann Sherry joins Super Members Council as Chair

Australian businesswoman and former ING Group and ING Australia director, Ann Sherry AO, has been appointed the inaugural Chair of the Super Members Council (SMC).

Sherry brings her decades-strong leadership experience across banking, infrastructure, tourism, sport, arts and the public sector to the new role. The SMC noted several achievements, including developing a national policy on superannuation for women while heading up the Office for the Status of Women and introducing paid maternity leave while at Westpac.

“Ann will bring depth, judgement and perspective to the role. Having a Chair of her stature and experience to help guide a strong Board at this crucial time is very welcome,” SMC’s Interim Chair, Nicola Roxon, said.

“Ann will be a tremendous asset to SMC as it builds on its purpose of member-centred advocacy that works across the full breadth of the Parliament to deliver the best possible retirement opportunities for the millions of Australians who rely on us.”

Sherry will commence in the role on 1 July, while Roxon will continue on the SMC Board as HESTA’s nominee.

“With Misha Schubert now settled as our inaugural CEO, this will ensure a smooth transition at the governance level – and support SMC’s mission to fearlessly protect and promote the interests of millions of Australians through deliberate and thoughtful leadership in superannuation policy,” Roxon said.

Sherry is currently the Chair of UNICEF Australia and Director of National Australia Bank, among several other roles.

“Australia’s super system is the envy of the world, and we are now beginning to see it bear fruit as more Australians retire with more super giving them financial flexibility and economic security,’’ Sherry said.

“It’s a privilege to be given this opportunity to help ensure the super system reflects Australia’s modern society and economy – and that it is strengthened to meet the needs of more Australians.”