Non-Executive Director

Mary is an experienced Non-Executive Director (GAICD) with board roles spanning the health, research and community sectors, bringing strong governance capability across complex, regulated and purpose-driven organisations.

Her board contribution is underpinned by extensive senior executive and governance experience, including oversight of strategy, risk, compliance, quality and safety, and performance across large, multidisciplinary and hospital-linked environments as well as stakeholder engagement across complex, multidisciplinary environments. She brings strength in research and clinical governance, accreditation and standards and translating complex evidence into strategic decision-making.

Mary is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the Australasian Institute of Clinical Governance and Women on Boards.

Her portfolio reflects a commitment to improving health outcomes and equity, and to supporting organisations across health, research and community sectors to deliver impact through strong governance, evidence-informed strategy and translation of research into practice.

  • Non-Executive Director (08/2023-present)

    Serving on the Board of an established Australian medical charity (founded 1986) that advances otolaryngology, head and neck surgery through Clinical Chairs, fellowships and grants. The organisation has distributed more than $95 million to date and allocates a further $4–6 million annually to support clinical and scientific excellence and improve patient outcomes across Australia and New Zealand.

    Appointed to the Board by the Trustees to provide strategic oversight of research investment, governance of the funding pipeline, and stewardship of donor intent. This includes setting transparent allocation frameworks, strengthening risk oversight, and ensuring funding decisions demonstrate measurable clinical and societal return.

    A priority of my Board leadership is addressing the disproportionately high rates of ear and hearing problems experienced by First Nations peoples. These issues have profound effects on health, growth, learning and quality of life. I contribute to shaping programs and initiatives aimed at reducing these inequities and improving long-term outcomes.

  • External Board Member (01/2025-present)

    Recruited as External Board Member given my leadership and expertise in environment, health and safety in animal and clinical research settings.

    Provide governance oversight to ensure full compliance with legislation and Australian Standards relating to gene technology and biosecurity.

    Actively contribute to developing and approving policies for the safe use of biologically hazardous materials, ensuring all practices meet the highest ethical and safety standards.

  • Australasian Birth Trauma Association Ltd, Non-Executive Director; Fundraising & Grants Committee; Volunteer (06/2022-08/2023).

    Served as a Non-Executive Director for Birth Trauma Australia, the nation’s first charity dedicated to supporting women, partners and families affected by birth-related trauma. Contributed to the Fundraising & Grants Committee, helping identify and develop new fundraising opportunities to strengthen the organisation’s reach and impact.

    Villagehood Australia Ltd, Inaugural Non-Executive Director and Advisory Board Member; Volunteer (10/2021-08/2023).

    Served as a Non-Executive Director at Villagehood Australia, an organisation dedicated to transforming the experience of motherhood and supporting women’s wellbeing. Provided expertise in grant funding and corporate governance as an inaugural Advisory Board Member, helping shape the organisation’s early strategic direction and impact.

    Pines Learning Inc. Non-Executive Director; Policy Sub Committee; Volunteer (11/2021-10/2025)

    Served as a Non-Executive Director at Pines Learning providing governance oversight of accredited and non-accredited education programs, supporting an organisation with $2.2 million in revenue and a team of 15 staff. Contributed to policy development as a member of the Policy Subcommittee, applying deep expertise in higher education, governance and risk management to strengthen organisational standards and decision-making.