According to SMC’s interim chair Nicola Roxon, Sherry 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,” said Roxon, who will continue to serve on the SMC board as a nominee of HESTA.
“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’s vast experience includes a number of senior leadership positions across organisations in banking, infrastructure, tourism, sport, the arts, and the public sector.
She is presently chair of UNICEF Australia and chancellor of Queensland University of Technology.
She is also a serving director of NAB, Infrastructure Victoria, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.
Previously, she has been a non-executive director on the board of Sydney Airport for eight years and ING Australia for almost seven years.
Sherry also served as group executive of Westpac for eight years, which included leading Westpac’s New Zealand-listed subsidiary as CEO for five years. During this time, she led the implementation of paid maternity leave.
As the head of the Office for the Status of Women, her achievements include developing a national policy on superannuation for women.
Commenting on her appointment, Sherry said: “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.
“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.”
In November last year, the industry body – formed from the merger of the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) and Industry Super Australia (ISA) in September 2023 – welcomed Misha Schubert as its inaugural CEO.
She commenced in late February and is based in Canberra with regular presence in Melbourne to lead the existing team.
