SYDNEY – Diversity Council Australia (DCA), Australia’s leading authority on workplace diversity and inclusion, has announced the appointment of Catherine Hunter as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective March 2025. With over 30 years of experience in strategic business leadership and a strong commitment to social impact, Hunter is set to lead DCA into its next chapter.
Currently serving as Group General Manager of Inclusion and Belonging at Woolworths Group Limited, Hunter brings a wealth of expertise in fostering inclusive workplaces and driving organisational change. Her career also includes a 16-year tenure at KPMG Australia, where she held key roles such as Partner in Corporate Citizenship and Co-lead of KPMG Indigenous Services. Beyond the corporate sector, Hunter has held leadership positions at the Australia Business Arts Foundation and the Sydney Opera House Trust.
A Leader with a Proven Track Record
DCA Board Chair Sunita Gloster AM welcomed Hunter’s appointment, highlighting her unique blend of corporate and community experience. “Catherine has a deep understanding of how to engage leaders across business, government, and community in diversity and inclusion,” Gloster said. “Her role leading inclusion at one of Australia’s largest employers, coupled with her expertise in ESG and business and human rights, will be invaluable as DCA continues to support its members and address Australia’s workplace challenges.”
Gloster also emphasised the importance of workplace inclusion in driving innovation, collaboration, and business performance. “Catherine’s proven track record in building inclusive workplaces for the benefit of individuals, businesses, and the broader community made her a standout choice for this role,” she added.
A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
In addition to her corporate achievements, Hunter brings significant governance experience to the role. She currently serves as a Non-Executive Director for Studio Schools Australia, an innovative initiative improving school attendance for First Nations children in remote areas. Hunter also played a pivotal role as founding Director and Chairperson of the UN Global Compact Network Australia, the country’s principal sustainability initiative for businesses, from 2011 to 2019.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Hunter said, “I’m thrilled to be joining DCA at such a vital time for diversity and inclusion across Australia’s workplaces. Building upon the strong foundations laid by former CEO Lisa Annese and the DCA team, I look forward to working with our members as their trusted partner to strengthen inclusive work practices that enable people to thrive and perform at their best.”
Ensuring a Smooth Transition
Hunter will officially take up the CEO role in March 2025. Until then, DCA Deputy Board Chair Chris Lamb will continue as Interim CEO. Lamb will work closely with Hunter during the initial stages of her tenure to ensure a seamless transition.
DCA’s membership spans a diverse range of Australian workplaces, from ASX 100 companies and government agencies to small businesses. The organisation is renowned for its research and advocacy, helping members create inclusive environments that drive better business outcomes and societal impact.
With Catherine Hunter at the helm, DCA is poised to further its mission of advancing diversity and inclusion in Australian workplaces, ensuring that all employees have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to their fullest potential.
