Media releases

Westpac Foundation appoints Jon Nicholson as new chair

 

20 December 2013

The chair of the Westpac Foundation Board, Carolyn Hewson, today announced her retirement following her appointment to the panel of the Commonwealth Government’s Financial System Inquiry.

The Foundation has appointed board member Jon Nicholson as Ms Hewson’s successor as chair. Mr Nicholson has served on the board for four years.

Ms Hewson said she was confident that under Mr Nicholson’s leadership the Foundation would continue to build on its unique position of supporting Australian social enterprises.

"I have had the great honour of serving as chair for the last three years,” said Ms Hewson. “The Foundation does excellent work, having donated over $28 million since 1999 to the brightest innovators for social change around Australia and the Pacific.”

The Board acknowledged the contribution Ms Hewson had made to the Foundation and its work in helping to create opportunities for Australia’s most disadvantaged people.

In paying tribute to Ms Hewson, Mr Nicholson said: “I would like to thank Carolyn for everything she has done, both as chair and as a board member, and wish her well for the future.”

Mr Nicholson said his main priorities as chair would be to develop the Foundation’s vision and drive its future success. “I am extremely proud of what the Foundation has achieved and I look forward to working with the Board, our community partners, and Westpac to achieve even greater social outcomes.”