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our vision
McKinnon (previously known as the Susan McKinnon Foundation) was established in 2015 by Sophie Oh and Grant Rule. Our new name signals a renewed commitment to empower better governments for a stronger Australia. This mission was inspired by Grant’s mother, who instils the values of service and positive contribution in those around her.
As a truly independent, non-partisan, not-for-profit organisation, we believe that real change is possible - but only if we take a long-term view in facilitating the development of political leadership, increasing public sector productivity, creating a thriving democracy and accelerating policy innovation.
These are not separate goals. They are deeply interconnected and mutually reinforce trust. Trust in our leaders, institutions and democracy which help build the conditions for lasting, positive change for all Australians.
McKinnon Co-founders
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“At McKinnon, we recognise the pivotal role that governments play in our lives. As such, we are committed to strengthening the capability, integrity, and decision-making of governments, while fostering a strong democratic society.”
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“Australia has benefited significantly from the courageous, long sighted policy decisions of political leaders. We have established McKinnon to support our governments to be highly effective, and to strengthen our precious democracy.”
Board of directors
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“McKinnon’s work is dedicated to promoting effective political leadership and democratic processes. Our efforts are focused on elevating governance standards and cultivating political collaboration, both of which are critical to strengthening Australia’s democratic institutions."
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“Politicians need to understand how the political and policy system work, to get better results for their constituents. Effective politicians will also have the confidence needed for reforms that improve performance of the economy in the public service.”
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“Strong democratic institutions and effective political leadership, with integrity and courage, is the lever for meaningful change and sustainable impact. McKinnon’s goal is to contribute to a system where these qualities are expected, developed and rewarded”.
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“Australians are losing trust in the effectiveness and integrity of government. We need to significantly enhance the way parliamentarians, ministers, ministerial advisers and public servants operate and work together in the interests of their citizens.”
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“McKinnon aims to connect evidence about what works to promote better government with the people who make the decisions that matter.”
MANAGEMENT TEAM
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Mike Baird is the CEO of McKinnon, working to improve Australia’s public administration, support effective political leadership, and strengthen the nation’s democratic institutions. Mike has over 30 years’ experience in banking and financial services, including senior roles at NAB, Deutsche Bank and HSBC. He was NSW Treasurer and served as the 44th Premier of NSW. Most recently, he served as CEO of HammondCare, an independent Christian charity providing health, palliative care, dementia and aged care services.
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The former Deputy Premier of South Australia (2022–2025), Susan brings extensive experience across executive government, public service and academia. Susan also holds a PhD in political science and has worked at the University of Adelaide. Her career reflects a strong commitment to evidence-based policy, system improvement and building the capability of those working in public life.
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Seamus has spent his career working with public sector leaders to design, advocate for and deliver public policy reforms. As Director of Strategy and Research, he supports the delivery of McKinnon’s programs and the development of new areas of focus. Seamus has previously worked as Chief of Staff to the Victorian Treasurer, as an adviser to two Prime Ministers, and as a management consultant with The Boston Consulting Group.
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Lucy has spent her career working at the centre of government in Australia, the UK and internationally, supporting political leaders and senior public servants to translate strategic ambition into tangible outcomes. Most recently, she led the global delivery work at the Tony Blair Institute, designing its delivery offer and working with teams across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Americas to advise heads of state and prime ministers’ offices.
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Sam has been with McKinnon since its inception in 2015 and has played a central role in shaping its purpose and early programs, including the McKinnon Institute and the McKinnon Prize. Prior to joining McKinnon, Sam held senior roles in brand, marketing and product development with Target, Moose Enterprise and Mattel in Australia and New York. In addition to her executive role with McKinnon, she is a Board member of the McKinnon Institute.
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Tom leads McKinnon’s work to renew and strengthen Australia’s democratic institutions. He has more than a decade’s experience leading teams delivering complex policy reform and providing strategic advice to political leaders at the federal and state level. Most recently, he served as Chief of Staff to the Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong.
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As COO and Director of Leadership, Leigh oversees finance, operations, people and governance, enabling the work of McKinnon, while also providing strategic leadership to the McKinnon Leadership portfolio. Leigh has deep executive experience across the UK, US and Australia, including roles at NAB and Xero, bringing commercial acumen and governance expertise to long-term, systems-focused reform. She has held multiple board roles across the arts, human rights and the private sector, reflecting her commitment to community, cultural diversity and inclusive leadership.
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In her role as Director of Marketing Communications, Belinda and her team are responsible for brand strategy, campaign delivery, media engagement and events that support McKinnon in achieving its mission. She has previously held senior marketing roles at Macquarie Bank, Deloitte and ING, delivering brand transformation, global campaigns and customer acquisition strategy. She is committed to the role of government in providing equity and opportunity for vulnerable Australians.
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Rachael leads work that connects people and partners with McKinnon’s mission through programs, research and events. She spent nearly two decades as a staffer in the Australian Parliament, including roles supporting Cabinet Ministers and the Senate Leader. She has also worked in a policy think tank, public affairs consultancy and international aid organisation, bringing experience across government, policy and stakeholder engagement.
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