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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, supporting effective political leadership, and strengthening 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), was former NSW Treasurer and served as the 44th Premier of NSW. Mike is passionate about family, sport and looking after the community’s most vulnerable. Most recently he was CEO, HammondCare, an independent Christian charity providing health, palliative care, dementia, and aged care services.
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Jay Weatherill is the Executive Director of Democracy at McKinnon and, together with Mike Baird, seeks to strengthen Australia’s democracy. Jay was Premier of South Australia for over six years and a Minister for 16 years. He holds Law and Economics degrees and is an Industry Professor at the University of South Australia and an Ambassador for Reggio Children. He was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in the 2021 Australia Day Honours list for his work in early childhood development. Most recently, he led the Thrive by Five campaign for early years reform with the Minderoo Foundation.
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As COO & Director of Leadership Leigh oversees finance, operations, people and governance enabling the work of McKinnon, whilst also providing strategic leadership to our McKinnon Leadership portfolio. Leigh has deep executive experience across the UK, US, and Australia including 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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Sam has been with McKinnon since its inception in 2015. She has been instrumental in the establishment of McKinnon, working with the Co-founders to establish its purpose and early programs such as the McKinnon Institute and the McKinnon Prize. Prior to joining McKinnon, Sam held senior roles in brand, marketing and product development for Target, Moose Enterprise and Mattel in Australia and New York. In addition to her executive role with McKinnon, she is on the Board of the McKinnon Institute.
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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 & Research, Seamus supports the delivery of McKinnon's programs and 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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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 passionate about the role of government to provide equity and opportunity for vulnerable Australians.
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