Jill Lester – Non-Executive Director – Appointed

Jill has held leadership positions in not-for-profit/community, corporate and government sectors.  Her experience includes Global President of New York-based international development organisation (The Hunger Project), Executive General Manager (CBA and Telstra), and Senior Officer in the Australian public service, including key roles in Australia and overseas (Departments of Aboriginal Affairs, Foreign Affairs and Trade, and ONA).

She has previously held board positions, including the national Board of Australian Red Cross and the International Issues Management Council based in Washington, giving her a sound understanding of governance models.

Jill holds post graduate qualifications in arts, economics, and education from University of Sydney, University of NSW, University of Queensland and University of New England. While her experience has covered all aspects of business management, her expertise and interest include assessment and evaluation of organisations’ social and ethical impact, reputation and brand management, strategic planning and implementation, and positioning organisations to best align their interests with community and customer expectations.

Jill brings her passion for the performing arts, including music and theatre, and her enthusiasm at the increasingly important role that arts and music organisations can play in nurturing community well-being.

Term expires 16 July 2026