Rosemary Vilgan

Rosemary Vilgan is a highly accomplished business leader, innovator, and passionate advocate for women in the workforce. Known for her dynamic leadership and transformative impact in the financial services sector, Rosemary has spent over two decades shaping the future of superannuation and financial planning in Australia. As the former CEO of QSuper, one of the world’s largest pension funds, she led the organisation through an extraordinary period of growth and innovation, steering it from a public-sector superannuation fund into an award-winning, globally significant financial services business managing over $90 billion in assets. Her presentations are intriguing and educational as she speaks about her own challenges as a woman in the workforce.

During her 17-year tenure at QSuper, Rosemary pioneered numerous groundbreaking initiatives, including the development of a customisable superannuation product tailored to the unique needs of her clients, particularly those impacted by the Global Financial Crisis. This visionary approach saw 400,000 customers transition to a more adaptable and sustainable model, earning her a Global Innovation Award from Pensions and Investment Magazine in 2015. Additionally, in 2000 Rosemary assisted the company to achieve superannuation equity for Queensland Government workers, which benefitted over 80,000 people, many of whom where women. Under her leadership, QSuper won multiple accolades, including the Telstra Business Innovation Award for Queensland and the Australian HR Award for Employer of Choice (Public Sector and NFP).

Rosemary's unwavering commitment to championing women in business and leadership is also evident in her career milestones. In 2013, she was named Telstra Australian Business Woman of the Year, and the following year, she was honoured with a Life Membership from the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA), where she made history as its first female and youngest-ever board member. Her leadership also extended to her role as Chair of ASFA's Board, a position she held for six years, further cementing her reputation as a trailblazer in the superannuation industry.

In addition to her corporate achievements, Rosemary is also deeply involved in education and governance. She has served on the Council of Queensland University of Technology (QUT), including as Chair of its Audit and Risk Management Committee. In 2015, she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from QUT in recognition of her services to the university and to the Australian financial sector.

Drawing from her extensive experience, Rosemary’s keynote presentations provide invaluable insights into leadership, innovation, diversity, and overcoming challenges in the workplace. She speaks openly and authentically about the lessons she’s learned through both her triumphs and setbacks. Whether addressing the complexities of financial transformation or the importance of passion and perseverance in leadership, Rosemary inspires audiences to look beyond everyday obstacles and aim for transformative change.

A respected mentor and advocate, Rosemary Vilgan is not just a speaker but a force for positive change in both business and society.