Board and CEO Announcement 2024

September 2024

The Royal Hospital for Women Foundation (RHWF) is delighted to announce the appointment of two new Directors to the RHWF Board.  

Kerry Gonski and Juliana Nguyen have been appointed following a comprehensive recruitment process.

Kerry joins RHWF with an impressive philanthropic background including Variety and Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation. Juliana brings substantial experience in brand, marketing and strategy with Nike and AirBnB.

‘The Foundation is in an exciting stage of renewal and growth’ said Amanda Kenny, Chair. ‘We are thrilled to have the calibre of Kerry and Juliana join our Board of Directors, who all make a tremendous contribution’. Kerry and Juliana will join Chair Amanda Kenny, Vice Chair Harvey Carter, Alex Vynokur, Professor Alec Welsh, Donna Garland and Company Secretary, Demetria Chelepy.

‘We are thrilled to build our strength and capability as a board with these appointments and thank Rachael McLennan and team at People for Purpose who have worked closely with us on the search and placements. The process and appointments recognise the importance we place on governance as a charitable organisation,’ said Amanda.

Kerry comments on her appointment "As a mother of three little miracles, I have a deep appreciation for the transformative work the Royal Hospital for Women does. It is my absolute honour to join the RHWF board and contribute to its inspiring vision for the lifelong health of women and newborns."

Inspired by the vision of the Foundation, Juliana adds “I am privileged to be joining the board of The Royal Hospital for Women Foundation and supporting their purpose to transform the lifelong health of women, newborns and future generations. I applaud RHWF for daring to make it better for women.”

The Foundation will also promote General Manager, Elise Jennings, to the role of Chief Executive Officer. Elise has overseen the implementation of a new strategic plan to a sophisticated and impact-led model for philanthropy, advocacy and partnership for women’s health. The appointment is a recognition of her leadership.

For three decades, The Royal Hospital for Women Foundation has funded specialised medical equipment, innovative research, people and programs for the only dedicated women’s hospital in NSW.

In this new era, RHWF will take bold steps to improve the funding, advocacy and awareness for women’s health – reshaping how women, families and communities can access expert information, research and the best health practices that shape our future generations.

Kerry Gonski

Juliana Nguyen

Elise Jennings