Christian spirit motivates Willems

Mentor of the Year: Sue Willems, Australian Catholic Superannuation

A desire to support and guide colleagues to reach new heights is a common goal of all the Women in Financial Services Mentor of the Year nominees. 

The Australian Catholic Superannuation Retirement Fund’s head of special projects, Sue Willems, scooped the award for her mentorship skills, which mentees have described as “not only enabling them to achieve the results on a current project, but also providing them with tools and confidence to achieve continued and greater success in the future”. 

Australian Catholic Superannuation chief executive, Greg Cantor, said Sue had played a key role in the development of a number of team members, including senior management. 

“I have been privileged to witness Sue mentor many of the Fund staff,” he said. 

“Each of these individuals is indebted to the contribution that Sue has made to their professional development. 

“Sue has been incredible in the way she has selflessly made it her business to pass on her vast experience and knowledge¨ this is not part of Sue’s job description but rather stemmed purely from her desire to ensure the fund had a seamless transition and to see the individuals develop in their respective roles. 

“From my own perspective as her leader and colleague, I feel enriched by having known her for close on a quarter of a century.” 

Willems’ nomination saw off competition from a strong field of candidates, with the judges describing Shadforth Financial Group insurance specialist, Nancy Peat as “a strong candidate,” and “a warm and caring person, focussed on the individual and on giving people chances and support”. 

While BNP Paribas head of human resources, Cathy Doyle’s nomination was described as “excellent”, and AMP’s head of practice and adviser integration, Lauren Hyde, was seen as “a well-respected mentor”. 

Finalists 

Nancy Peat, Shadforth Financial Group 

Cathy Doyle, BNP Paribas 

Lauren Hyde, AMP 

Tania Browne, AMP Horizons 

For full coverage of the awards and winners click here