WiBF Board Leadership Transitions: Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future
06 Mar 2025
As we step into 2025, a milestone year marking WiBF’s 25th anniversary, we are excited to share some key updates from our recent Board meeting held on 3 March.
Firstly, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sangeeta Venkatesan, who is stepping down as WiBF President. Sangeeta has been an integral part of WiBF since joining the Board sever years ago and subsequently being appointed as President in 2021. Throughout her tenure, Sangeeta has been a champion for driving meaningful conversations, frequently moderating and speaking at WiBF events to elevate critical discussions within our industry. Her deep knowledge, connections, and generosity in sharing insights have strengthened our community, creating invaluable opportunities for our members to learn, grow, and connect.
As we express our heartfelt thanks to Sangeeta, we are excited to announce Natalie Vanstone as the new WiBF President. Natalie was elected as a WiBF Director in May 2024 and brings more than 30 years of experience in investment banking in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK to this role. Natalie joined RBC Capital Markets in 2021 as Head of Global Markets, Australia, and is a member of the RBC Capital Markets Australia Operating Committee and the RBC Australia Diversity Leadership Council. Natalie’s deep commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the financial sector makes her an inspiring leader for WiBF’s next chapter.
We also acknowledge Christina Tonkin, who is departing as WiBF Vice-President. Christina has been a dedicated WiBF Director since joining the Board in 2015, and her passion and determination have played a pivotal role in shaping WiBF into the thriving community it is today. Her leadership and advocacy have significantly contributed to the WiBF’s growth and impact, and we are deeply grateful for all her support.
We also warmly welcome Nicole Chung as a newly appointed WiBF Director. Nicole’s expertise and insights will undoubtedly strengthen our leadership team and drive WiBF’s mission forward. Nicole is currently the Head of Capability at ANZ’s Institutional Bank, where she leads the design and delivery of the capability strategy for the global network. Nicole’s role involves identifying future workforce leadership and learning needs, designing initiatives for workforce readiness, and managing senior external partnerships.
A Record-Breaking Year
The recent Board meeting also highlighted the incredible momentum WiBF has gained, with 2024 already breaking multiple records. We have seen unprecedented growth in total membership, record-high member satisfaction, and outstanding attendance at our events. This strong start sets the stage for an extraordinary year ahead, filled with engaging events and impactful initiatives.
As we celebrate 25 years of WiBF, we extend our deepest thanks to our Board of Directors for their ongoing support, and to all those who contribute to our success, including WiBF’s Independent Chair, Diana D’Ambra AM, and WiBF CEO, Stephanie Girard.
We look forward to another year of growth, connection, and celebration with our members and partners.
