board of directors

Sherman has over 20 years of experience in higher education, holding academic leadership, research, teaching and governance roles at both RMIT and Macquarie Universities.

He is currently Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education and Vice-President at RMIT, and he joined the Spectrum Board in 2021. Prior to becoming an academic, he ran a multimedia production company, building interactive media for corporate and publishing clients. Sherman has a deep understanding of what is required to lead organisation transformation projects, and embraces the concepts of diversity and inclusion in all of his work.

Sherman has a BSc (UNSW), Masters in Media Technology and Law (Macquarie University) and a PhD in Media and Cultural Studies (UQ).

“As a migrant myself, I’m passionate about ensuring that new arrivals have every opportunity to succeed. Spectrum can help build a truly welcoming Australia that celebrates diversity”.

Nesan joined the Board in 2015. He has 28 years of experience in leadership and executive management. He is currently CEO of an international Consulting company, and serves on the board of three not-for-profit organisations in the health, education and financial services sectors. Nesan brings to the board; specialist skills in business improvement, change management, strategic leadership and human resources. He has an MBA from MBS, BA and qualifications in strategic leadership, business, marketing and General Manager Program through AGSM.

“Spectrum allows me the opportunity to support new migrants and refugees to feel Welcomed and Respected in a diverse Australia where everyone is appreciated for who they are, irrespective of race, colour or creed.”

Pal joined the Board in 2016. He has strong skills in people, commercial, strategy and risk management with over 20 years of leadership experience in managing, developing and transforming multi-million dollar businesses across Australia and Asia Pacific. He is a member of CPA, graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors and MBA from Monash University. He has worked in information technology, logistics, manufacturing, consumer products and professional services sectors and currently working with Transport NSW as a commercial manager.

“Membership to the Board provides me with the platform to oversee settlement of refugees and migrants, promote their well-being and help them achieve a fulfilling life.”

Rebecca joined the Board in 2019. Currently the Director, System Improvement, Innovation and Leadership, Safer Care Victoria, Rebecca has had a passion for innovation and improvement throughout her career, with a particular interest in system re-design, reducing fragmentation and supporting vulnerable communities. Rebecca has senior leadership experience encompassing strategy development and deployment, design and delivery of new models of care and supporting operational performance.

With a keen interest in the patient experience, Rebecca has published on topics including workforce re-design (using co-design), and health and homelessness. Rebecca has a Masters of Health Administration, and eclectic training and experience in lean/six sigma, IHI breakthrough collaborative model, executive coaching, co-design and design thinking.

Chris is a people and values-driven finance professional, with over 30 years’ experience in the community welfare services, investment, funds management, stockbroking, money market, banking and heavy equipment leasing sectors.

Chris is a Principal with the CFO Centre in Victoria, and has a portfolio of clients in a variety of industries. Prior to this, he was CFO for 18 years at Anglicare Victoria, one of the Victoria’s largest child and family welfare organisations.

He is also experienced in managing non-financial functions such as Property and Vehicle infrastructure, Human Resources, and Information Technology.

Sherif joined the Board in 2020. He has over 25 years of extensive experience in strategic planning and decision making, leading digital transformation, information technology, merchandise planning and supply chain operations in the retail and consumer goods industries across a number of geographies and cultures. He brings to Spectrum a high-level of skills as an effective 'bridge’ between the strategic and the operational as well as a more holistic view of the customer needs. Sherif currently holds both a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Administration and Management.

"My father, a migrant from Egypt himself, dedicated much of his time to assisting other migrants to settle into Australia and so I can appreciate from personal experience the need for the work that Spectrum performs."

Joining the Spectrum Board in 2021, Maria is currently Special Adviser, Multicultural Communities for the Department of Justice and Community Safety. Gender equality, diversity and inclusion, and policy development are a few of the areas of expertise that Maria brings to the Spectrum Board.

Outstanding facilitator and communicator, Maria has the ability to captivate her audience while addressing complex social issues. Maria has also had broad experience in policy formulation for the Government sector, research for social planning and community education.

Two major highlights of Maria’s career include being appointed by the Federal Government to the National Council to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children in 2008, and subsequently being tasked with the development and distribution of a National Plan of Action. In 2012, she was appointed by the Federal Minister for Multicultural Affairs to the Access and Equity Inquiry panel to conduct an inquiry into Australian Government services to ensure they are responsive to the needs of Australians from CALD backgrounds.

Martina joined the Board in 2021. As a Senior Government Advisor and graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Martina brings to Spectrum deep governance expertise together with a strong passion for community engagement.

Martina started her career in Australia as a skilled migrant, establishing a high-quality cabinetmaking business and training many young people in her craft. Her entrepreneurial acumen and strategic leadership led to business success, evidenced by multiple awards and induction into the Businesswomen’s Hall of Fame.

Building on her business career to become a respected advisor, board director and committee member, Maria has a deep appreciation for the valuable role of migrants in the social fabric of Australia.