Museums Invest in the Next Generation of Cultural Leaders, CAMD, 2 July 2026

Australia and New Zealand’s major museums are backing future leaders and the results speak for themselves.

The Council of Australasian Museum Directors (CAMD) has delivered its landmark Executive Mentoring Program, demonstrating measurable impact for 25 high-performing future museum leaders who were paired with some of the most experienced directors and cultural sector leaders across Australia and New Zealand.

CAMD Chair, and Director and CEO of the Australian Museum, Kim McKay AO, said the pipeline of future museum leaders has become increasingly important. The decisions made in our museums today will shape communities for generations and that demands exceptional leadership and insight.

“Mentors have played an important role throughout my career and they still do. You can’t underestimate the value of having a sounding board who has lived through the experience already and who can offer insights and advice in an independent and supportive way. Mentoring gives leaders the confidence to succeed,” Ms McKay said.

“Our museums are navigating increasing complexity while meeting the diverse and evolving needs of our communities. Building a strong leadership pipeline isn’t optional, it’s essential. The results of the CAMD program show that investment in people pays off,” she said.

Over ten months, 25 participants took part in leadership workshops, discussion forums, site visits and curated networking events, all designed to sharpen their strategic thinking, deepen sector knowledge and build the connections that matter. Participants reported improved performance, stronger professional networks, broader perspectives and greater clarity about their career pathways. Some were even promoted after completing the course.

The program culminated in a graduation ceremony at Melbourne Museum, bringing together participants, directors and peers to celebrate the achievements and cement the relationships built throughout the year. The program was developed and facilitated by leadership specialists McCarthy Mentoring, who delivered workshops, structured guidance, resources and tools throughout the 10 month program.

This initiative builds on CAMD’s earlier program with McCarthy Mentoring (2015–2019), which focused on advancing gender diversity and supporting women into executive leadership. Today, more than half of all CAMD Directors are women, a testament to the power of deliberate, sustained investment in people.

McCarthy Mentoring CEO Sophie McCarthy said it was a privilege to work with such an exceptional group.
“This cohort brought real dedication and openness to growth. The work they do in our cultural institutions matters and investing in their leadership is an investment in the communities those institutions serve,” she said.

The 2025/2026 mentees included: Michael Baldwin, Belinda Baur, Mark Bayliss, Lauren Bourke, Rebecca Britt, Eleanor Cave, Lucy Clark, Josef de Beer, Brenan Dew, Julie Ellmers, Vanessa Gardos, Angie Good, Mathew Le Breton Poll, Nanette Louchart-Fletcher, Megan O’Sullivan, Melanie Piddocke, Dr. Melanie Pitkin, Helen Privett, Zoe Richardson, Penny Russell, Hanna Scott, Steven Sparrey, Simon Wetherill, Leanne Woods and Bella Wren.