Regeneration is essential at any organisation, and the Ross Trust is excited to embrace some changes at the top, as we set our granting focus for the next 12 months.

We are proud to announce that Meghan Weekes has been appointed as Executive Officer, building on the six years she has been with the trust, most recently serving as Senior Program Manager. She brings a wealth of experience in grantmaking, communications, and sector engagement and has been instrumental in shaping our current strategic direction. 

The transition of the role from CEO to Executive Officer is strategic, reflecting our current scale, priorities and the agile governance model we are embracing for the future. Meghan will commence in the role on Tuesday, September 23 2025.

 “I’m honoured to take on the role of Executive Officer,” Meghan said. “I care deeply about the trust’s mission and the people we serve, and I look forward to stewarding our work with care, clarity, and a continued focus on impact.” 

Meghan takes over from departing CEO Sarah Hardy, who is leaving to become deputy CEO of Philanthropy Australia – a position in which we wish her every success, and know she will continue to make an impact on a national level. 

Sarah led the Ross Trust for almost eight years, with distinction, integrity and deep commitment to the causes we seek to impact. Her leadership has been instrumental in amplifying our impact and guiding us through periods of meaningful transformation. The Ross Trust’s maturity and impact as an organisation has benefited immensely from Sarah’s deep knowledge of, and passion for, the philanthropic sector.

“It has been a privilege to lead the Trust. I’m proud of all we’ve achieved together, and I have complete confidence in Meghan as she steps into this next chapter of leadership,” Sarah said. 

The Trust has also welcomed two new trustees, Carolyn Ireland and Annemarie Rolls, who are set to bring fresh energy and impressive skillsets, having commenced as Trustees on 1 July 2025.

Carolyn offers vast experience in financial management, investment strategy and governance to the Trust, as a finance audit, risk and investment specialist, both in the corporate sphere and the not-for-profit sector. 

 She is enthused by the Ross Trust’s trust-based approach to grantmaking, led by the emphasis on supporting children, regional and community-led solutions, and tackling disadvantage. 

 “I’m excited to join,” Carolyn said. “I’m going to learn a lot from the other trustees and exploring the remit of what organisations the Trust chooses to partner with through its grantmaking.”

Annemarie brings many years of leadership experience across the creative sector, stakeholder engagement, education, and governance. Her expertise will be invaluable as we continue to support both proven and innovative education models, with a strong focus on ensuring equitable access for young people facing challenges that impact their ability to learn and thrive.

 “The Ross Trust is in a unique position to have a long-term impact on its areas of focus,” she said. “I’m looking forward to bringing my knowledge and commitment to helping the Trust navigate its future.”