Lead with purpose. Act with clarity. Deliver outcomes.

Nicole McMahon (GAICD) is a senior executive turned portfolio leader dedicated to helping organisations thrive in a rapidly changing world. Over a 20+ year career, Nicole built a reputation as a change-maker and trusted adviser in diverse sectors – from national security and government policy to healthcare and technology. She has served in C-suite and boardroom roles , notably as Board Chair of Painaustralia and Deputy Chair of the Australian Information Industry Association, where she led strategy and  governance initiatives and championed technology.

As Head of Federal Government and National Security at Telstra, Nicole identified capability gaps and led an approach to build capability to counter emerging cyber threats. Her ability to bridge public and private sectors was also evident as General Manager of 1800RESPECT (Medibank/Australian Government), where she led a high-profile national service delivering support to vulnerable people. Throughout her career, Nicole’s hallmark has been translating complex challenges – be it government policy, market disruption, or technological change – into actionable strategies and successful outcomes. 

Nicole's began her career as a scientist- focusing on cancer and HIV-Gene therapy. She pivoted to journalism and television producing before entering the field of ICT.

Today, Nicole is an executive who focuses on a portfolio career that blends her passions: leadership, governance, strategy advisory, and speaking. As a non-executive director, she contributes her extensive experience in governance, risk and strategy to help organisations navigate change, with special insight into areas like digital innovation, cybersecurity, and public policy. As an independent adviser, Nicole works with select clients to tackle transformative projects – from shaping go-to-market strategies in highly regulated markets, to facilitating multi-stakeholder collaborations for public benefit. She is also an accomplished public speaker and facilitator, bringing her real-world insights to conferences, executive workshops and media. 

Nicole is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and continually updates her knowledge through advanced executive education – including recent programmes in Cybersecurity (Harvard) and Artificial Intelligence for Business (INSEAD). Outside of her professional pursuits, she is an advocate for diversity and inclusive leadership and is a proud mother, and cancer survivor, believing that balance and well-being are vital to sustainable success.