In preparation of its “next stage of growth”, Synergy Group has overhauled the corporate governance of its board of directors, bringing in independent directors to inject an external perspective into its strategic decision-making.
Having grown by an average of 30% per annum over the past ten years, Synergy Group this year broke through the milestone of 600 employees. The growth has seen the Canberra-headquartered group solidify its position as one of Australia’s leading management consulting firms for the public sector.
As part of its ambition to continue its growth and impact, Synergy Group earlier this year launched a strategic review process. “The review helped us assess the requirements needed in order to successfully position ourselves for our next growth phaase,” said Chairman of Synergy Group, Robert Kennedy.
One of the recommendations which come out of the review was to finetune the firm’s top-level corporate governance. This included more clearly ringfencing the roles & responsibilities of shareholders, the board, the chief executive, and the partnership group; adopting a governance charter; and introducing independent directors to the board in addition to the major shareholders.
“We’re honoured that Lucille Halloran and Martin Bowles have agreed to join the Synergy Group board as independent directors who will help guide and drive the future direction of the firm,” said Kennedy.
Lucille Halloran comes with a vast international career with global consulting firms Deloitte, where she served as a partner, and EY, where she latterly was the firm’s Asia-Pacific Leader for the Government and Public Sector verticals. In addition to her role with Synergy Group, Halloran contributes at Board level to Calvary Health Care, Cornerstone Capital, and the Canberra Symphony Orchestra.
Commenting on her appointment, Halloran said: “Over the past two years as advisor to Synergy Group, I have witnessed firsthand the extent to which Synergy Group is true to its purpose and values – caring for its people, the clients they serve and the community within which they reside. I’m delighted with the opportunity to continue with the board in setting the direction and shaping its future.”
Martin Bowles is an Australian healthcare executive, and former senior public servant. He is currently the national CEO of Calvary Health Care and was previously Secretary of the Department of Health (2014–17) and the Department of Immigration (2012–14) in the Australian public service.
Bowles commented: “It’s a wonderful opportunity to join Synergy Group. It puts its people first and provides a unique perspective on complex strategy and policy challenges. I look forward to working with the team to help set the direction for the future of the company.”
The full line-up of Synergy Group’s board is: Rob Kennedy (Executive Chairman), Mark Pattrick (Executive Director), Pat Quade (the founder of Synergy Group; now a Non-Executive Director), Lucille Halloran (Non-Executive Director), Martin Bowles (Non-Executive Director), and Toni Marzulli (Chief Executive Officer with non-voting rights in the board).
Sourced from Consultancy.com.au