Katharine McLennan

Katharine McLennan is a keynote speaker, thought leader, People & Culture executive, consultant, coach, and psychotherapist with over three decades of experience across more than 50 organisations spanning every sector of the economy.

In the C-suite, Katharine has led the People & Culture functions at Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Cochlear on a global scale. She also founded the Global Leadership Academy for QBE Insurance Group.

As a trusted advisor, Katharine integrates strategy with psychology to create impactful solutions. Her consulting work includes engagements with Booz & Co, Heidrick & Struggles, and PwC, supporting a diverse range of clients.

Renowned for her ability to anticipate the future and translate visionary thinking into practical execution, Katharine honed this skill during her tenure as Head of Operational Planning for the Sydney 2000 Olympics from 1996 to 2000.

Her academic achievements include a BA with highest honours in Neuroscience and History (Duke University), an MA in Political Science (UNSW), and an MBA with highest honours (Stanford University).

Deeply concerned about the declining mental health of leaders, Katharine is also a clinical psychotherapist.