John McLeod - Senior Research Consultant, Family Advisory and Philanthropic Services at JBWere 

John co-founded the JBWere Philanthropic Services in 2001. John produces the leading research reports into the trends in the for-purpose and philanthropy sectors. In 2013, John co-authored the Impact - Australia report with the Federal Government, highlighting the current practice and growth potential for Impact Investing. In 2017, John co-authored Growing Impact in New Zealand, released at the Social Enterprise World Forum held in Christchurch. John has also produced the following research insights:

• The Cause Report (2016); examining the evolving shape of the for-purpose sector in Australia;
• The Support Report (2018); focusing on the dramatic trends occurring in Australian giving and the implications for recipients over the coming decade;
• The Corporate Support Report (2022); the evolution of corporate giving and community investment in Australia;
• John also compiles the list of Australia's major philanthropists for the Australian Financial Review's (AFR) annual special, Philanthropy 50; and the list of Australia's top 50 companies for corporate community investment published in the AFRs Boss magazine. John also serves as a Non-Executive Director Liverty Housing and Non-Executive Director Philanthropy Australia.

Karen McComiskey - Chief of Private Funding at World Vision

With 20 years' experience in fundraising, philanthropy and NFP leadership, Karen is an experienced Board Director, NFP CEO and former Chair of Fundraising Institute Victoria. Karen's formal studies include an MBA, Doctor of Business Leadership, she is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), and Fellow Certified Leadership Practitioner. She is a Global Gallup Coach, Certified EQ Practitioner and Facilitator of The Leadership Challenge.

Heather Kent - CEO at St Vincent de Paul Society (TAS) 

Heather is a proud Tasmanian who has spent considerable time living and working in a range of locations across the state. Heather holds a Bachelor of Commerce with Honours from the University of Tasmania and is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Heather has built grass-roots knowledge of the needs and challenges faced across the state through roles upon several boards including the Tasmanian Community Fund, Primary Health Tasmania and also as a lay member of the Legal Profession Board of Tasmania. Most recently, Heather has been CEO of the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation for over a decade before stepping into the role with St Vincent de Paul Society. 

Wayne Green - Director of Engagement (VIC & TAS) at Philanthropy Australia

Wayne is a philanthropy strategist and innovator with expertise in advancing social change and maximising the impact of wealth distribution. With a dynamic background in international strategy and organisational change, philanthropic resource development, and partnership facilitation, Wayne has significantly influenced philanthropic and community landscapes. Wayne offers a unique global perspective on advancing social impact and promoting trust-based philanthropy, changemaking and organisational growth.