We are run by a talented volunteer Board of Directors, made up of professional women from a range of industries who offer their time and expertise to bring to life the vision of Spence Club.
Monique Hapgood
Monique is an arts manager and practitioner with over a decade’s experience using storytelling to create social impact. A proud Bunjalung woman, she centres collective well-being and cultural connection in all of her work. Currently, Monique serves as Acting General Manager of ActNow Theatre. Monique’s early career as a speech pathologist instilled in her a deep understanding of supporting autonomy and societal needs.
General Board Member
Jade Wright
Jade brings over 17 years of experience in banking and financial services, with a specialisation in agribusiness across South Australia and the Northern Territory. As a dedicated leader, she is passionate about advancing gender equality and fostering inclusion within both the corporate and agricultural sectors. Jade’s commitment to empowering women is reflected through her role in advocacy, mentorship, and her active involvement with organisations focused on women’s leadership. Additionally, she is a respected judge for the Food South Australia Awards, recognising excellence in the primary producer category.
Secretary
Paula Jacques
Paula brings over a decade of hands-on experience in operations, sales, marketing, and diverse projects. Leveraging her extensive background across various industries and departments, she excels in delivering exceptional people experiences and facilitating seamless change adoption in digital transformation projects as a Change Consultant through SynergyIQ. Passionate about people and a hugger by nature, Paula infuses great energy into her work, building strong relationships and enhancing communication between teams.
General Board Member
Charlene McGrath
With a rich background in education, change management, and community engagement, Charlene joins the Spence Club Board to champion diversity and growth among women leaders. She has two decades of experience across STEM, education, community, emergency services, and defence sectors. Her leadership, passion for inclusivity, and dedication to empowering women are invaluable assets to the club's mission.
General Board Member
Sara Siami
Sara, Founder of The People Plugin, melds 15+ years in People & Culture with a startup fervor. Dedicated to cultivating engaged teams, Sara envisions business triumph and human flourishing by guiding optimal employee experiences. A lifelong learner, she studied at Flinders, Monash, and the University of South Australia. Recently featured in the University of Adelaide leadership course, Sara was interviewed for South Australia's premier business and leadership podcast.
General Board Member
Beth Shimmin
Beth has over 12 years’ experience working in marketing, communications and project management roles across the tertiary education, arts and private sectors. Currently a Senior Communications & Project Specialist at the University of Adelaide, she has also won a netball premiership with the Adelaide Thunderbirds. Beth holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Adelaide and a Master of Marketing from the University of South Australia.
Chairperson
Alisa Burns
Alisa is an experienced Financial Adviser and owns her own holistic advice firm, Align Wealth. She has over 15 years’ experience supporting clients on their wealth journey, and holds a Bachelor of Commerce & Bachelor of Business (International Business) as well as being certified by the Responsible Investment Association of Australasia. She is passionate about supporting sustainability & gender balance in finance.
