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.
Rosemary Simper
Rosemary has over 20 years’ experience across communications, law enforcement, and marketing in both government and private sector. She holds a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) from the University of South Australia. Rosemary is Marketing Manager at Fivecast, where she combines operational insight with marketing expertise to promote technology that supports national security. She is passionate about empowering women in business.
General Board Member
Mimi Sim
Mimi is an experienced management accountant across industries. Mimi is a Fellow CPA and serves as councillor for CPA South Australia division. Mimi also holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Graduate Diploma in Business (Accounting). She is dedicated to empowering women in business through financial literacy and purposeful growth.
Treasurer
Mandy Azzam
Mandy is an operations and customer service leader with over 15 years’ experience driving performance, engagement, and service excellence across the financial and education sectors. Her strategic oversight ensures operational efficiency, compliance, and continuous improvement. Mandy is passionate about collaboration, leading teams to deliver exceptional customer outcomes. She holds a Bachelor of Management from the University of South Australia.
General Board Member
Katie Jansen
Katie brings over a decade of experience as a senior leader working across supply chain & procurement in the mining and construction industries. Recognised for her strategic leadership and sector expertise, she leads cross-functional teams and oversees nationwide distribution and inventory networks. Katie is deeply passionate about diversity and inclusion, championing initiatives that create welcoming and supportive workplaces.
General Board Member
Katarina Watkins
As a corporate & commercial solicitor Katarina brings expertise in governance, commercial transactions, director’s duties and risk management. Having worked with several non-profit organisations and charities Katarina is passionate about helping organisations build a strong legal and governance foundation. She is also passionate about building confidence within women in the professional workplace.
General Board Member
Gabriela Vasconcelos
Gabriela is a communications and marketing professional passionate about inclusion, storytelling, and community building. With over a decade of experience across the not-for-profit and consulting sectors, she brings a strategic lens and lived migrant experience to the Spence Club Board, championing visibility and leadership for South Australian women from all backgrounds.
General Board Member
Emma Dignon
Emma leads in the marketing, communications, public relations, and media industries holding over 8 years' experience across a diverse range of sectors, including agency, local government, education, state government, and Fortune 500 companies. She is passionate about sharing and embracing stories, actively creating opportunities for women's leadership, and supporting South Australia’s arts and creative industries.
General Board Member
Brittany Duregon
Brittany is a Senior Associate at Mellor Olsson Lawyers, where she specialises in complex medical negligence and motor vehicle accident claims. She is committed to guiding and supporting clients through the challenges of life altering injuries. Brittany holds a Bachelor of Laws and Commerce (Management) from the University of Adelaide, and a Masters of Legal Practice from the Australian National University.
General Board Member
Alexandra Beal
Alex brings over 5 years of experience in the legal industry, currently working in commercial and civil litigation. She works with a variety of clients throughout the private and public sectors to navigate and resolve commercial disputes, with a particular focus on media, intellectual property, administrative law, competition and consumer protection. Alex is passionate about creating meaningful connections and mentorship for women within professional industries.
Secretary
Jade Wright
Jade brings 18 years experience in banking & financial services, specialising in Agribusiness across SA/NT. A dedicated leader championing equality & inclusion within agricultural sectors, her commitment to empowering women is reflected through advocacy, mentorship, & involvement with organisations developing leadership. Additionally, Jade is a judge for the Food SA Awards, recognising excellence in the primary producer category.
Deputy Chairperson
Paula Jacques
Paula b over a decade of experience in operations, sales, marketing & diverse projects. Leveraging her extensive background across various industries & departments, she delivers exceptional people experiences and facilitates seamless change adoption in digital transformation projects as a Change Consultant through SynergyIQ. Paula infuses great energy into her work, builds strong relationships and enhances communication between teams.
General Board Member
Charlene McGrath
With a rich background in education, change management, and community engagement, Charlene champions diversity and growth among women leaders. She has 20 years of experience across STEM, education, community, emergency services, and defence. Her leadership, passion for inclusivity & dedication to empowering women are invaluable assets to the club's mission.
General Board Member
Beth Shimmin
Beth has over 14 years’ experience working in marketing, communications and project management roles across the tertiary education, arts and private sectors. Currently a Strategic Projects Manager at Adelaide University, 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.