In July 2011, Catriona Noble, Managing Director and CEO, McDonald’s Australia Limited and Mallesons Stephen Jaques Chief Executive Partner, Robert Milliner joined the Sydney office to discuss their experience within the Business Council of Australia, with a particular focus on the importance of mentoring in corporate Australia, and how this can support greater gender diversity and inclusion at leadership levels.
Catriona Noble joined McDonald’s as a 14-year old casual crew member and first made her mark in the business when she became the youngest ever female company restaurant manager at the age of 19. Catriona has since forged a successful career that culminated in her appointment to the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer for McDonald’s Australia in April 2010. Catriona was the first female in any of McDonald’s major markets around the world to be appointed Managing Director – and, prior to that, as Chief Operating Officer. Catriona was appointed to the Board of McDonald's Australia in 2007, and is the chair of the Ronald McDonald House Charities Board
Robert Milliner has been Chief Executive Partner of Mallesons Stephen Jaques for 7 years. Robert sits on the Board of the Business Council of Australia and Chairs the BCA's Business Reform Task Force. He also heads the Large Law Firm Group and is a board member of the Australian Charities Fund and the Australian Business and Community Network. Prior to his appointment as Chief Executive, Robert was the firm's Managing Partner (International) in Hong Kong, and a leading specialist in electricity, gas and project financing matters with extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, and commercial and major project financing.