36 CEOs and Managing Directors in South Australia

Updated 13 August 2026.

South Australia has a wide mix of employers, from energy and resources to hospitals, food, sport, water and advanced manufacturing. This list brings together 36 current CEOs, managing directors and executive directors whose organisations have a clear South Australian connection.

The point is to give leaders, job seekers and curious observers a useful starting point for understanding the people carrying responsibility across some of the state's most visible organisations.

Why these leaders are worth knowing

Good leadership looks different in a brewery, a hospital network, a football club and a space technology company. The useful question is often not who is most famous, but what kind of work the role requires, who the organisation serves and what the leader is trying to build.

The leaders

1. Kevin Gallagher

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Santos Limited

Kevin Gallagher is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Santos Limited. That makes Kevin a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Santos is headquartered in Adelaide and has an operating footprint beyond South Australia. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

2. Brett Woods

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Beach Energy Limited

Brett Woods is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Beach Energy Limited. That makes Brett a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Beach Energy is based in Adelaide and operates as an energy producer. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

3. Graeme Legh

Group Chief Executive Officer, Kelsian Group Limited

Graeme Legh is the Group Chief Executive Officer at Kelsian Group Limited. That makes Graeme a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Graeme Legh became Group CEO on 1 April 2025, and Kelsian has its registered office in Adelaide. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

4. Travis Beinke

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Australian Rare Earths Limited

Travis Beinke is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Australian Rare Earths Limited. That makes Travis a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Australian Rare Earths is advancing its Koppamurra project with a strong Limestone Coast connection. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

5. Larry Ingle

Chief Executive Officer, Iron Road Limited

Larry Ingle is the Chief Executive Officer at Iron Road Limited. That makes Larry a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Iron Road is focused on a large South Australian iron ore development opportunity. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

6. Matthew Bowles

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Indiana Resources Limited

Matthew Bowles is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Indiana Resources Limited. That makes Matthew a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Indiana Resources is advancing gold and rare earth projects in South Australia. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

7. Chris Stevens

Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Coda Minerals Limited

Chris Stevens is the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director at Coda Minerals Limited. That makes Chris a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Coda Minerals is developing the Elizabeth Creek project in South Australia. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

8. Alf Ianniello

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Codan Limited

Alf Ianniello is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Codan Limited. That makes Alf a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Codan is headquartered in South Australia and sells technology to global customers. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

9. Kingsley Hall

Chief Executive Officer, Micro-X Limited

Kingsley Hall is the Chief Executive Officer at Micro-X Limited. That makes Kingsley a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Micro-X has its manufacturing and operating base in Adelaide. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

10. Stuart Nicholls

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Elixir Energy Limited

Stuart Nicholls is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Elixir Energy Limited. That makes Stuart a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Stuart Nicholls brings listed energy development experience to Elixir Energy. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

11. Scott Lowe

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Magnetite Mines Limited

Scott Lowe is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director at Magnetite Mines Limited. That makes Scott a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Magnetite Mines is advancing its Razorback project in South Australia. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

12. Dr Colin Rose

Executive Chairman and Executive Director, Marmota Limited

Dr Colin Rose is the Executive Chairman and Executive Director at Marmota Limited. That makes Colin a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Marmota is a South Australian listed explorer where executive leadership sits close to exploration delivery. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

13. Duncan Chessell

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Copper Search Limited

Duncan Chessell is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director at Copper Search Limited. That makes Duncan a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Copper Search is focused on copper opportunities with a clear South Australian investment story. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

14. Wayne Champion

Chief Executive Officer, Riverland Mallee Coorong Local Health Network

Wayne Champion is the Chief Executive Officer at Riverland Mallee Coorong Local Health Network. That makes Wayne a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Wayne Champion leads a regional network of hospitals and health services across the Riverland, Mallee and Coorong. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

15. Rebecca Graham

Chief Executive Officer, Women's and Children's Health Network

Rebecca Graham is the Chief Executive Officer at Women's and Children's Health Network. That makes Rebecca a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Rebecca Graham has worked across every South Australian Local Health Network. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

16. Roger Kirchner

Chief Executive Officer, Yorke and Northern Local Health Network

Roger Kirchner is the Chief Executive Officer at Yorke and Northern Local Health Network. That makes Roger a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Roger Kirchner's network provides, administers and measures public health services across Yorke Peninsula and the Mid North. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

17. Kerrie Mahon

Chief Executive Officer, Southern Adelaide Local Health Network

Kerrie Mahon is the Chief Executive Officer at Southern Adelaide Local Health Network. That makes Kerrie a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Kerrie Mahon is leading a 2026 to 2028 programme of culturally safe care and reconciliation work. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

18. Angela McCabe

Chief Executive Officer, St Andrew's Hospital

Angela McCabe is the Chief Executive Officer at St Andrew's Hospital. That makes Angela a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Angela McCabe brings more than two decades of senior leadership across private and public hospital settings. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

19. Emma McCahon

Chief Executive Officer, Central Adelaide Local Health Network

Emma McCahon is the Chief Executive Officer at Central Adelaide Local Health Network. That makes Emma a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Emma McCahon leads the operational work of Central Adelaide Local Health Network health services. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

20. Bronwyn Masters

Chief Executive Officer, Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network

Bronwyn Masters is the Chief Executive Officer at Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network. That makes Bronwyn a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Bronwyn Masters leads a network with responsibility to its governing board across the Barossa, Hills and Fleurieu. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

21. Karen Puvogel

Chief Executive Officer, Northern Adelaide Local Health Network

Karen Puvogel is the Chief Executive Officer at Northern Adelaide Local Health Network. That makes Karen a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Northern Adelaide Local Health Network includes Lyell McEwin Hospital, Modbury Hospital and other health services. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

22. Craig Packard

Chief Executive Officer, Flinders and Upper North Local Health Network

Craig Packard is the Chief Executive Officer at Flinders and Upper North Local Health Network. That makes Craig a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Craig Packard leads a network serving hospital and health needs across the Flinders and Upper North region. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

23. Emma Poland

Chief Executive Officer, Limestone Coast Local Health Network

Emma Poland is the Chief Executive Officer at Limestone Coast Local Health Network. That makes Emma a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Limestone Coast Local Health Network spans public hospitals, health services and residential aged care. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

24. Julie Marron

Chief Executive Officer, Eyre and Far North Local Health Network

Julie Marron is the Chief Executive Officer at Eyre and Far North Local Health Network. That makes Julie a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Julie Marron leads a network covering a very large regional area and delivering hospital, community and aged care services. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

25. Brenton Cox

Managing Director, Adelaide Airport

Brenton Cox is the Managing Director at Adelaide Airport. That makes Brenton a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Brenton Cox joined Adelaide Airport in 2013 after executive work with Sydney Airport, Macquarie Airports and Macquarie Capital. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

26. Stewart Lammin

Chief Executive Officer, Flinders Port Holdings

Stewart Lammin is the Chief Executive Officer at Flinders Port Holdings. That makes Stewart a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Stewart Lammin spent six years as General Manager of Flinders Ports and worked across ports, shipbroking and container shipping. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

27. Michael Shearer

Managing Director, Coopers Brewery

Michael Shearer is the Managing Director at Coopers Brewery. That makes Michael a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Michael Shearer joined Coopers in 2004, became General Manager in 2018 and moved into the Managing Director role in 2025. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

28. David Ryan

Chief Executive, SA Water

David Ryan is the Chief Executive at SA Water. That makes David a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that SA Water serves more than 1.8 million customers, and David Ryan previously led City West Water. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

29. Craig Lockhart

Chief Executive, BAE Systems Australia

Craig Lockhart is the Chief Executive at BAE Systems Australia. That makes Craig a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Craig Lockhart helped establish continuous naval shipbuilding in Australia and reach the first steel cut milestone for the Hunter Class Frigate Program. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

30. Alex Walsh

Acting Chief Executive Officer, ASC

Alex Walsh is the Acting Chief Executive Officer at ASC. That makes Alex a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Alex Walsh brings close to 40 years of experience across the nuclear submarine and power sectors in the UK, France and Australia. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

31. Flavia Tata Nardini

Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Fleet Space Technologies

Flavia Tata Nardini is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder at Fleet Space Technologies. That makes Flavia a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Fleet Space is an Adelaide-based company focused on exploration technology, with Flavia Tata Nardini at its centre. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

32. Darren Thomas

Managing Director, Thomas Foods International

Darren Thomas is the Managing Director at Thomas Foods International. That makes Darren a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Thomas Foods International is a family-owned food business with operations in multiple countries and products reaching more than 85 countries. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

33. Roger Drake

Managing Director, Drakes Supermarkets

Roger Drake is the Managing Director at Drakes Supermarkets. That makes Roger a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Drakes expanded into Millicent in 2026 and supports local initiatives through its Community Dollars Programme. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

34. Tim Silvers

Chief Executive Officer, Adelaide Football Club

Tim Silvers is the Chief Executive Officer at Adelaide Football Club. That makes Tim a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Tim Silvers joined the Crows after 17 years at Hawthorn, most recently as Chief Operating Officer. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

35. Matthew Richardson

Chief Executive Officer, Port Adelaide Football Club

Matthew Richardson is the Chief Executive Officer at Port Adelaide Football Club. That makes Matthew a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Matthew Richardson is steering the 2026 coaching structure around Josh Carr at Port Adelaide. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

36. Professor Paul Flynn

Group Chief Executive Officer, The Hospital Research Foundation Group

Professor Paul Flynn is the Group Chief Executive Officer at The Hospital Research Foundation Group. That makes Paul a useful person to know for leaders watching how South Australian organisations turn purpose into daily decisions. The role carries responsibility for people, priorities and performance, with the exact shape of the work changing from sector to sector.

One detail worth noticing is that Paul Flynn has built a career across finance, social entrepreneurship and not-for-profit leadership. It gives a practical glimpse of the work behind the role and the kind of leadership context readers may want to explore further. Across this list, the common thread is practical responsibility at real scale, not a claim that every organisation works in the same way.

What this group shows

The people here work across very different settings, but several patterns stand out. Many roles sit close to essential services, long-term investment, public trust or the development of specialist capability. That means the leadership work is often less about having the loudest voice and more about keeping people aligned when the work is complex.

There is also a reminder that South Australian leadership is not one type of job. It includes running a utility, sustaining a hospital network, building ships, developing resources, growing food businesses, leading sporting communities and turning research into practical impact.

How to use this list

Use the list as a prompt for better questions. If you are hiring, ask what the organisation needs from its next leader. If you are building a career, notice the different paths into executive work. If you are leading now, look for the operating habits that fit your own context rather than copying a title.

FAQs

Is this a complete list?

No. It is a practical starting point across several important parts of South Australia's economy and community life. The state has many other capable leaders working in organisations that are not included here.

Will the list change?

Yes. Executive roles and organisations change over time, so a future edition may include different people and sectors.

Conclusion

South Australia has more leadership variety than a single industry lens can show. These 36 people offer a practical snapshot of the leaders responsible for organisations that employ, serve and shape communities across the state.

For a practical way to think about how people work together, see the Working Genius FAQ. You can also read about leadership in energy and utilities and leaders in asset management.

About the Author

Jonno White helps leaders build organisations people would move cities to work at. His work is practical rather than motivational, giving people something they can use on Monday morning, not a feeling that fades by Friday.

A practical next step.

If you are leading a South Australian organisation and want a practical way to strengthen trust, teamwork or leadership habits, email jonno@consultclarity.org. I will reply in writing with a useful next step.