This week marks a change in the Bennelong Foundation’s journey. After more than seven years leading the Foundation, Sandra Jacobs is departing to commence a new role as CEO of the newly formed Self Determination Fund.
“During her time at the helm, Sandra has developed the Bennelong Foundation as a well-known and well-respected organisation in the philanthropic and corporate sectors,” said Carena Shankar, Chairperson of the Bennelong Foundation.
“She has brought her passion and care for community to the Foundation every single day. Hundreds of grassroots organisations have got the leg up they needed in their own growth journeys because of Sandra’s leadership.
“We are thrilled for Sandra and while we are sorry to lose her, we wish her every success in her new role.”
Stepping into the CEO role is Laura Cochrane. Laura joins from National Australia Bank, where she was responsible for the bank’s philanthropic portfolio, overseeing the NAB Foundation and volunteering and giving programs for the organisation’s 30,000 employees. Laura has previously held roles managing corporate communications at The Royal Bank of Scotland and NAB and worked as a journalist for Euromoney Institutional Investor and Bloomberg News in Australia and the UK.
“As the Bennelong Foundation is poised to enter a new era of growth, we are delighted to welcome Laura and excited at the prospect of her leading the Foundation towards its long-term goals.”
Photo: Left, Sandra Jacobs, outgoing Bennelong Foundation CEO. Right, Laura Cochrane, incoming Bennelong Foundation CEO.