In Episode 52, “Selfish Happiness”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to 2011 Australian of the Year, Simon McKeon AO. Simon is currently Chancellor of Monash University and Non-Executive Director of National Australia Bank Ltd and Rio Tinto Group. He previously served as Chairman of AMP Ltd and CSIRO and was Founding President of the Federal Government’s Australian Takeovers Panel. Simon has had a long and passionate involvement with non-profit organisations, including serving as Chairman of MS Research Australia, Independent Schools Victoria, In2Science, Summer Housing, South East Melbourne and the Australian Industry Energy Transitions Initiative.
In a candid conversation, Greg and Simon discuss the fast-forwarding of change brought about by COVID-19, from the banking sector to education and how young people can adapt and thrive in the new era. An avid sportsman, Simon translates lessons from the fast-paced arena of sailing, where he held the outright world sailing speed record for many years, to the Boardroom, in embracing innovation and the power of diversity. Finally, Simon brings to the fore why selfishness and philanthropy go hand in hand and he shines a light on the champions of the non-profit sector, whose passion and devotion in making a positive difference to people’s lives make them our unsung heroes.

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