MILK CRATE THEATRE WELCOMES NEW BOARD CHAIR

Milk Crate Theatre is delighted to announce Susan Bannigan has been appointed as our new Board Chair.

Susan has joined Milk Crate Theatre having recently moved on from her position as CEO of the Westpac Foundation and Westpac Scholarship Trust where she worked closely with Westpac, community groups, social entrepreneurs and the business sector to support new innovations in addressing the complex issues of homelessness, long-term unemployment, social inclusion for refugees and those living with issues of mental health in communities across Australia. She has over 30 years’ experience in the financial services and philanthropic industries in Europe, Pacific and Australia. Susan’s former Board roles include Chair of the Business/Higher Education Round Table and Director of Variety NSW. She is a Chartered Accountant, member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Sydney.

Milk Crate Theatre CEO, Jodie Wainwright welcomes Susan to the Milk Crate Board.

"We are thrilled that Susan has joined the Milk Crate Board. She brings extensive leadership and governance experience from her distinguished career in banking and with the Westpac Foundation. Susan has been a long-term supporter and her skills will be of immense value to Milk Crate Theatre.”

The board and team look forward to working with Susan to realise our vision of effecting social change through the power of performance.

Susan will replace Michael Sirmai, who has been a member of the Milk Crate Board since 2013 and Board Chair since 2016. Michael will now step away from the Milk Crate Theatre Board but leaves the legacy of a strong organisation, ready to build their impact into the future.

“I would like to express our deepest appreciation for the contribution of the outgoing Chair, Michael Sirmai”, shares CEO, Jodie Wainwright

“Under Michael’s stewardship we have been able to navigate many of the challenges that faced small to medium arts organisations and come through the COVID pandemic in a strong position, poised for growth.

“During his period as Chair, we have created a new and sustainable business plan and structure. We have also invested in our Social Impact Framework, with a robust Theory of Change and have embedded impact measurement into the program design”

We thank Michael for his leadership and wish him well in his future endeavours.

Michael Sirmai shares, “I am absolutely delighted for someone of Susan’s experience and reputation to lead the Board over the company’s next phase. I look forward to seeing Milk Crate Theatre and all its artists continue to shine from a seat in the audience.”

Susan will commence her role as Board Chair effective from 9 August 2022.