Caroline’s career path has taken unexpected turns, yet her journey stands as a compelling testament to the power of passion and perseverance. At Equip Super, Caroline serves as Relationship Manager, overseeing defined benefit fund portfolios and guiding employers through their complexities. Her role blends strategic insight with empathy, as she leads seminars, facilitates one-on-one member sessions, and champions the Women and Super program.

Caroline’s superannuation journey began in 2004, when she made the leap from insurance and finance to superannuation, with limited knowledge of the industry. Beginning at the Mercer Helpline, Caroline thought Financial Services would be a short side step until she found something she was really interested in; however she soon discovered that, rather than something like fashion, her passion was instead for helping members have the best possible retirement outcome. Caroline spent a number of years working part-time while caring for her children, and found that the lack of flexibility and support for working mothers had a significant impact on her career trajectory.

The lack of support and being overlooked for promotions as a direct consequence of her parenting responsibilities, led a pivot out of finance to fashion and puppeteering, but she could not resist the pull of her passion for superannuation. Her years at Vic Super, where she actively embraced the Super Woman Money program, further cemented her commitment to financial education. During the pandemic, Caroline explored diversity and inclusion consulting, which has since enriched her perspective and leadership style, steering her to her current role at Equip Super.

Caroline has been a dedicated member of WIS for over a decade, initially through a corporate membership and now as an individual member. She credits WIS’s events with providing valuable networking opportunities, as well as an invaluable sense of community and support. A standout experience for Caroline was our recent Women in Super Conference, where the speakers’ insights and the vulnerability shared by fellow women left a lasting impression.

For Caroline, success isn’t defined by accolades or titles, but by the ability to find joy and purpose in her work while making a difference, not just at work, but in all aspects of her  life. She acknowledges that her path hasn’t always been smooth, particularly with the challenges of working part-time for 13 years. However, with a renewed focus on flexibility in the workplace, she is optimistic about the future.

As a strong advocate for open and honest dialogue, Caroline is especially passionate about new initiatives within Equip Super’s Women and Super program. She is currently focusing on two critical yet previously under-discussed issues: domestic violence and menopause. By creating safe, supportive spaces for these conversations, Caroline aims to challenge stigma and ensure that women feel seen, heard, and supported at every stage of life.

Caroline’s story is a powerful reflection of what it means to lead with both heart and purpose. From navigating the complexities of defined benefit funds to creating safe spaces for women to talk about life’s most challenging transitions, her career has been guided by a deep commitment to helping others. Whether through financial education, advocacy, or community-building, Caroline has carved out a path that’s as meaningful as it is impactful. Her journey reminds us that success isn’t always linear; but when passion meets purpose, it can lead to a career that uplifts not only ourselves, but the people around us.