Samantha Fernando
Samantha Fernando is a nationally recognised executive search leader and Public Sector Partner at Page Executive, based in Queensland. With more than 15 years of experience spanning policy, strategy, and senior leadership appointments, she has successfully placed Directors General, CEOs, CFOs, and CPOs across Australia and New Zealand. Samantha is known for delivering values‑led, transparent recruitment processes that consistently meet the highest standards of public accountability.
A specialist in executive advisory and leadership‑competency–based recruitment, Samantha combines deep sector insight with a rigorous, evidence‑driven methodology. She holds an MBA, along with bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Neuroscience, and has completed formal training in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency. Currently undertaking a PhD focused on unconscious bias in recruitment, she brings a research‑informed lens to inclusive talent acquisition and equitable assessment practices.
Respected for her strategic thinking, defensible processes, and nuanced understanding of public sector governance, Samantha is a trusted partner for complex, high‑stakes executive appointments. Her commitment to integrity, inclusivity, and measurable outcomes positions her as a leading advisor to organisations seeking exceptional public sector leadership.
Industry
Industry
- Public Sector & Not-For-Profit
- Professional Services & Consultancy
Function
Function
- CEO – Chief Executive Officer
- CFO & Financial Management
- CHRO – Chief Human Resources Officer
- CIO & IT Leadership
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Policy, Economics & Regulatory Affairs
Recent Track Record
- Director General - Queensland State Government (SES High)
- Executive Director - Policy - State Government (SES Low)
- Chief Executive - Regional Government Owned Food Retailer
- General Manager of People and Culture - Faith Based NFP (Regional NSW)
- Executive Directors - Multiple - Federal Government Organisation (First Nations)
- Head of Professional Learning - NFP Industry Body
- Chief Financial Officer - Federal Government Organisation
- Graduate Program - Federal Government Organisation
- Employer Branding Advisory - State Government Organisation
