Leadership & Governance

Guided by experience. United by purpose. Our team bring deep expertise across Defence, technology, and national security sectors ensuring the Group delivers with integrity, precision, and foresight.

The leadership team drives the strategic and operational direction of Sovereign Capability Group, ensuring delivery across the Group’s companies and domains. Together, they translate vision into action — aligning technology, partnerships, and people to create capability that endures.

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    Diane Smith-Gander

    Board Chair

    Diane is Chair of Sovereign Capability Group. Diane is a past President of Chief Executive Women and held senior roles in banking, including head of Westpac’s Business and Technology Solutions and Services Division.  She is Chancellor of the University of Western Australia, chairs multiple Boards including SCG, Zip Co, HBF and Perenti and was previously a Partner in McKinsey & Company’s North American practice.

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    Andrew Buttsworth

    Managing Director

    A former RAAF fast-jet pilot, Andrew has held senior roles spanning government, banking, and technology sectors. His experience includes serving as Chief of Staff to the Minister for Defence, leading Federal Government banking at Westpac, and driving growth and strategy at innovative fintech and defence technology companies across Australia. 

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    Jason York

    Chief Financial Officer

    Jason brings extensive experience leading businesses through growth and change, with a strong focus on governance, commercial discipline, and sustainable performance. His career spans ASX-listed companies, US multinationals, and Asia-Pacific operations. Jason combines strategic insight with practical financial management to drive resilience, innovation, and long-term success at Sovereign Capability Group.

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    Sawsan Bassal

    Chief of Staff

    Sawsan has multisectoral experience across agriculture, utilities, infrastructure, and financial services. Her senior roles include Group Executive, Strategy & Corporate Affairs at Ventia, Chief Corporate Affairs & Marketing Officer at Insignia Financial and General Manager at AustralianSuper. She holds qualifications in science, environment, sustainability, business, and law, including a Juris Doctor and MBA from RMIT University. 

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    Jim Bancroft

    Chief Growth Officer

    A former Army officer, Jim commanded a multinational Brigade in East Timor and served as Commandant of the Australian Command and Staff College. His corporate experience includes Director of Strategy and Business Development for Northrop Grumman Australia and Director Strategy, Hanwha Defence Australia. He holds a Master of Public and International Law from Melbourne University. 

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    Joseph Ritchie

    Electrotech Australia

    Joseph Ritchie is Executive Director at Sovereign Capability Group and Managing Director of Electrotech Australia. A qualified CPA with over 15 years in senior leadership across Rabobank, Westpac, GE Capital, and NAB, he brings deep expertise in governance, risk management, and strategic improvement. Joseph serves on multiple boards, guiding operational excellence and sustainable growth across defence, shipping, and real estate.

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    Martin Sharman

    The Network

    Martin co-founded The Network in 2013, building it into an award-winning recruitment agency specialising in emerging technology. With IT recruitment experience since 2007, he combines trusted advisory recruiting in disruptive technologies with agility to evolve alongside a rapidly changing market. As a thought leader, Martin drives innovation, growth, and a thriving workplace culture with high-performing staff positively engaged in The Network's values. 

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    Brad Collins

    Insitec

    Brad partners with the CEO and Sovereign Capability Group leadership team to drive business growth and client success. He’s focused on two key drivers: building capable, committed teams and earning lasting client trust. With a passion for empowering high-performing people, Brad fosters a culture where individuals thrive and services deliver meaningful, measurable results. 

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