International Business School Scholarship
A scholarship opportunity was provided with the support of Natixis Investment Managers and State Street. Applications opened 25 March and closed on 15 May. The scholarship will be presented at CIO Forum Dinner on 4 June 2026.
Presented in partnership with
About the International Business School Scholarship
The International Business School Scholarship provides a current or aspiring Chief Investment Officer or equivalent with an education bursary of $30,000 to be used to fund travel to and participation in a leadership development course at an international business school of the recipient's choice.
“I recently attended an INSEAD program in Singapore, supported by the FEAL International Business School Scholarship.
It was a truly transformative experience: The program provided exceptional learning opportunities - on strategy, sustainability and leadership - and I can see so much application and potential in my work. The on-site immersive structure not only encouraged deep learning and reflection, but also allowed me to make new diverse networks and friendships.
It was truly inspiring - and I am so grateful. Thank you to FEAL for investing in my development, and supporting initiatives that strengthen leadership within our industry. I look forward to contributing these learnings back into the sector.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Applications for the next scholarship will open in March 2027.
Eligibility
Current and aspiring CIOs, including Heads of asset classes in larger funds.
What is the selection panel looking for?
The selection panel is looking for concise, relevant and informative responses to the questions posed in the application form. In a two or three paragraph response provide a strong ‘business case’ as to why you should receive a scholarship this year. Consider what courses are available and identify one that would assist you in your current role, in meeting your professional and career goals, and/or in achieving specific KPIs. Try to be spcific, clear and direct and help the selection panel understand how the scholarship opportunity would be helpful to you.
Who is on the selection panel?
Your application will be treated with the strictest confidence at all times by our selection panel:
Steve Hill, Aware Super & FEAL director
Belinda Ray, AustralianSuper & FEAL director
Louise Watson, Natixis Investment Management
Tim Helyar, State Street
Chris Wildman, Robeco
Key dates to remember
Applications opened 25th March and closed on 15th May 2026. The scholarship will be presented at CIO Forum Dinner on 4 June 2026. The next scholarship will open for applications in March 2027.
I have submitted an application previously but was not successful – should I apply again?
Former applicants are encouraged to reapply. Review your previous scholarship application and consider how you could improve it. Ensure the question responses reflect your current thoughts and needs.
I am not a FEAL member. Can I still apply?
The ability to receive FEAL scholarships is one of the benefits of FEAL membership. If you are not currently a member of FEAL then why not apply for membership and a scholarship at the same time. All FEAL members, whether new or existing, are eligible to receive a Scholarship. Click here for membership details.
-
I had the pleasure of attending the "Authentic Leader Development" program at Harvard University a few weeks ago, with the goal of becoming a more effective leader. I met inspiring people from all around the globe with similar aspirations to me – to learn more about oneself, to better connect with people, to be more self-aware and importantly self-accepting and, to find one’s purpose and align with it. My key takeaways were:
Leadership is what happens in another human being when they’re around you
What am I doing to create an emotional bank account with the people around me?
You don’t have to be perfect to be unbelievable
Decide, don’t slide
How do I show up?
If you want to connect with someone, listen
Whose needs am I meeting when having a difficult conversation?
How do you manage a high need for achievement personality?
These valuable insights (and there were many others) from Professor Tom DeLong are helping me reflect and assess areas of self-improvement. Personal growth is a journey not a destination.
Past Winners
2025 - Sonya Sawtell-Rickson, HESTA
2024 - Andrew Howard, Equip Super
2023 - Dominique d’Avrincourt, TelstraSuper
2022 - Simon Esposito, REST Industry Super
2021 - Justine O’Connell, AustralianSuper
2020 - Spiro Deftereos, HOSTPLUS
2019 - Ruwanie Dias, Commonwealth Bank Group Super
2018 - Damian Graham, StatePlus
2017 - Andrew Spence, Qantas Superannuation Ltd
2016 - Matthew Condon, Rio Tinto
Previous courses undertaking by recipients:
AVIRA (Awareness, Vision, Imagination, Role, Action) program, INSEAD
Authentic Leader Development program, Harvard
Executing Strategy for Results module of the FEAL/MBS Masters of Organisational Leadership held at the London Business School (next opportunity for this module will likely be September 2028)
High Impact Leadership program, INSEAD
Strategic Decision Making for Management, LSE
Advanced Leadership course, LSE
Terms and Conditions
Applications received after the specified deadline will not be considered
The decision of the selection panel is final and no subsequent correspondence will be entered into
The International Business School Scholarship is open to FEAL members only. Non-members who are executives from profit-to-member funds are eligible to apply for individual executive membership of FEAL so that they can submit a scholarship application
Applicants must be employed with their fund at the time of the scholarship
Chosen course will be taken within 2 years of award of the scholarship
Successful applicants may be called upon to deliver a report to the sponsors of the scholarship
FEAL Directors are not eligible to apply
The scholarship covers airfares, accommodation and tuition up to a maximum of $30,000 (travel expenses and costs outside this must be covered by the recipient)