CSC's chief risk and compliance officer wants to show that diversity in leadership is achievable
Earlier this week, Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation’s Nevein Versace told Australasian Lawyer what she intends to focus on as the organisation’s new chief risk and compliance officer. In the second part of this interview, she tells us what it’s like to be part of a leadership team where women are strongly represented.
You’ve held senior roles at Equity Trustees, HESTA, and AustralianSuper. What learnings from these roles do you plan to bring into your new position?
Each of those roles reinforced the importance of keeping members at the centre of every decision. I’ve also learned that strong governance and compliance are not about ticking boxes. They actually create the foundation for organisations to move faster and with more confidence and having the courage to make tough calls when needed. That balance of technical excellence, leading with confidence and pragmatic judgment is something I’ll continue to bring into my work at CSC.
What got you into law, and what’s your favourite part of being a legal professional?
I've always loved a challenge, being creative and untangling complexity. I was drawn to law because it combines solving real problems with the opportunity to make a practical difference. Practicing law gives me a way to do that while also supporting people and organisations through important decisions.
What I enjoy most is being a trusted adviser and sounding board, helping colleagues and the board to navigate difficult issues and find a path forward that feels both practical and principled.
What led you to go into in-house legal work?
Early in my career, I realised I wanted to be closer to the heart of decision-making, not just advising from the sidelines. In-house work allows you to see the bigger picture, to truly understand the business and its people, and to shape strategy rather than simply respond to it. It also means building long-term relationships where legal, risk, and compliance are part of the organisation’s DNA, not an afterthought.
Women comprise a significant chunk of the leadership at CSC – what does it mean to you to be one of those leaders, and what kind of impact do you hope it has on the profession?
It’s inspiring to be part of an organisation where women are strongly represented at the leadership table both in terms of the executive and the board. For me, it’s not just about representation but ensuring we can bring diverse perspectives to complex decisions, which ultimately leads to better outcomes for our members.
I hope our example at CSC shows that diversity in leadership is achievable and that it encourages more women in law, risk, and compliance to see leadership as something they can and should aspire to.
