Shemara Wikramanayake is a highly respected Australian business executive and a global leader in infrastructure investment and sustainable finance. As the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Macquarie Group, Shemara has pioneered the company’s growth into a world-leading global asset manager with a strong focus on climate-conscious investing.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1962 in England to Sri Lankan parents, Shemara moved to Australia as a teenager. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), graduating in 1985. Committed to continual leadership development, she completed the prestigious Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School in 1996.
Professional Journey at Macquarie Group
Shemara joined Macquarie Group in 1987, embarking on a distinguished career spanning over three decades. She held senior roles across Asia, North America, and Australia, helping establish Macquarie’s presence in new markets including New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Malaysia.
Her leadership in Macquarie Asset Management, overseeing a global team of 1,600 professionals across 24 markets, laid the foundation for her appointment as CEO in December 2018—the first woman to hold this position in Macquarie’s history.
Leadership and Vision
Under Shemara’s stewardship, Macquarie Group has expanded its assets under management to over $775 billion, solidifying its status as a global infrastructure powerhouse. She is known for her strategic vision that blends profitability with sustainability, championing investments in renewable energy, green infrastructure, and climate adaptation projects.
Commitment to Climate Action and Sustainable Finance
Shemara Wikramanayake is a prominent advocate for climate finance and global sustainability initiatives. Her leadership roles include:
- Commissioner of the World Bank’s Global Commission on Adaptation, advancing climate resilience worldwide.
- Founding CEO of the United Nations Climate Finance Leadership Initiative (CFLI), mobilizing private capital for climate mitigation.
- Driving Macquarie’s transition to low-carbon investments including solar, wind, and hydrogen energy projects.
Awards and Recognition
Shemara’s influence and achievements have been widely recognized internationally:
- Ranked 9th on Fortune’s 2023 Most Powerful Women list.
- Consistently featured among Forbes’ Most Powerful Women in the World.
- Named Business Person of the Year 2021 by the Australian Financial Review.
Personal Life
Shemara resides in Sydney with her husband, Ed Gilmartin, a fellow finance professional, and their two children. Her multicultural background and global experience have shaped her inclusive leadership style and commitment to diversity.
Why Shemara Wikramanayake is a Leading Voice in Business and Sustainability
Shemara exemplifies the new generation of CEOs who prioritize both financial success and social responsibility. Her forward-thinking approach and unwavering focus on sustainable investment make her a key influencer in the evolving landscape of global finance.
