Marianne Perkovic: From Banking Executive to Fashion Industry Leader

Marianne Perkovic, a former banking executive, now serves as the executive chair of the Australian Fashion Council (AFC), a role that includes overseeing Australian Fashion Week (AFW).

A Distinguished Career in Finance

Perkovic's career primarily involved finance. She became the youngest female chief executive of an ASX-listed company at Count Financial Limited in 2006. She held senior positions at Commonwealth Bank, including general manager of Commonwealth Private.

In 2018, she appeared before the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry concerning issues related to fees for no service. She departed Commonwealth Bank in 2020, subsequently consulting for KPMG and joining various finance-focused boards.

Transition to the Australian Fashion Council

In 2023, Perkovic transitioned to the fashion industry by becoming the executive chair of the AFC.

The AFC, a not-for-profit membership organization, plays a significant role in the Australian economy. It contributes over $27.2 billion annually and focuses on worker and sustainability issues within the fashion and textile sector.

Leading Australian Fashion Week

Following the withdrawal of IMG, the long-term operator of AFW, in November 2024, Perkovic and the AFC assumed responsibility for organizing the event. The AFC was appointed the official organizer with support from the NSW government.

This year, AFW will relocate from Carriageworks to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) on Sydney Harbour. This strategic move was inspired by a previous Carla Zampatti runway show held outside the MCA.

Strategic Vision for the Fashion Industry

Perkovic's strategic approach is noted by industry figures like Kellie Hush, AFW's fashion director. Beyond AFW, Perkovic's priorities for the AFC include collaborating with Austrade to develop new markets for designers, educating consumers about the value of local manufacturing, and promoting women into senior leadership roles within the industry.