Introduce yourself
I’m Abigail (Abi) Cheadle, a Chartered Accountant and professional Non-Executive Director with more than 30 years’ experience working in Australia, Asia, the Middle East and Europe across listed companies, government bodies and global professional services firms specialising in growth and risk management across a wide range of businesses and on projects for multinational corporations and banks. I currently serve on four ASX-listed boards. I have been on 10 ASX- listed boards in total: two as Chair, seven as Audit & Risk Committee Chair, and once as Remuneration & Nominations Committee Chair.
Tell us about your career journey and what has led you to this role
My career began in professional services, where I specialised in complex restructurings and turnaround situations across Asia. That work exposed me early to boards, lenders and government stakeholders, and I became fascinated by preserving and creating value.
After making partner, I moved into executive leadership and later into board roles, including listed companies and government entities.
You’ve been in director-related roles for over 30 years now – what were some of the obstacles you have overcome during this time?
Early in my career, I worked extensively across different jurisdictions and cultures, which required resilience and adaptability.
Another obstacle was learning to back my own judgement earlier. Building confidence and being prepared to have respectful but robust conversations was an important shift.
Do you have any advice for women who are looking to advance their careers?
Be deliberate about building both capability and credibility. Do the hard work to become technically strong in your field – that foundation matters enormously.
At the same time, don’t underestimate the importance of visibility and relationships. Put your hand up for stretch opportunities, seek feedback, and find sponsors (not just mentors) who will advocate for you when you’re not in the room.
And perhaps most importantly – don’t self-select out too early. If you meet most of the brief, back yourself.
What progress have you seen for women in the workplace during your career?
The progress has been meaningful. When I started, female representation in senior leadership and on boards was very limited, and the conversation about diversity was far less developed.
Today, there is much greater awareness, stronger pipelines of capable women, and more structured pathways into leadership and board roles.
Who are the women who have inspired you most in your life or career?
I’ve been fortunate to work alongside many exceptional women, in fact I named my daughter after one. But particularly those who combined commercial sharpness with quiet confidence and generosity toward others coming through.
I’m especially inspired by women who lead with both courage and pragmatism – those who make tough calls when needed but bring others with them.
Can you tell us about a time when someone gave you advice that elevated your career – or when you have done the same for someone else?
Early in my career, a senior partner gave me advice that stayed with me: “Propose a solution for any problem you identify.”
I’ve tried to pass that forward through mentoring and sponsorship.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It’s a moment to recognise the significant progress that has been made, but also to remain focused on the work still to be done to ensure equitable opportunity.
Importantly, it’s also about lifting as we climb, creating pathways, visibility and support for the women coming behind us. Real progress becomes sustainable when each generation actively supports the next.
