Philanthropy Australia farewells Adam Ognall

One of Victoria’s major private philanthropic Foundations, the Gandel Foundation, has appointed Adam Ognall as the organisation’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Adam Ognall joins Gandel Foundation from Philanthropy Australia, the national peak body for philanthropy, where he is currently Executive Director, Partnerships and Practice.

Adam is a values-led leader with deep experience in philanthropy in the UK, Israel and Australia. Before moving to Australia in 2021, he was CEO of the New Israel Fund in the UK and prior to that Deputy Chief Executive of UK Sustainable Investment & Finance. In his recent roles, his experience has spanned philanthropic practice, partnership development, grant making, communications and public affairs.

Founder and Chair, John Gandel AC said: “Adam is a committed, passionate and empathetic leader with strong moral values and a strong history of philanthropy. We look forward to his contribution to the Foundation.”

Adam Ognall said: “It is a true honour to be joining the Gandel Foundation. I look forward to working with John Gandel, the trustees, team and partners to build upon on its incredible legacy of giving and community impact.”

Melbourne’s Gandel family has been committed to charitable works for over 50 years, supporting those in need in the community, with the aim of creating a positive and lasting difference in people’s lives and helping foster an inclusive and welcoming society for all.

Adam will join the Gandel Foundation on 30 April 2025.

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Adam has made a huge contribution to PA during his three years, and in that time he has held important leadership roles including Executive Director of Engagement, Acting CEO, and Executive Director of Practice and Partnerships.

He is respected both within and without the organisation for his warm relational style, great sense of humour and his supportive approach with fellow team members and sector colleagues. Not to mention his deep knowledge of the philanthropic sector, practice and its important contribution to the world.

While we are very sad to be losing Adam from PA, we are absolutely delighted that he will be making an ongoing contribution to the sector in this significant sector leadership role, at the helm of one of our most important foundations.

Adam will finish at PA on Thursday 10 April and take some school holiday time with his family before starting in the new role. We will be advertising the Executive Director of Practice and Partnership role next week.

Maree Sidey