We’re Queensland’s most respected and experienced leaders. Like you.
We are trusted advisors, sharing our knowledge and experiences in leadership, human capital and executive recruitment.
Born of Queensland. Bold by Design.
From the boardroom to the back office, we know what it takes for leaders to succeed.
Envision
We’re dedicated to connecting exceptional executives and emerging leaders with forward-thinking organisations ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world of work.
At Luminary, we believe great leadership doesn’t happen by chance; it happens through intention, insight, and connection.
We go further than other search firms, bringing depth, rigour, and humanity to every engagement. We listen harder, look deeper, and move faster to deliver unrivalled results.
Embed
We work as true partners, deeply invested in delivering an exceptional candidate experience and a high-touch, concierge-level service usually reserved for the most discerning clients.
We understand that every interaction, no matter how small, shapes a leader’s confidence, decision-making, and long-term success.
Our personalised, adaptive approach, grounded in care, precision, and local insight, is why Queensland’s most respected enterprises choose to partner with Luminary.
Enhance
Getting the best from your people at every level is the key to enduring competitive advantage.
At Luminary, we help organisations prepare for the rapidly evolving future of work through targeted development that unlocks potential, builds confidence, and drives measurable performance.
We partner with leaders and expert coaches to deliver tailored programs that create real, sustainable results for organisations, teams, and individual leaders alike.
“We had the pleasure of working with Luminary on a critical role that had previously been challenging for our organisation to fill. This was our first time partnering with Luminary, and we were very impressed with the professionalism, responsiveness, and adaptability throughout the process. The successful placement speaks for itself.”
— Chief Executive Officer, ASX-listed company
Get to know our team
We are proud to introduce you to Queensland's most trusted, respected and experienced advisors.
RUSSELL FAIRBANKS
Managing Director
“I would highly recommend Russell as a person you can trust to get the job done and keep you informed.”
-
With over 20 years in senior executive roles at leading global consulting firms, Russell founded Luminary in 2019 to provide leadership advisory services to Queensland's most respected organisations.
Russell is experienced at identifying leaders for positions such as
Chairperson and Non-Executive Directors.
Chief Executive Officers and Directors-General.
C-level executives (all disciplines)
Russell has managed senior executive mandates across utilities, education, community, government, public service and local government administration. He holds degrees from the University of Sussex and the University of London. He has professional qualifications in leadership and is a graduate of the AICD.
Russell is a non-executive director, has founded two businesses and is a regular presenter on workforce trends, leadership and organisational design, including a regular guest spot on Sky News Business and ABC Radio.
JANE ELLIS
Managing Partner,
Executive & Boards
“Jane was wonderful to deal with, pragmatic and brought us an excellent candidate pool.”
-
With over 20 years’ experience in talent acquisition, and executive search, Jane has worked in small, medium, and large enterprise businesses with a primary focus on executive search mandates and end-to-end talent acquisition.
She strives to deliver and execute talent strategies by creating genuine, meaningful, and impactful relationships with key stakeholders, colleagues, and candidates.
Jane leads c-suite assignments and holds operational responsibility for the consulting team.
MEGAN MAILMAN
Managing Partner,
HR Advisory
“Megan provided us with the clarity and steady guidance we needed during one of the most challenging situations our firm has faced.”
-
Megan is a co-owner of our specialist HR advisory business. As a former Head of Human Resources with the Bank of Queensland and QSuper she has a wealth of knowledge in consulting with private and public sector organisations.
She is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them design and implement practical people-focused solutions which have a real and positive impact on their business.
Megan specialises in organisational design, human resource capability, leadership development and coaching, as well as driving employee engagement and performance within organisations.
With a combination of local knowledge and international connections, Megan understands the changing demands of globalisation, technology, mobility, and innovation throughout an organisation.
KENDALL SOICH
Head of Customer Experience & Strategy
“Kendall is extremely professional and knowledgeable. Without a doubt the best experience I have had with any recruiter or firm.”
-
Having joined us from Suncorp, where Kendall led Strategic Partnerships for the Bank, Kendall and her team are responsible for ensuring quality assurance at all stages of the engagement and recruitment process,
Kendall has a specialist expertise in customer engagement and value creation, working with our clients on candidate onboarding strategies and our team to ensure our candidates have the highest level of career advice, support and advice.
Kendall takes great pride in developing and growing ongoing and enduring relationships. She specialises in recruitment, human resource capability, leadership development and coaching, as well as driving employee engagement and performance within organisations.
KERRY LARKIN
Senior Associate
“Kerry's professionalism, insightful guidance, and thorough communication made the process seamless and stress-free.”
-
As a trusted and results-driven executive search consultant, Kerry specialises in connecting innovative organisations with top-tier executives who have the skills, expertise and passion to drive sustainable growth.
With a track record of successful placements across diverse industries, she has developed an extensive network of high-calibre professionals ready to take on leadership roles.
Kerry has previously worked for global executive search and selection firms, and has worked on board and c-level mandates across every industry sector.
Kerry is driven by a passion for securing the best opportunities for her candidates with employers of choice.
JON HOTTOT
Senior Partner,
Executive & Boards
“I have no hesitation in recommending Jon. Personable, transparent and professional throughout the process.”
-
Jon has worked domestically in both Brisbane and Sydney and in London. With over 20 years’ of experience, he has held senior leadership roles and high-profile leadership and managerial consultancy positions.
He commenced his career running accounting before moving into executive search in 2014. He has intimate knowledge of the importance of running a merit-based process, ensuring that all of his work is open to intense scrutiny.
Jon is passionate about delivering superior candidate experience.
ELENA RYAN
Senior Associate &
Head of Talent Insights
“Ellie was very supportive, responsive and helpful. She has a great sense of humour and it's been a pleasure to go through this process with her.”
-
As Head of Talent Insights, Ellie leads our Search, Research, and Talent Mapping team, driving strategic talent discovery and market intelligence to support executive recruitment and workforce planning across sectors.
With a deep expertise in research and targeted search, Ellie specialises in delivering precision-led global executive searches and bespoke talent mapping initiatives. Her work focuses on uncovering high-potential candidates, many of whom are not actively seeking new roles, enabling proactive pipelining and informed hiring decisions.
Ellie partners closely with leadership to translate market data into actionable strategies, guiding teams with insights into competitor landscapes, diversity pools, and high-calibre talent movement. Her approach ensures alignment across stakeholders and enhances strategic talent acquisition outcomes.
BRUNO COSTA
Associate
“One of the most exceptional recruiters I've ever encountered. A rare combination of professionalism, insight, and genuine care”
-
Bruno brings extensive experience in executive search, partnering with organisations from fast-growth enterprises to large corporates. He specialises in end-to-end talent acquisition, ensuring every stage of the process is managed with precision and care.
With a well-established network, Bruno has built strong connections across professional services, education, and for-purpose sectors. He combines deep market knowledge with a consultative approach to deliver exceptional outcomes, consistently connecting high-performing talent with organisations seeking to strengthen their leadership and specialist capability.
SHANNON KEYS
Executive Consultant
“Shannon has been a pleasure to chat to. She has always been professional, friendly and transparent.”
-
Shannon is an experienced advisor who provides dedicated support to board candidates throughout the application process.
Known for her genuine and collaborative approach, she combines excellent interpersonal and organisational skills with the ability to operate seamlessly at both strategic and operational levels. Respected for her professionalism and consistency, Shannon is recognised for delivering service excellence grounded in her core values of integrity, trust, and building long-term relationships.
DAVID REYNOLDS
Senior Partner,
Executive & Boards
“David was excellent at all stages of the process, very knowledgeable about the market and the hiring company and always accommodating of my availability”
-
David has over 30 years’ experience as a business executive and management consultant with specialist expertise in executive and board recruitment, HR consulting, leadership development, career management, strategic planning, business development, remuneration advisory, organisational development and succession planning.
David has over 35 years' experience initially as a chartered accountant (a partner in an international firm of chartered accountants) and then as a leader of two of the largest HR consultancies in Australia.
More recently David was a leading executive recruiter focusing on C-Suite and Board roles.
TOM MANGAN
Senior Partner,
Executive & Boards
“It was clear Tom cared about helping me put my best foot forward. I'd happily recommend Tom to anyone looking for a recruiter who's professional, easy to work with, and truly invested in your success.”
-
With more than three decades of executive leadership experience, Tom brings a rare combination of strategic insight, sector expertise, and a deep understanding of community impact.
His career includes influential leadership as Executive General Manager of Endeavour Foundation’s Community Solutions Group, where he led employment, training, and NDIS services across Queensland, Victoria, and South Australia.
Beyond this operational leadership, Tom’s board and directorship roles with organisations including CoAct and the National Apprentice Employment Network reflect his long-standing dedication to improving lives and strengthening systems.
MATILDA UNDERHILL
Brand & Marketing Manager
“Matilda made the entire process effortless. Her insight, creativity, and attention to detail transformed a complex brief into a campaign we’re incredibly proud of.”
-
As Luminary’s Brand & Marketing Manager, Matilda shapes how clients, candidates, and the wider market experience the Luminary brand. She partners with employers of choice to articulate and present their unique value in a way that is both authentic and compelling, helping attract senior leaders whose values and aspirations align with organisational goals.
Matilda leads Luminary’s brand and marketing initiatives, ensuring every touchpoint reflects trust, creativity, and impact. With a focus on safeguarding brand integrity and enhancing customer engagement, she develops strategies that inform, inspire, and connect, supporting clients to stand out in competitive talent markets while strengthening Luminary’s position as Queensland’s leading executive search and leadership advisory firm.
EMILY EDEN
Customer Experience Manager
“Emily was such a calming and supportive presence throughout the process. She kept me informed at every stage and made what could have been a stressful experience feel easy and personal.”
-
Emily leads Luminary’s Customer Experience team, ensuring every interaction with clients and candidates reflects the highest standard of service and care. With a sharp eye for detail and a passion for excellence, she safeguards the quality of all deliverables and communication across the recruitment journey. Emily is dedicated to building trust at every touchpoint, making sure our processes not only meet expectations but consistently exceed them.
LUCAS FAIRBANKS
Customer Experience Manager
“Lucas was fantastic! He is warm, personable, and genuinely happy to help. You can tell he really enjoys connecting with people, and it makes all the difference.”
-
Lucas brings a creative edge to Luminary’s Customer Experience team, blending service excellence with marketing know-how. He manages candidate-facing platforms, including dedicated recruitment websites, to ensure opportunities are presented with clarity and impact. By aligning communication with brand, Lucas helps clients attract the right leaders and ensures candidates feel informed and supported throughout their journey.
ANN GARCIA
Customer Experience Manager
“Ann couldn’t have been lovelier. She double-checked everything, made sure I felt prepared, and wished me luck. It was such a thoughtful touch that made me feel genuinely supported.”
-
Ann plays a vital role in supporting Luminary’s recruitment operations, working closely with consultants and clients to keep processes moving with accuracy and care. She combines administrative expertise with a warm, approachable style, ensuring communications are clear and timely. Ann’s commitment helps foster positive experiences and lasting relationships with both clients and candidates.
LAKSMI DOBLE
Customer Experience Manager
“Laksmi handles logistics of my interview with such calm professionalism. She was responsive, clear and professional. Even though it was a brief interaction, it made me feel valued.”
-
Laksmi provides essential support across Luminary’s end-to-end recruitment processes, ensuring that every detail runs smoothly behind the scenes. Her strong organisational skills and commitment to precision mean clients and candidates alike experience a seamless journey. Laksmi is focused on maintaining compliance and efficiency, while always keeping the human side of service front of mind.
We’re different. Unapologetically. Intentionally.
At Luminary, we’ve chosen to stay small by design because focus delivers quality. Every member of our close-knit team is among the most respected and experienced leadership professionals in their field. We prize cohesion above all else, because when we operate as one, our clients experience a process that’s seamless, efficient, and executed with quiet precision.
We are nimble.
Without layers of bureaucracy or endless approval chains, we make decisions and collaborate in real time, both with each other and with you. This agility means we can move quickly and adapt to what matters most.
We are human.
We centre compassion and relationships in everything we do. You won’t be left in the dark with us, we understand that clarity and responsiveness matter.
We are curious.
We are relentless in our pursuit of insight and understanding. Every new challenge and opportunity is approached with fresh eyes and thoughtful questions. This ensures we uncover the right solutions and never settle for “good enough.”
For Elena (Ellie), search and recruitment isn’t just about filling roles. It’s about helping people and organisations find alignment, purpose, and potential. Her passion for meaningful work and her genuine care for others make her a natural Luminary. We’re proud to have her lighting the way with us.
Feel the passion of being a Luminary, Elena Ryan
We do what we say.
We treat every career move and every appointment like it’s personal, because to us, it is.
Timely and helpful communication from a team that genuinely cares.
Immediate advice, support and guidance when and where you need it.
A trusted partner alongside you at every step of your career journey.
We put our name on the line to help you build yours.
What this means for you:
A word from our founder.
“No one understands Queensland like we do. Our roots, relationships, and market knowledge run deep, built over decades of partnership with leaders, boards, and government across the state. While global firms drop in and out, we’re here on the ground, invested in the people, the place, and the purpose of Queensland’s leadership community.
We combine cutting-edge search with a rigorous, multi-stage assessment process to ensure every leader delivers with impact. Our evaluations go beyond technical skills; we explore values, leadership style, and decision-making capacity to uncover CulturalAdd™, not just fit.
And our commitment doesn’t end there. We remain a trusted partner, monitoring, advising, supporting, and guiding leaders and organisations long after the ink has dried.
That's why we are Queensland most respected and trusted team.”
Russell Fairbanks
Managing Director, Luminary
What we stand for
Luminary (n): A person who stands out in their field and lights the way for others.
We work with transformational leaders to deliver sustainable results for business and society. People (our candidates, clients, and team) are at the centre of everything we do. Our values guide every decision and interaction:
Be Curious:
Challenge the status quo. Ask questions. Iterate. Innovate continuously. Chase the ‘why’.
Be Bold:
Seek brighter futures for all. Illuminate leadership potential and opportunities. Lead with conviction.
Be Brave:
Speak up, seize opportunities, and stay open-minded. Call it out, respectfully. Own it.
Be Nimble:
Take smart, reflexive action to adapt to changing markets and technology. Be dynamic and agile.
Be Better:
Do good by being good. Pay it forward, collaborate, and act with humility. Raise the bar.
