Petra Buchanan — Board Director

Board Portfolio

Independent directorship across complex organisations

A portfolio of board roles spanning technology, media, publishing, health, and digital services

Board interests and experience

My board interests include technology and digital services, media, publishing and information, health, and substantial purpose-led or member organisations. I am particularly interested in organisations navigating change, complex stakeholder environments, or strategic renewal.

I bring a combination of CEO leadership, international executive experience, and deep sector knowledge to board roles — contributing to strategy, governance, people and remuneration, reputation, and stakeholder alignment.

Board & advisory roles

Portfolio

Board & Advisory Roles

Media / Publishing

Architecture Media

Independent Board Director

Independent Board Director of Architecture Media, Australia's leading publisher of architecture and design titles.

Media / Not-for-profit

Women in Media Australia

Strategic Advisor

Strategic Advisor to Women in Media Australia, supporting the organisation's mission to advance gender equity across the media industry.

Health / Publishing

Australasian Medical Publishing Company (AMPCo)

Independent Board Director · Chair, People & Remuneration Committee

2020–2026

Independent Board Director and Chair of the People & Remuneration Committee at AMPCo, publisher of the Medical Journal of Australia and a leading health information business.

Technology

Premonition

Independent Board Director

2020–2024

Independent Board Director of Premonition, a SaaS business logistics firm providing real-time predictive data technology.

Not-for-profit / Youth

Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Australia

Advisory Board

2018–2025

Advisory Board member for the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in Australia, supporting young people to develop skills, confidence, and resilience.

Professional Services

McCarthy Mentoring

Strategic Advisor · Executive Mentor

Strategic advisor and executive mentor working with leaders navigating significant career transitions and organisational challenges.

Executive Career

Not-for-profit / Health

McGrath Foundation

Chief Executive Officer

CEO of the McGrath Foundation, Australia's leading breast cancer support charity. Overseeing significant growth in the McGrath Breast Care Nurse program, strengthening the organisation's impact and stakeholder relationships.

Media / Industry

ASTRA

Chief Executive Officer

CEO of ASTRA, the pay TV industry body in Australia, representing the subscription television sector and its members.

Technology

Unisys Asia Pacific

Vice President and International Executive

International executive leadership role spanning the Asia Pacific region, leading marketing and communications.

Media / International

Discovery Channel

Vice President and International Executive

International executive role with one of the world's leading entertainment companies, overseeing corporate affairs, communications and publicity across global markets.

Qualifications

Education and credentials

Graduate, AICD Company Directors Course

Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD)

Bachelor of Arts, Political Science  Minors in Journalism and Ethnic Studies

University of California Riverside

Awards and recognition

Awards and recognition

AFR 100 Women of Influence

Recipient

B&T Women in Media Mentor Award

Recipient

B&T Women in Media Glass Ceiling Award

Finalist

Interested in working together?

I welcome conversations about board opportunities in technology, media, health, and purpose-led organisations.