The ASU pays tribute to Michael O'Sullivan for the honour of this posthumous award. Michael was National Executive President of the ASU when he left in 2004 after a long and distinguished career with our Union, although we maintained close ties fighting for better superannuation for workers. Our Vale to Michael referred to his focus on governance issues, for which he received this latest award.
You can read the ASU's Vale to Michael here following his death in January this year.
You can read ACSI's media release about Michael's award below.
Former ACSI President Michael O'Sullivan receives major international corporate governance award
By ACSI
You can find this media release on the ACSI website here
Former Australian Council of Superannuation Investors (ACSI) President, Michael O'Sullivan, who passed away earlier this year, has been honoured by the International Corporate Governance Council (ICGN) with a special award for achievements in corporate governance, as part of this year's ICGN Awards.
The posthumous award was made in recognition of Mr O'Sullivan's great contribution to corporate governance in Australia and beyond, as well as being a previous director of ICGN.
In paying tribute to Mr O'Sullivan, ICGN noted:
'Michael was a pioneer in establishing a productive governance dialogue between companies and institutional investors in Australia. He was a passionate advocate for all investors to confront the great moral and investment challenges of our times, in particular those associated with global climate change.'
'His influence and legacy extend far beyond Australia alone, with his long tenure as a member of the Board of the ICGN, tireless promotions of the United Nations backed Principles of Responsible Investment and active participation in the global P8 Group – all leaving a profound mark on sustainable investment thinking and action at a global level.'
Chief Executive Officer of ACSI, Ann Byrne says that ACSI is extremely pleased that Michael has been honoured in this way:
'Michael was one of the visionary founders of ACSI, who accomplished much in a thoughtful and strategic manner. He paved the way for superannuation funds to be the active owners they are today. All investors have benefited from his leadership and the adoption of ESG investment risks into investment models.'
For additional information relating to this release please contact:
Ann Byrne, Chief Executive Officer
Australian Council of Super Investors
Phone: +61 (0)3 8677 3895
Mobile: +61 041 866 5521
Email: abyrne@acsi.org.au