Rowan Foster
Director Philanthropy
Rowan has worked with private, public and non-profit organisations, both here in Australia and overseas, for more than 20 years.
His early-stage marketing career was left behind for the world of fundraising and philanthropy after losing a good friend, Adam Smiddy, to cancer in 2006. His role in the start-up of the cause now known as Mater Smiling for Smiddy—a series of cycling and triathlon events—has seen more than $10 million raised for cancer research at Mater.
Rowan has extensive experience developing fundraising strategies, fostering meaningful stakeholder relationships and connecting supporters with opportunities to make a difference. As Director of Philanthropy, Rowan is responsible for the development and management of Mater Foundation’s philanthropy team and programs, including major gifts, bequests, Trusts and Foundations, and internal philanthropic engagement.
