Dr Susan McGinty is the CEO and Founder of Aya Leadership. An award-winning scientist and global STEM & Security leadership development expert, speaker and author, she is inspired to transform the profile of leadership in STEM and Security to foster leadership excellence, diversity and inclusion; uplift women into leadership roles; and promote innovation sustainability. Susan was awarded the 2025 Women Leading Tech Champion of Change Award (Highly Commended) and 2023 Women in STEM Leadership Leader of the Year Award for her work supporting the leadership development of women in STEM globally.
Susan helps organisations across STEM, intelligence, national security and cyber security to develop diverse leadership pipelines as a foundation for business growth and innovation. She works with leaders globally to strengthen leadership skills and develop resilient, high-performing teams. Her thought leadership and tailored leadership programs have global impact.
Aya Leadership is a training partner of AIPIO and the Australian Women in Security Network. Aya Leadership won the 2024 Women in Security Award for Best Industry Initiative Supporting Diversity, Inclusion and Equity for the Women in Security Emerging Leaders Program. Susan has a PhD in Medicinal & Organic Chemistry, a Master of Leadership, and 25 years’ experience in STEM, Defence, Intelligence and National Security, and STEM/Security leadership development.
