Ex-Optus CEO Kelly Bayer Rosmarin took an incredible path, from resignation to high-profile status in Australia’s business and charitable worlds. Her strategic hires and business pursuits demonstrate a dedication to innovation, diversity, and social responsibility.

A Move into Fintech and Real Estate as a Strategic Play

Rosmarin was appointed to the board of Airwallex, a Melbourne fintech business valued at more than US$6 billion, in June 2025. She serves as non-executive director and strategic advisor to the company, drawing on her deep expertise across banking, risk, and regulated markets. Airwallex delivers end-to-end financial solutions, including payments, treasury, and embedded finance, to customers globally
Airwallex.

At the same time, Rosmarin is retained as a non-executive director at Australia’s top digital property advertising company, REA Group. Her presence in both organizations reflects her impact on directing the future of fintech and real estate industries.

Steering Australian Unity into a New Era

In September 2025, Rosmarin was elected Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Australian Unity, a 185-year-old mutual provider of health, wealth, and care services. She will formally take up the position on December 15, 2025, with an initial transition period commencing on November 5, 2025.

Rosmarin’s appointment signals a major leadership transition at Australian Unity, which has grown significantly under retiring CEO Rohan Mead. The company will look to continue its growth and evolution, with a continued focus on optimizing member and customer outcomes Financial Standard.

Building Aigentsphere: Leading AI Management

Rosmarin is also the founder of Aigentsphere, an AI management startup set to launch in the next few months. The firm’s purpose is to give organizations the infrastructure and tools they need to implement AI responsibly and effectively. Taking cues from HR systems that handle human talent, Aigentsphere aspires to provide “guardrails” for AI deployment so that it is integrated ethically and effectively.

Fighting Antisemitism: A Philanthropic Venture

Apart from corporate positions, Rosmarin is also co-heading a philanthropic project with former Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg to fight antisemitism. This initiative indicates her commitment to social justice and proactive nature in tackling the problems of society.

Encouraging Deep Thinking and Innovation

Rosmarin stresses the need for “deep thinking” to spur innovation. Drawing an analogy from Einstein’s style of problem-solving, she is of the view that contemplation and intellectual seriousness are necessary for significant forward movement. She criticizes Australia’s risk-averse business culture, calling for a paradigm shift toward the acceptance of experimentation and learning from failure as the means to creating technological progress.

A Multifaceted Leader Shaping Australia’s Future

Kelly Bayer Rosmarin’s professional journey is a prime example of resilience, flexibility, and vision. From facing adversity at Optus to leading initiatives in fintech, healthcare, AI, and philanthropy, she remains a force for influence and inspiration across different industries. Her integrated style of leadership and innovation makes her an integral part of building Australia’s corporate and social landscape.