Bio
Nigel Harris is an established and highly regarded non-profit sector leader specializing in philanthropy and fundraising. With an outstanding track record in organizational growth and development, Nigel has developed a unique range of experiences and insights in governance, executive leadership, and applied fundraising practice.
Nigel is the Managing Director of Nigel Harris & Associates, an advisory and consulting practice specializing in philanthropy and fundraising leadership. He is also affiliated with other agencies in the non-profit sector, where he provides specialist advisory services.
In a career spanning 40 years, Nigel has held executive leadership roles in non-profit organizations, most notably serving as Chief Executive Officer of Mater Foundation (Queensland) for 24 years. Under his leadership, Mater Foundationās annual fundraising revenue grew from $2 million to $73 million, raising over $750 million during his tenure and establishing the Foundation as one of Australiaās largest health charities and a major funder of medical research and clinical services.
Nigel holds an MBA majoring in fundraising, as well as qualifications in Public Relations and Marketing. He is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). In 2012, he was named the Arthur Venn Australian Fundraising Professional of the Year and has received other recognitions for his contributions to non-profit management.
Nigel has played a significant leadership role within Fundraising Institute Australia (FIA) for over 35 years, serving as Board Chair on two separate occasions and driving initiatives in credentialing, professional development, and self-regulation. He has also held several international voluntary appointments within the philanthropic and fundraising sectors.
Currently, Nigel serves as Deputy Chair of Act for Kids and as a director on the Boards of Leukaemia Foundation Australia, the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy (UK), and Braille House. He has previously served on the Community Council for Australia and CFRE International (USA) Boards. He is a Fellow of Fundraising Institute Australia, the Institute of Managers and Leaders, and the CEO Institute. A Past President of the Rotary Club of Albany Creek, Nigel has been active in community and sporting organizations for over 40 years.
In June 2022, Nigel was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of his contributions to the non-profit sector and the broader community.
As one of Australiaās first "first-career" fundraising professionals, Nigel has been deeply involved in the evolution of fundraising as a profession in Australia over the past four decades. He remains a significant influencer and innovator in the sector, both nationally and internationally. Today, he is a sought-after presenter, writer, educator, and mentor, specializing in executive leadership, governance, and organizational and professional development.
