Staff - The Centre for Independent Studies

Michael Stutchbury is the former Editor-in-Chief of The Australian Financial Review, a role he held from 2011 until 2024, when he became the masthead's Editor-at-Large. With a career in journalism spanning several decades, and including a stint as a Washington correspondent, he is widely respected for his expertise in economic and public policy issues and his engagement with business issues. Before leading the Financial Review, he served as Economics Editor and later as Editor of The Australian, where he played a key role in shaping national discourse on fiscal policy, industrial relations, and economic reform. His career has consistently demonstrated

Dearne Cameron

Chief Operating Officer & General Manager

Dearne is responsible for the management and growth of CIS. She has many years of experience as a senior executive, and she knows how to drive innovative strategies that benefit the organisation. Over the course of her career, Dearne has held board positions and senior leadership roles in both for-profit and nonprofit organisations.

Simone Ericsson

Graphic Designer

Responsible for layout design of visual communications at CIS, Simone has extensive print and digital experience in corporate marketing communications, building relationships and supporting brands large and small in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Darwin throughout her career. She holds a degree in visual arts from UNSW Art + Design, and a diploma of Graphic Design from TAFE Design Centre Enmore. She has served on the WA council of the Australian Graphic Design Association (AGDA), and run her own freelance design business in WA and the NT.

Randall Evans

Digital Producer

Randall is an independent filmmaker and content creator. He produces documentaries on propaganda, love and politics. At CIS he focuses …

Max Hawke-Weaver

Event Director

Responsible for the delivery of the Centres’ event program, Max is on a mission to create unique events that position CIS at the forefront of public debate. Max has over 12 years of industry experience in events, marketing and major sporting events, having split his career between the UK and Australia. Max has worked with small charities, major sporting competitions and everything in-between.

Ian Moore

Editorial Manager

Ian Moore has worked in the media industry as a journalist, editor and manager for more than 50 years, He has been editor of three metropolitan newspaper titles, and was founding editor of one of them, the Sunday Herald Sun in Melbourne, in 1991. He also has worked for industry group NewsMediaWorks and its predecessor, PANPA (Pacific Area Newspaper Publishers Association,) and has written for a number of publications, including The Australian and Spectator Australia.

Trish Murray

Development Executive

Trish is an experienced professional with a background in communications, keynote speaking and a degree in Hotel Management. She brings a thoughtful, relationship-focused approach to her role at CIS and helps shape development strategy building strong relationships with supporters. Known for her collaborative style, clear communication and leadership grounded in practical experience, Trish brings energy, focus and a genuine commitment to the organisation’s mission.

Nicolas Peschler

Head of Marketing

Nicolas is the Head of Marketing at CIS. Originally from France, he brings his expertise in marketing across different companies and industries. His focus is on expanding and increasing the brand popularity and visibility of CIS on social media. He has a Master's degree in international marketing and digital marketing.