Aboriginal Investment NT recently announced the appointment of its new Chief Operating Officer, Deirdre O'Sullivan, as it enters the next phase of development.

Ms O'Sullivan, who commenced in the role on Monday, will steer the operational direction of Aboriginal Investment NT's corporate functions.

Aboriginal Investment NT invests in Aboriginal organisations, businesses and small and large-scale projects across the NT to build wealth and wellbeing for current and future generations. It works in collaboration with commercial and philanthropic partners who share the bold vision of bringing sustainable Aboriginal investment opportunities to fruition.

Aboriginal Investment NT operates independently of government and has an Aboriginal-majority board.

The organisation said Ms O'Sullivan has "extensive experience in accounting, executive leadership and planning, and operational oversight".

Prior to her appointment at Aboriginal Investment NT, Ms O'Sullivan was chief executive at Regional Development Australia NT, where she led the organisation in promoting economic success, environmental sustainability and regional growth through investments and infrastructure projects across the NT.

Before this, Ms O'Sullivan was the Chief Corporate Officer at West Arnhem Regional Council and Chief Financial Officer at Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation.

She has also served as a board member of Jabiru Kabolkmakmen Ltd, a local Aboriginal enterprise that supported the social and economic development of Jabiru.

Ms O'Sullivan replaces Andrew Werro, who has been the interim COO since January 2024. He will continue as Joint Acting chief executive until the commencement of the new CEO.

Aboriginal Investment NT Board chair Barbara Shaw thanked Mr Werro for his valuable contribution and welcomed Ms O'Sullivan to the organisation, highlighting her deep ties to the NT, local communities and experience in Aboriginal organisations.

"Deirdre brings a wealth of local experience to Aboriginal Investment NT's operations. Her role will be crucial as we enter the delivery phase of Aboriginal-led investment and deployment of capital aligned with Aboriginal development priorities," Ms Shaw said.

Ms O'Sullivan will work closely with the Board, executive team and staff to deliver Aboriginal Investment NT's Strategic Investment Plan 2024-29.