Sonja is the Executive Director Agency Capability and Improvement with the Western Australia Public Sector Commission. She is responsible for leading the Agency Capability Review Program which supports agency capability, culture and performance improvement across the WA public sector.

Sonja has had an extensive career in the WA public sector across multiple agencies including the Department of Justice, Corruption and Crime Commission and the WA Police Force. Her roles have included leading policy and legislative reform, shaping strategic direction, and implementing accountable and transparent governance frameworks. Her work in complex environments, as well as her commitment to self, family and the community, saw her named the WA Telstra Business Woman of the Year in 2013.

Sonja holds a Bachelor of Arts (Criminal Justice Administration) and Executive Master of Public Administration. She was valedictorian and received the Deans Award for Excellence in her cohort. Sonja is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a fellow of Leadership WA.

Sonja O’Leary graduated from the Executive Master of Public Administration in 2008 and ANSOG’s Deputies Leadership Program in 2023. Sonja is a member of ANZSOG’s Alumni Advisory Council.

To find out more about the Alumni Advisory Council, click here.