Bastion, Australasia’s largest independent marketing and communications agency, has added heavyweight business leader Penny Fowler to its Advisory Board as the company prepares for its next stage of expansion across global markets.
Fowler brings deep experience across media, tourism, philanthropy and corporate governance.
She currently serves as Chair of the Herald & Weekly Times, Tourism Australia, the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal and the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.
She is also Community Ambassador for News Corp Australia and sits on the boards of the National Gallery of Australia, Tech Mahindra and the advisory board of Visy/Pratt USA.
Her appointment signals Bastion’s intent to strengthen its leadership bench as it accelerates growth across Australia, New Zealand, Asia and the United States.
“I am delighted to be joining the advisory board of one of Australia’s most exciting companies going from strength to strength,” said Fowler.
“Having seen Australian businesses succeed on the global stage, I believe Bastion has what it takes to do the same. Its integrated model, ambitious growth mindset and strong leadership team are what make it truly stand out; this is a company with its eyes firmly on the future.”
Supporting Bastion’s global desires
The appointment arrives during a period of significant momentum for Bastion, which has built its reputation on an integrated model and client-centric approach.
The agency has been expanding its footprint and capabilities, with recent moves including the launch of Bastion DBX and Bastion Media, the acquisitions of Daymark and Catch, and senior leadership hires in Wellington and the US.
Bastion Group Chairman Fergus Watts said Fowler’s expertise will be crucial as the agency scales.
“Penny’s appointment brings enormous value to Bastion’s leadership as we continue our rapid expansion. Her global perspective and deep understanding of what drives business growth will help our Executive team, led by our CEO Cheuk Chiang, to deliver even greater impact for our clients and people.”
Group CEO Cheuk Chiang echoed the sentiment.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Penny Fowler to the Bastion Board as we enter the next stage of our growth journey. Penny’s deep client knowledge and domain expertise will be invaluable as we continue to build a truly client-centric business. Her perspective will help ensure Bastion remains not only competitive but indispensable to the clients we serve.”
With capabilities spanning brand, communications, research, digital, media, and customer experience, Bastion positions itself as an independent alternative to the holding company model offering global reach while retaining entrepreneurial agility.
Fowler’s arrival marks another step in aligning Bastion’s governance and advisory expertise with its long-term growth plan.