Former NSW premier to lead the NRMA

Former Liberal Party politician and NSW premier Mike Baird will take over as CEO of the NRMA from August 2026.

Mr Baird will replace interim NRMA CEO, Carolyn Darke, who has fulfilled the role since previous CEO Rohan Lund announced his departure in October 2025 after nearly 10 years with the NRMA.

Baird is the current CEO of McKinnon, an organisation that supports governments across Australia through leadership programs, policy innovation, and public sector delivery.

Prior to this, Baird held executive positions in both private and not-for-profit organisations, including CEO of health and aged care provider HammondCare and part of the executive leadership team at NAB (National Australia Bank).

Most notably, Baird served as NSW premier from 2014-2017 before a surprise resignation on January 19, 2017.

“I am thrilled to be joining an organisation with such a proud history and one so committed to delivering value and excellence for its 3.5 million members,” said Mr Baird. “This opportunity comes at an important time for the NRMA as we focus on how we continue to build a modern, sustainable mutual that connects motoring, travel and rewards, while advocating for the needs and safety of NSW motorists.

“I am looking forward to working with the talented and experienced leadership team to build an even stronger future for the NRMA, its members and its loyal partners.”

NRMA chairperson Derek Stanwell said, “We are delighted to welcome an executive of Mike’s calibre to the NRMA. He has a rare combination of enterprise-scale operational leadership, deep financial discipline and proven credibility in highly scrutinised, consumer-facing environments.

“We are excited about the depth and strength of leadership experience and commitment to excellence in customer service, innovation and accountability that Mike will bring to the NRMA.”