About Catherine
Catherine So is the Practice Leader for Governance, Risk & Compliance and Specialist Counsel at PMC Legal, having joined the firm in 2021. With a robust background in funds management and financial services law, Catherine has amassed extensive experience providing strategic legal advice to Boards and management across various financial services entities, from large institutions to fintech startups. Her expertise encompasses legal, risk, and compliance matters related to product distribution, custody, disclosure, and investment management, as well as the establishment and operational processes of financial services businesses. Catherine's multifaceted role often involves translating business strategies into practical solutions and implementing effective change within organisations.
Her previous experience includes influential positions at Franklin Templeton, Flare HR, BrickX, and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where she honed her skills in governance, risk management, business strategy, and compliance. Catherine has also served as a Senior Lawyer at key industry regulators and financial services companies, including ANZ Wealth and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. This diverse exposure solidified her reputation as a trusted adviser, particularly in managing regulatory changes within the funds management industry.
Catherine's academic credentials are equally impressive, with qualifications from the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Master of Law in financial services and management from AGSM at UNSW Business School. She also holds a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance and Investments from the Securities Institute of Australia. A passionate mentor, Catherine is dedicated to nurturing future talent through various mentorship programs and volunteer work as a company secretary for Kids Giving Back, a not-for-profit organisation.
