Gilling joined Planet Ark in 2002, originally as public spokesperson and Special Projects Manager after a long and successful career as a film and television actor. Over the years, she built her expertise in sustainability, earning a Master of Sustainable Development from Macquarie University and helping lead Planet Ark through periods of transformation.
In 2022, she was appointed CEO (after serving as Deputy CEO), taking the helm during a pivotal moment for the organisation. Under her leadership, Planet Ark sharpened its strategic focus around three core “spheres” of activity: carbon neutrality, the circular economy, and connecting people with nature.
Her tenure saw Planet Ark navigate some of its most challenging moments. In 2025, following a period of financial strain, the organisation entered voluntary administration, after which it emerged with a renewed governance structure. Under Rebecca’s leadership Planet Ark was able to successfully navigate voluntary administration, but as part of that transition the Board announced that Gilling would step down by year-end. Adam Culley, previously Deputy CEO, was appointed co‑CEO during the transition period and will become sole CEO effective from November 28.
Gilling’s deep roots with Planet Ark have shaped its evolution. When she first joined, Planet Ark was focused largely on recycling programs and National Tree Day. Over time, she helped to pivot the organisation “up the ladder” of the waste hierarchy — emphasising reducing, rethinking and redesigning, rather than just recycling.
Rebecca waters a freshly planted native at a Schools Tree Day event.
Her optimistic and empowering leadership style has been central. In early remarks as CEO, she said that what sets Planet Ark apart is that “we are in the business of empowering people to give them hope and a sense of their own capacity to make change.”
Gilling has also emphasised Planet Ark’s nonpartisan approach: working with governments, businesses, communities and individuals to find common solutions. Beyond organisational strategy, she has been a passionate advocate for advancing Australia’s circular economy, helping to drive the launch of the Australian Circular Economy Hub.
Gilling expressed gratitude for her time at Planet Ark and confidence in the organisation’s future under new leadership:
“It has been a privilege to serve Planet Ark for more than two decades. I am deeply proud of where we have come from, and where we are heading and Adam and I have closely over recent months to ensure a smooth transition,” Gilling said.
“The mission of connecting people to nature, fighting climate change and building circular systems is more urgent than ever and I know Planet Ark is well-positioned to keep driving impact within the Australian business and government sectors as well as the general public.”
Paul Klymenko, Rebecca Gilling and Tanya Plibersek at Planet Ark's Circularity Conference 2022.
Incoming CEO Adam Culley thanked Rebecca for her role in leading Planet Ark in recent years and thanked her for her lasting influence on the organisation.
“Rebecca’s leadership has shaped Planet Ark into the trusted, impactful organisation it is today. It has been an honour to serve alongside her, we are deeply grateful for her contribution and will continue to advance her legacy of positive change.”