Lauren McGregor(Opens in a new tab/window) is the NRFC's Director, Investments (Resources). Lauren is a key member of the NRFC's Investment Team focusing on investments in our Value-add in Resources Priority Area, bringing extensive experience in the provision of corporate and project finance to the Australian resources sector.
We sat down with Lauren to find out more about her role at the NRFC and the how support from the NRFC can help turn resource potential into lasting economic outcomes.
Can you tell us about your role as Director, Investments (Resources) – what are your key responsibilities and focus areas?
My primary focus is on the Value-Add in Resources Priority Area, where the NRFC is backing companies involved in critical minerals processing or developing innovative technology that can enhance productivity and sustainability in the resources sector.
I’m responsible for originating and executing investments across the critical minerals and broader resources value chain. This involves sourcing high-quality opportunities, undertaking due diligence, and structuring investments that align with the NRFC’s overall purpose to diversify and transform Australian industrial capability.
A large and very enjoyable part of my role is stakeholder engagement – working closely with companies and industry groups across the critical minerals ecosystem, private financiers of the sector, and across government.
You’ve been closely involved with two of the NRFC’s biggest investments – Liontown Resources and Alpha HPA. Can you tell us more about these deals and their importance to the NRFC’s investment portfolio?
I’m proud to have been involved in both these investments, which were a huge team effort across the NRFC in partnership with each company. While Liontown and Alpha HPA are focused on two very different markets (lithium and high-purity alumina respectively), they are both world-leading companies, with a strong commitment to sustainability, including decarbonisation and engagement with their First Nations stakeholders.
Both transactions demonstrate how the NRFC can effectively crowd-in private capital to nationally significant critical minerals projects.
Why do you think the NRFC’s Value-Add in Resources Priority Area is important for Australia’s resources sector?
Australia has a world-class resources endowment, but the greatest national benefit comes from capturing more value along the supply chain through downstream processing, advanced manufacturing, and technology adoption.
This aligns with Australia’s critical minerals policy, focused on building sovereign capacity, securing trusted supply chains and attracting onshore investment. By backing competitive projects through development and ramp-up, the NRFC can help turn resource potential into lasting economic outcomes, supporting regional jobs, exports, and stronger industry-government partnerships.
Can you tell us a little bit about your career journey so far?
I started my career with Lloyds Banking Group in the UK, on their graduate trainee program. I did various roles before joining the turnaround and restructuring division during the GFC. It was a fantastic experience, supporting businesses across a range of sectors, including financial services, software, retail, oil & gas, and even a theme park! I loved working directly with companies to help restructure their operations and ensure the bank could be repaid. It taught me a great deal about strategic decision-making, stakeholder management, and communication.
I moved to Australia in 2013 and joined CBA’s Natural Resources team, providing corporate and project finance to mining and services companies. That was my introduction to the resources sector, and I really enjoyed the interplay between macroeconomic trends, technical operations, and people.
After CBA, I joined Resource Capital Funds, a mining-focused private equity firm investing globally in critical minerals and innovation. Evaluating global projects gave me a deeper understanding of both the competitive advantages and the challenges Australian companies face when seeking to compete internationally.
My role at the NRFC draws on my experience across both debt and equity, as well as mining and technology, and I’m really enjoying the chance to help shape the organisation’s strategy and culture in its early stages.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?
In my early twenties, I made it to the late stages of auditions for the first revival of the TV series Gladiators. I didn’t quite make the cut, so instead of stepping into the arena, I stayed on the much safer path of my graduate banking role!
When you are not working at the NRFC, how do you like to unwind and recharge?
I’ve been involved in competitive sport from a young age, and I still love a challenge. Over the past few years, I’ve competed in Ironman triathlons, ultramarathons, swim-run endurance events, and Hyrox competitions. My 2026 challenge is still TBD and I’m very open to suggestions!
Outside of sport, I have two young children, aged four and eight, and we’ve recently bought a camper trailer. As a family we love exploring Western Australia’s incredible coastline and national parks. After nearly 13 years living in Perth, I’m still in awe of the natural beauty WA has to offer.
If you'd like to connect or learn more, you can reach out to Lauren via LinkedIn.(Opens in a new tab/window)