The Benevolent Society, Australia’s first charity, has appointed Joanne Toohey as Chief Executive Officer, after nine months of serving as acting CEO. The appointment comes after an extensive and rigorous nationwide search following the departure of Anne Hollonds in July 2014.
“Ms Toohey has proven to be an exceptional interim CEO and the Board is confident that she is the right person to lead The Benevolent Society at this point in its more than two hundred year history,” said Lisa Chung, Chairman of the Board.
“The Board is deeply impressed by Ms Toohey’s capable and calm leadership, and the extent of internal consolidation she has achieved in a relatively short time. We are confident that under her leadership the organisation is building a sound platform for even more success in the future.”
The Benevolent Society is a not-for-profit, non-religious organisation that has helped people, families and communities achieve positive change since 1813. It is recognised as a leader in developing Social Benefit Bonds, for its centre for leadership development (Social Leadership Australia) and for delivering flexible social support services for families in crisis, people living with a mental illness in the community and older people needing help at home.
The Benevolent Society has an annual turnover of more than $100million, employs nearly 1000 staff and is supported by 600 volunteers across 55 sites in New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. In 2014 the organisation reached more than 84,000 people through its services, programs and events.
Ms Toohey joined the Benevolent Society in 2013 as Executive Director of NSW Operations, with an impressive track record as a senior executive in the aged care sector with experience in residential and community care and housing services.
As Director of Operations at UnitingCare Ageing, Ms Toohey was part of a leadership team responsible for 6,500 staff and an annual turn-over of more than $500million. Previously, as Regional Executive Manager for Property at Uniting Care, she managed a capital budget of $45million and developed a regional strategic plan that included an innovative model to provide low cost housing and care for socially and financially disadvantaged older people in inner Sydney.
Ms Toohey is excited to have her appointment confirmed: “My goal is for The Benevolent Society to build on our reputation as an innovative provider of services, and become an even greater place to work. I am motivated by our commitment to social justice and want to see The Benevolent Society continue to be a leader in improving social impact and advocacy for a just society where all Australians are able to thrive.”
This article originally appeared on the Benevolent Society website.
