The end of April brings the beginning of new innings. We are sadly farewelling our Executive Officer, Sandy Ross, after 5 and a half years. Sandy has accepted an exciting opportunity to join Rights, Advocacy and Information Centre (RIAC) as their CEO starting Monday, 15 May. Sandy has had many accomplishments in his time with us, increasing the profile of the financial counselling profession in Victoria and leaving the organisation in a healthy position. We know many will miss seeing and working with Sandy, and hope members and others will have the opportunity to catch up with Sandy at the FCVic Conference in Lorne a little later this year (members, please remember to save the dates Wednesday 11 October to Friday 13 October in your calendars for the Conference – you will receive more information about the Conference early next week!).
In the wake of Sandy leaving, the FCVic Board has appointed Michael Brown as FCVic Interim EO. Michael brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role; he is the Chair of Reclink Australia; Chair of Deakin University Sports/Law Advisory Board; Chair of the Prestige in Home Care Group; and in his working career has more than 30 years’ experience in senior leadership roles within corporate and elite sports management sectors, most recently retiring from as Head of Strategy and Business with Ticketmaster in Australia and New Zealand. He has experience working with state and federal governments and the NFP sector and the FCVic Board and staff are excited that Michael was available to accept this short-term role, while they continue work on an external recruitment process. Michael has commenced in the role and is working closely with the amazing FCVic staff to ensure we manage the transition to the new EO efficiently.
In addition to this, Georgia Robenstone is leaving her role as Campaigns and Advocacy Manager at FCVic in mid-May and will be stepping into a new role at Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS). Georgia has been with FCVic for over 4 years and her fantastic work will be greatly missed. She has been instrumental in many of FCVic’s reports and submissions in this time; has been a pillar of support for members involved in working groups and networks; and has worked tirelessly to advocate for the sector. Georgia’s position is being advertised via EthicalJobs here, and members are strongly encouraged to apply and join the FCVic team in this vital role.