Leadership

Alannah & Madeline Foundation farewells CEO Lesley Podesta

Freya Lucas

Feb 23, 2021

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The Board of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, best known in early childhood education and care (ECEC) circles for its work in digital safety for children, for bullying prevention, and for the Foundation’s Early Childhood Trauma Consultancy Service (TraCS), has proudly farewelled outgoing CEO Lesley Podesta (pictured) as she retires later this month.

Ms Podesta’s commitment to the Foundation and the children that it helps over the past five years has been outstanding, Greg Sutherland, Board Chair said.

“We have experienced significant growth in our programs and our reach during her tenure. Lesley’s passion and drive has ensured that the Foundation continues to be a highly respected, national organisation with an overarching vision to ensure that all children will live in a safe and supportive environment.”

In farewelling Ms Podesta, the Board also announced her replacement, Sarah Davies.

Ms Davies has spent five years as CEO of Philanthropy Australia – the national peak body and membership organisation for philanthropy in Australia, and joins the Foundation with significant experience and expertise in the leadership, management and governance of charities, nonprofits and philanthropy.

Prior to her role with Philanthropy Australia, Sarah was CEO of The Reach Foundation, and CEO of the Australian Communities Foundation.

Before moving into the nonprofit sector, her professional life included senior executive roles in tertiary education in Australia and private sector consulting in HR, marketing and strategy in Australia, Europe and the Middle East.

Ms Davies will commence in the position effective 1 March, with Mr Sutherland saying the Board is “delighted that she will be leading the Foundation.”

Further information about the work of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation may be found here

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