New senior leadership appointments follow as Dr Ros Baxter commences Goodstart CEO role

Dr Ros Baxter has commenced her new role as CEO of Australia’s largest early childhood education and care provider, Goodstart Early Learning, following the announcement she would be taking on the position in the wake of founding CEO Julia Davison’s departure. 

Dr Baxter joined Goodstart after an extensive career which most recently saw her holding senior positions in the Federal Government including as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Education where she had responsibility for early childhood and prior to that as Deputy Secretary of Integrity and Information at the Department of Human Services.

On her first day as CEO, Dr Baxter visited centres in Brisbane where she met with children and Goodstart team members. She met teams and children at Goodstart centre’s in Kedron and Hendra before being Welcomed to Country by Kiana Charlton, and welcomed to Goodstart by Aunty Flo Watson, Ama Rose (Aunty McRose Elu) and the Torres Strait Choir.

“It was a real privilege to start my tenure with the opportunity to talk with children, educators and centre teams,” Ros said.

“Goodstart is an important organisation, fulfilling its purpose to give children the quality early learning they need for school and life. Everyone has a right to a great start in life and I am looking forward to ensuring we continue to meet the vision of our founders.”

Two new senior leaders confirmed –  Deputy CEO and GM Network Operations  

In addition to visiting centres and meeting team members Dr Baxter also confirmed the appointment of two new senior leaders. 

Firstly, Jeff Harvie who will be taking on the Deputy CEO role. Mr Harvie joined the Group in 2014 as Chief Financial Officer, a position he held for nearly five years before his remit was broadened to include Chief Operating Officer and more recently Interim CEO responsibilities. 

“As Deputy CEO Jeff brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of Goodstart, its people and its purpose. In his new role he will continue to provide guidance to our centre teams across our 661 centres with a focus on our centre-led ways of working and our quality journey,” Dr Baxter said. 

Secondly, Dr Baxter also announced that Paul Ryan, take on the General Manager Network Operations role. Mr Ryan joined Goodstart five years ago as a regional operations manager before stepping up as Acting Chief Operating Officer to support Mr Harvie during the CEO transition. 

“Paul’s hands-on knowledge and years of organisational expertise will be put to the best possible use as he helps to ensure our centre-led ways of working provide us the best possible outcomes for children, families and our centre teams,” she added.

To learn more about Goodstart’s senior leadership visit their website here.