SDN announces new Head of Services, Rod Nadwie-Smith, effective February 2023

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider SDN Children’s Services has announced that Rod Nadwie-Smith will take on the role of Head of Services, commencing February 2023.

Mr Nadwie-Smith has an extensive not-for-profit background in children’s services and the early learning sector, as well as strong management and executive experience at organisations such as Goodstart Early Learning, the Starlight Children’s Foundation, and YMCA NSW and Sydney. 

“I’m thrilled to be joining SDN as it works on its new strategic plan,” he said. 

“Throughout my career I’ve been passionate about working in the best interests of children, and SDN has a strong commitment to children as its purpose and I’m looking forward to being able to contribute to its future direction.”

Currently, Mr Nadwie-Smith is the Head of Early Learning for Uniting NSW/ACT, and has responsibility for 51 early childhood education and care (ECEC) services comprising long day care, preschool and outside school hours care offerings. 

Described as a leader with “ample curiosity, pragmatism and influence,” Mr Nadwie-Smith is said to be an excellent leader of people. He’s described as an executive team member with a broad knowledge and application of change initiatives and imperatives as they relate to operational and new systems implementation along with strategic development and culture. 

In his role as Head of Services, he will play a pivotal role in ensuring SDN provides high-quality, desirable, sustainable and impactful services which are aligned with SDN’s vision, purpose, values and strategy, while also supporting the operations team in providing frontline services for children and families. 

“SDN is very excited to have Rod join our Executive team and looks forward to welcoming him in the new year,” CEO Kay Turner said. 

“During 2023 we’ll be consulting on and developing our strategic plan for the next five years and having someone with Rod’s experience and knowledge of the sector will be invaluable.”