Disability service Mai-Wel has appointed its next CEO after the announcement that Pennie Kearney would retire after 18 years in the role.
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Experienced community service industry professional Lynne Graham will commence as the organisation’s CEO on November 26.
Ms Graham has more than 20 years’ experience in the community services sector including leadership roles and formal qualifications.
In a prior CEO role at Independent Community Living Australia, she effectively managed a restructure of organisational practices to meet the challenges of implementation of the NDIS.
Lynne has the skillset to continue the wonderful work of Pennie in representing Mai-Wel in the community.
- Chairman Graham Burns
Ms Graham said she was hoping to continue the “remarkable work” Mai-Wel does.
“[I’m looking forward] to working closely with board, staff, participants, clients and businesses to ensure its longevity so it’s there for another 50 years,” she said.
“I would like to achieve continued growth and development of the organisation, and provision of quality service to participants and clients.
“I’m just delighted to be appointed and looking forward to continuing the excellent work of Pennie. I hope I can fill her shoes.”
Mai-Wel Chairman Graham Burns said Ms Graham had the skills and experience to lead Mai-Wel into the next phase of growth.
“She is passionate about quality service provision and ensuring that services provided are person centred and meet the needs of an individual and this commitment aligns to the Mai-Wel focus on quality participant care,” he said.
“She enjoys talking with participants and hearing their stories and more importantly working to resolve issues.
“Lynne comes to us with highly developed communication skills and is comfortable working across the broad spectrum of stakeholders including our participants, employees, the executive team and the Board, as well as funding and business partners.
“Lynne has the skillset to continue the wonderful work of Pennie in representing Mai-Wel in the community, at industry level and in government.”
Mr Burns also saluted Ms Kearney, saying her eighteen years as CEO have involved “the biggest changes in our history, all firmly stamped with Pennie’s drive, passion and compassionate approach to sometimes difficult circumstances.
“She is a notable personality in Maitland, but also in the disability services sector, known for her dedication and contribution to the bigger issues facing participants and organisations alike.
“She will be greatly missed by her staff, her board but most of all by the wide range of participants in the many facets of Mai-Wel’s services.”
