VCOSS CEO Cath Smith Resigns
27 March 2012 at 10:35 am
Above: Cath Smith. Photo courtesy VCOSS |
Victoria’s peak welfare organisation, VCOSS, has announced the surprise resignation of long-time CEO Cath Smith.
VCOSS Board President, Micaela Cronin, says that after ten years of exceptional service, Cath Smith has chosen to make a career change and will be leaving VCOSS in mid-May.
After 27 years of working in the non-government sector, Smith is to be Director of Social Performance at Futureye, an international consulting business based in Melbourne. She will finish work at VCOSS on Thursday May 17.
Cronin says Smith will be missed by an appreciative organisation and the wider community sector.
“Her visionary and pragmatic leadership has helped secure vital support for disadvantaged people and communities, strengthened the role and capacity of the community sector, and built VCOSS into one of the most respected peak bodies in Australia," Cronin said.
“Her ability to work across difference – to bring people and organisations together for a common purpose – is at the heart of her success and of the strong engagement by VCOSS with government and others interested in delivering the best outcomes for Victorians.
“Smith has built valuable relationships with both the Coalition and ALP governments, not only as an effective advocate for low income and disadvantaged people, but as a leader of positive change for the community sector.”
The VCOSS Board says it will commence recruitment of a new CEO immediately. Deputy Director Carolyn Atkins will be Acting CEO from May 18 until a new CEO is appointed.