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The Y announces resignation of its National CEO Melinda Crole

September 13, 2021 The Y in Australia

The Y in Australia is soon to farewell its highly respected National CEO Melinda Crole, after 17 years of dedicated service to the Y, the last 5 as National CEO.

Under Melinda’s leadership, the Y in Australia:

  • Agreed to become the Y – changing our logo and name for the first time in 52 years – to be more modern, inclusive and representative of all young people and rolling out a new national brand.
  • United all our member Ys around a single unifying belief that when young people are inspired they are powerful.
  • Established a national safeguarding team now part of a new national harm prevention charity for the Y.
  • Was among the first organisations to join the Federal Government’s National Redress Scheme for survivors of institutional child sexual abuse.
  • Issued a public apology to survivors of child sexual abuse at the Y.
  • Is well positioned to establish a new Y Careers Agency to support more young people into stable, meaningful careers in the caring sector.

“We are a better national organisation thanks to Melinda,” said National President Ben Hubbard, announcing Melinda’s resignation.

“Not only are we more collaborative and engaged, but we are more strategic and innovative. In some of the most difficult times in our long history, we have had thoughtful and measured leadership.

“And most significantly, our centres and sites are safer for children, and we are inspired by young people in all we do. This is a significant legacy to leave.

“Melinda was presented with an unexpected opportunity to develop her career further and work with a team in the commercial sector with a focus on the development of children and family services and we wish her well.”

Melinda said she was proud of the ‘small part’ she had played in the Y’s long history and that it was now at a point in time where it needs to be “heroic and ensure young people are not left behind by the disruption of the pandemic but rather are inspired and empowered to lead us into a bright future”.

Melinda’s last day with the Y will be 15 October and Ross Kyrwood has agreed to be Acting CEO until a new CEO commences, anticipated by February 2022.

The recruitment process for a new national CEO for the Y will be announced this Wednesday 15 September.

 

Media inquiries:
Dianne McDonald Y Australia (0412 858 556) E: Dianne.mcdonald@ymca.org.au

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