26/05/2022
MDAS renewal taking shape
Three key leadership positions announced
The renewal of the Mallee District Aboriginal Services’ executive team and key staff is continuing, with three key leadership appointments announced by Interim Chair Vicki Clark OAM this week.
Ms Clark said MDAS Chief Executive Officer Jacki Turfrey is on unplanned personal leave, but the rejuvenation of key leadership roles was continuing.
Experienced and well-regarded Bendigo District Aboriginal Corporation executive Dallas Widdicombe has accepted a three-month appointment as Interim Deputy CEO, and Ms Clark said he would effectively oversee the establishment of the new executive team.
“We’re thrilled Dallas has agreed to take up the role to see us through this important time,” Ms Clark said.
“He is a people-person, an incredible communicator and a community-focussed Aboriginal leader – that will be so important for us going forward, because we are committed to bringing our communities, staff and stakeholders with us on this journey,” she said.
“We are looking to strengthen our networks and partnerships with our stakeholders, staff and Mobs, and Dallas is someone who has focussed on building strong relationships throughout his career. As a Swan Hill person, I am also thrilled he has committed to working part of his week at our Swan Hill and Kerang offices.”
Ms Clark said she was also pleased to announce the first of the permanent appointments to the MDAS executive team.
“Our recruitment drive is being managed by national talent search agency Fisher Leadership. It’s focussed on putting together a strong and passionate Senior Executive Team – but we were pleased the process identified successful candidates already within our organisation,” she said.
“Darlene Thomas is our new Director of People, Culture and Inclusion and is a perfect fit for the role, with recent experience as the Deputy CEO, and skills in strategy, recruitment, people management and cultural safety. Her ongoing and strong connection to MDAS and Community will be important to us, going forward.”
In addition, Mason Peter, the Manager of Family Violence, has been appointed as the Acting Director, Family and Community Services.
Experienced senior manager Dr David Lowe has accepted a role with the MDAS transition leadership group, as the Interim Executive Director of Corporate Service.
“David will spend part of his week working from Mildura, and part from Swan Hill and will lead the Corporate Services team as well as focussing on the service and infrastructure requirements of Swan Hill,” Ms Clark said.
She said an interim executive team would allow a seamless and efficient transition to the permanent Executive Team as appointments continued.
“It means our MDAS service teams can be confident in refocussing on community needs while the national recruitment process continues to find the best team to lead us forward,” Ms Clark said.
Pictured: Dallas Widdicombe