6 June 2001

ACM Welcomes New CEO

The Board of UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide today announced that Ms Sue Park has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer.

Ms Park has a long established reputation for innovative service delivery and proven commitment to working with people who are disadvantaged. She is currently serving on the Ministerial Forum for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, and the UnitingCare Australia Child Youth and Family Advisory Committee.

Ms Park is also the first woman appointed to the Chief Executive position with UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide. She joins Alison Whish who is CEO at the Port Pirie Central Mission and Jan Trengrove, Moderator elect, as women with prominent leadership roles within the SA Synod of the Uniting Church.

Ms Park said ‘It is an honour to be appointed to this position at a time when UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide is both celebrating 100 years of service in SA and implementing new strategic directions in responding to the needs of families and communities in a rapidly changing social and economic environment.’

Ms Park continued ‘I commenced as CEO on the day that UnitingCare released an important report about poverty in Australia. The sobering reality is that Australia is becoming an ever more divided society. My role is to enable UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide to work in strengthening individuals, families and communities to overcome a range of challenges, from family violence to poverty to attitudes towards disability. I also commit ACM to working with government and business to seek solutions to the problems that stop individuals, families and this state from reaching our potential.’

Ms Park also noted the ongoing commitment of UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide to support new community initiatives with resourcing provided through the Forsyth Foundation that is administered through ACM. ‘There are enormous capacities within communities, and we are pleased to be in a position to support these.’

Ms Park paid tribute to the staff of the organisation. ‘The expertise and dedication of our employees and volunteers is outstanding. From the warmth and care provided by our Aged Care staff, to the remarkable dedication of Lifeline volunteers, to the skill and compassion of those who work with people who are homeless and, indeed, throughout all other aspects of our work, UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide is remarkably fortunate. I am very privileged to have the role of leading such a talented and committed group of people.

For information and interviews

Sue Park

ph 8388 2158 (h)

0408 971 306

82025111 (w)

 

For Further Comment
Mark Henley Senior Policy Officer	8202 5135 (w) 0404 067 011 (mob)