New CEO Delia Donovan will empower White Ribbon’s community
Today, White Ribbon Australia Chair, John Rosewarne, proudly announced the appointment of Delia Donovan as the new CEO of White Ribbon Australia. Ms Donovan has been Acting CEO for the past four months.
Mr Rosewarne said the Board of Directors is delighted to formally appoint Ms Donovan. “Over the past four months Delia has demonstrated her capability to lead our national organisation, building consensus with key stakeholders, and resetting the organisation for a vibrant future. We are confident that her expertise and leadership gained across the social care sector in Australia and the UK will springboard a new era for White Ribbon Australia,” said Mr Rosewarne.
Ms Donovan has outlined her key strategic priorities. “I am determined to focus on the unique role White Ribbon has to play in addressing the root causes of men’s violence again women, using a collaborative approach with communities around the country,” said Ms Donovan.
“White Ribbon Australia has a crucial role to play in sustaining the social change Australia needs and seeks. We firmly believe that investing in behavioural change of this magnitude needs courage, tenacity and a willingness to work in difficult spaces. We will focus on working collaboratively, using our evidence-based primary prevention programs and our large community reach to address this national emergency.”
Ms Donovan said she was also focused on the work needed to address the challenges the organisation has faced over the past few months. “I’ve looked very closely at the way the organisation has been operating and we have learned and made immediate changes and commitments. We have taken important steps to address current financial challenges to ensure we maintain our movement and rebuild trust with the community,” said Ms Donovan.
“Over the coming months we will be refining the roles and purpose of our network of Ambassadors, Advocates, supporters and community leaders who are passionate about leading and delivering transformational change across Australia. We are determined to continue to hold ourselves to account and invest in strong cooperative, transparent leadership and participation in each community.
“While closely working with government, sector partners and our supporters, the Board and the leadership team will continue the renewal and refocus of White Ribbon’s strategic planning and governance. These adjustments will underpin our commitment to our partners, stakeholders and to our new global sector stakeholders.”
Ms Donovan brings with her extensive experience in non-government and social services settings in Australia and the United Kingdom, drawing on 15 years in frontline social work and social care management roles including her last role as CEO of a local domestic abuse charity supporting 6000 clients year on year. Prior to being promoted to Acting CEO Ms Donovan was Director of Community & Programs, and played a key role in the development and implementation of White Ribbon’s successful schools, workplaces, and community prevention programs.
