Important announcement from our CareSouth Board of Directors.
Deb Tozer, our esteemed CEO, colleague and friend to many, will be retiring at the end of this year.
On behalf of the Board, it is with much regret that we say farewell to Deb over the coming six months. I have seen first-hand Deb’s unique combination of tenacity, drive, humanity and compassion that have made her a truly great leader and we really thank her for her incredible contribution over the last 7 years. Deb will leave an indelible impression on the lives of many.
CareSouth makes a difference in the lives of thousands of people each year. Under Deb’s leadership we were able to grow that number considerably, reaching into new areas of need stretching across the state. Our assets, resources and revenue grew in a measured and careful manner allowing us to meet ever growing challenges and double our reach. Our strength today comes from Deb’s stewardship.
Deb has rightfully been recognised as a Business Leader of the Year in the NSW Business Awards and then steered CareSouth to victory to be the first not-for profit organisation to win the prestigious Business of the Year Award in the Shoalhaven. These awards are testament to her bringing the organisation into a new era where we stand toe to toe with the best run commercial businesses in the country.
Apart from Deb’s robust business acumen is her deep understanding of the challenges faced by those we support. Deb started her career working with children, families and young people in residential care, and her leadership qualities saw her progress to managing teams and organisations. Her career progression took place all whilst raising her five children along with husband Steve. A remarkable achievement and an inspiration to many.
Reflecting on her career Deb recently said “I have been extremely fortunate to work with thousands of young people who have inspired me to forge ahead and advocate for change and to support the sector. I have also witnessed the enormous generosity of carers and staff who dedicate their lives to helping others. I am both excited and sad that my retirement will end my much loved role with CareSouth. I’ve felt privileged to be the CEO of this remarkable organisation. It is our people, culture and vision that define CareSouth, a tremendous organisation made great by so many – our staff and their predecessors should feel great pride for their contribution to CareSouth’s success.”
Deb’s dedication and contribution to the sector through her participation on the ACWA Board has been invaluable and her advice and opinion is often sought out by CEO’s from within and outside of the community sector. She is a role model and mentor to senior leaders as well as those just starting out in their careers. She has been a passionate advocate for children, young people and families and has taken that passion to the doors of parliament to fight for those who were unable to do so for themselves.
Over the next few months, we will be conducting a search to find the new CEO of CareSouth. We’re confident we’ll find an outstanding leader to carry on Deb’s legacy. An advertisement for the role of CEO is available on the CareSouth website, http://www.caresouth.org.au/ceo
The Board of CareSouth are optimistic and excited for the next chapter of CareSouth as we continue our valuable work within our communities.
Again, I can’t thank Deb enough for the dedication, passion, enthusiasm and motivation she has given CareSouth over the past 7 years. She will be greatly missed by our staff, Board, our clients and our many partners and stakeholders alike.
Finally, congratulations to Deb, it is never easy making a tough decision as exciting as this and I wish her all the very best in her retirement.
Best Wishes,
John Dorahy
Board Chairman
