In a significant leadership transition, Brenz Saunders has assumed the role of CEO at the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. This appointment follows a challenging period for the institute, which has remained closed to the public since April 2023. Saunders, who succeeds Phillip Saunders—unrelated to him—aims to rejuvenate Tandanya as a vibrant cultural hub.
Saunders emphasized his commitment to making Tandanya a space where culture thrives and inspires. “From the outset, Tandanya is a significantly important institution that holds many treasures that tell the stories of Aboriginal culture and the history of South Australia at large,” he stated. The institute’s Grenfell Street location has been described by Saunders as “visibly tired,” prompting discussions with the State Government and stakeholders to address infrastructural challenges.
Beyond his new role, Saunders is a prominent figure in various leadership positions. He is the founder and chair of Cheedoona, a digital sustainability consulting business, and chairs several boards, including the Alinytjara Wilurara Landscape Board and Tauondi Aboriginal College. His extensive involvement in community and educational organizations underscores his dedication to Aboriginal leadership and cultural preservation.
Leadership Changes Across South Australian Organizations
New Leadership at Vinnies SA
Clinton Jury has been appointed as the new CEO of the St Vincent de Paul Society SA (Vinnies SA), effective October 13. With over 30 years of leadership experience in purpose-driven organizations, Jury brings a wealth of expertise in governance, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. His previous roles include CEO of the Local Government Association of South Australia and senior positions at the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the Australian Red Cross.
Vinnies SA state president Geraldine Hawkes expressed confidence in Jury’s leadership, stating, “Clinton brings a rare combination of vision, experience, and heart. He has demonstrated time and again his ability to deliver meaningful outcomes for communities, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the Society.”
Alan Morrison to Lead ECH
Alan Morrison has been named CEO of ECH, a South Australian retirement living and in-home care provider, effective January 2026. Morrison, currently CEO of Burnside Hospital, has over two decades of leadership experience in the health sector. His past roles include CEO of Sportsmed and various positions at KPMG.
ECH chair Rosina Hislop praised Morrison’s innovative leadership and problem-solving skills, stating, “Alan is known for his innovative and insightful leadership and his ability to find original solutions for complex challenges.”
Defence SA Welcomes New Chair
The Defence SA Advisory Board has appointed Lieutenant General Rick Burr as its new chair, succeeding Vice Admiral Russ Crane. Burr, a former chief of the Australian Army, brings extensive defense expertise to the role. His appointment is part of a broader strategy to bolster South Australia’s defense capabilities, particularly in light of the upcoming SSN-AUKUS program.
Defence SA CEO Matt Opie highlighted Burr’s deep understanding of defense capabilities, stating, “Rick’s deep understanding of the Australian Defence Force will continue to provide important insight into defense capability for South Australia.”
Arts and Business Leadership Transitions
Katherine Fyffe Joins State Theatre Company
Katherine Fyffe is set to become the executive director of the State Theatre Company South Australia in January 2026. Fyffe, currently with Polyglot Theatre in Melbourne, brings over 25 years of experience in theatre production and management. Her appointment is expected to enhance the company’s artistic leadership and community engagement efforts.
State Theatre Company chair Joe Throp expressed enthusiasm for Fyffe’s appointment, noting her ability to combine artistic vision with financial stewardship.
Bernie White to Lead Silentium Defence’s Asia-Pacific Expansion
Silentium Defence has appointed army veteran Bernie White as head of future business for the Asia-Pacific region. White’s extensive experience in integrated air and missile defense, radar, and drone operations positions him to drive Silentium’s regional expansion in passive radar technology.
Silentium CEO James Palmer highlighted White’s expertise, stating, “Bernie brings unmatched expertise in integrated air and missile defense, radar, and drone operations at a time when demand for Silentium’s technology is growing rapidly across the region.”
New Appointments in Key Industries
Matthew Grantham Joins Meals on Wheels SA
Matthew Grantham has been appointed as the general manager of people and capability at Meals on Wheels SA. Grantham’s role will focus on enhancing the organization’s people and culture strategy, as well as driving capability development in infrastructure, technology, and systems.
Grantham emphasized the importance of adapting to sector changes, stating, “We must continue to meet the needs of customers and volunteers as they evolve with our changing lifestyles.”
Duxton Farms and Anatara Lifesciences Announce Board Changes
Mark Harvey has retired from Duxton Farms Ltd’s board due to health reasons, with Rachel Triggs stepping in as deputy chair. Meanwhile, Anatara Lifesciences has appointed Dirk van Dissel as a non-executive director, part of a board renewal process aimed at strengthening its biotechnology expertise.
Duxton Farms chair Ed Peter acknowledged Harvey’s contributions, stating, “Mark has been exceptionally generous in committing a significant portion of his time to Duxton Farms over the past eight years.”
These leadership changes reflect a dynamic period for South Australia’s corporate and cultural sectors, as organizations adapt to evolving challenges and opportunities. The new appointments bring fresh perspectives and expertise, promising to shape the future of these institutions and the communities they serve.
