In a significant development for South Australia’s healthcare sector, Dr. John Brayley, SA Health’s chief psychiatrist, has announced his decision to step down after more than seven years in the role. This announcement was made by Dr. Robyn Lawrence, the chief executive for the Department for Health and Wellbeing. Dr. Brayley, who began his tenure in 2018, will continue until the end of his contract in May 2026, with recruitment for his successor set to commence shortly.
Dr. Brayley has been instrumental in several key initiatives during his tenure. He was pivotal in the development of a new inspection regime for mental health services and spearheaded the Mental Health Services Plan 2020-2025. His office also played a crucial role in reviewing new hospital plans, completing the technical work behind the Suicide Prevention Act 2021, and championing supported decision-making in mental health.
Alongside his role as chief psychiatrist, Dr. Brayley holds academic positions at Flinders University and is a practicing consultant psychiatrist. His extensive experience includes serving as the chief medical officer for the Australian Border Force and holding various leadership roles within South Australia’s mental health services.
Festival City Adelaide Welcomes New CEO
In the arts and cultural sector, Festival City Adelaide (FCA) has appointed Glyn Roberts as its new CEO, succeeding Justyna Jochym. Roberts, who will start in October, brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as Team Manager Creative Communities at Townsville City Council. He has also served as the Festival Director and CEO of the Castlemaine State Festival.
Festival City Adelaide board chair Govert Mellink expressed confidence in Roberts’ ability to lead FCA into a new phase of growth. “We are confident we have found the right person in Glyn to develop our opportunities into world-leading programs,” Mellink stated.
Roberts aims to further cement Adelaide’s reputation as the festival capital of Australia by focusing on education, training, and innovation in the festival industry. “We will be doing this across many important areas, such as education and training, workforce management, sustainability, cultural diplomacy, and regional engagement,” he said.
Haigh’s Chocolates Appoints First Non-Family CEO
In a historic move for Haigh’s Chocolates, Peter Millard has been appointed as the first non-family CEO in the company’s 110-year history. Millard, who has been with Haigh’s for 19 years, takes over from Alister Haigh, who led the business for three decades. Millard expressed his commitment to maintaining the quality of Haigh’s premium chocolates, stating, “Alongside the family, I remain passionate about preserving the enduring quality of Haigh’s premium chocolate.”
Strategic Communications Leadership at Sport SA
Ali Clarke, a former radio host with over 20 years in media, has joined Sport SA to lead strategic communications and marketing. Clarke, who previously hosted Mix 102.3, aims to leverage her media and communication skills to foster community engagement through sport. Sport SA CEO Leah Cassidy highlighted Clarke’s strong connection to grassroots sport as a significant asset for the organization.
Leadership Changes Across Various Sectors
FMG Engineering has appointed Adam Creek as its CEO, succeeding Matthew Loftes, who will focus on business growth. Creek, with over 30 years of experience, will lead FMG’s expansion across multiple disciplines.
Meanwhile, Cara, a disability service provider, has announced several key appointments, including Michael Kromwyk as deputy CEO and Meredith Waterhouse as general manager of business development. Kromwyk will lead strategic initiatives to enhance supported living services, while Waterhouse will focus on business development and marketing strategies.
East Waste has welcomed Leonard Leyland as its new general manager, bringing over two decades of experience in logistics and operational excellence. Leyland aims to provide strategic direction and enhance service delivery to member councils.
In the healthcare sector, Dr. Christian Verdicchio has been appointed as head of corporate affairs and strategy for Advara HeartCare. Verdicchio will work on establishing partnerships and driving national improvements in cardiovascular healthcare.
Finally, the Flinders University Museum of Art (FUMA) has appointed Dr. Belinda Howden as its senior curator. Howden brings extensive experience in the university and gallery sectors and aims to foster critical engagement with art and culture.
These leadership changes across various sectors in South Australia highlight a dynamic shift towards strategic growth and development, with a focus on innovation, community engagement, and maintaining high standards of service and quality.
