SVA’s founding CEO Michael Traill, AM has launched a memoir, Jumping Ship, sharing his personal and professional journey from small town Victoria to the ‘Millionaire’s Factory’, to leading a unique social purpose organisation unlike any other in Australia.

It delves into some of the well-known partnerships SVA helped drive during Michael’s time at the helm, including a behind the scenes look at the deal that created Goodstart Early Learning from the collapsed ABC Learning centres.

Michael said the book was conceived out of a desire to share what he had learned in the 15 years since he ‘jumped ship’ to the social sector.

‘I wanted to illustrate the difference that practical solutions involving the business, non-profit and government sectors could have on entrenched social challenges – and SVA has played an instrumental role in bringing together these partners to achieve measurable social good.’

‘I also hope the book will be a thought provoking read for people who want to bring their professional skills to work that’s more aligned with their personal values. I’ve been fortunate to meet many people who’ve made this happen in a variety of ways and I share many of these stories, as well as my own, in the book.’

SVA CEO Rob Koczkar thanked Michael for the foundations laid during his time at SVA.

‘Many of the ideas that have become mainstream in the social purpose sector were pioneered by SVA under Michael’s leadership. Venture philanthropy, impact investing and social impact measurement were niche concepts when Michael became an advocate for them, and they’re now part of common practice in the social sector.’

‘Each of us at SVA feel privileged to have the opportunity to build on what Michael started; partnering with funders and service providers to ensure resources are directed to what the evidence shows will improve the lives of people in need, and to new innovations that hold the promise of a bigger impact.’

All royalties from the book will go to the work of SVA.