Social Ventures Australia (SVA) is delighted to announce that Dr Lisa O’Brien, CEO of The Smith Family has been appointed to the SVA Board. This follows the resignation of long serving member Elaine Henry OAM.

Dr O’Brien has over 20 years experience in leadership roles in the health, community services, bio-technology and information technology industries. Dr O’Brien is a registered medical practitioner and specialist medical administrator. Prior to joining The Smith Family she was CEO of the Skin and Cancer Foundation of Australia.

SVA Chair Paul Robertson AM said: ‘I look forward to working closely with Lisa as we enter the next phase of SVA’s development. The Smith Family’s focus on education is strongly aligned with SVA’s belief that improving education outcomes for disadvantaged Australians is one of the foundations for social change. Lisa’s knowledge and networks in education along with her broader leadership experience will be a significant asset to SVA.’

Reflecting on Ms Henry’s time on the SVA Board, Mr Robertson added: ‘I would also like to take the opportunity to acknowledge and thank Elaine for her service and contribution to SVA over the past nine years. Elaine is passionate about improving the lives of those most vulnerable in our community and as one of SVA’s founding directors, she has played an important role in guiding and influencing the direction and focus of SVA’s work.’

Dr O’Brien’s appointment to the SVA Board was effective as of 17 October 2011.