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Our people

YSAS employ over 380 specialist staff across Victoria, all connected by our belief in the resilience and potential of young people.

Leadership Team

Andrew Bruun

CEO

Andrew is the Chief Executive Officer at YSAS and an Honorary Fellow at the University of Melbourne, Department of Psychiatry. Andrew has been active in the alcohol and other drug (AOD) and adolescent health fields as a manager, practitioner, researcher and educator since 1985. Andrew was a member of the YSAS implementation team and has been a Director, serving on that organisation’s Executive team since inception in 1998. Prior to his involvement with YSAS, Andrew was the joint managing-director of Task Force Community Agency, a drug and alcohol treatment service in Melbourne’s inner-south where he established programs for young people and families. Andrew has also worked in the dual diagnosis (Mental health and AOD) field with the Federal Government’s Community Rehabilitation Services and he established the first community youth outreach service for Victorian Department of Planning and Development housing estates in Melbourne’s Inner Northern Suburbs.

Pat O’Leary

Deputy CEO

Pat is a mental health operations and service development professional with over three decades experience in the primary and specialist mental health sectors. Pat hold a Bachelor of Human Service and Masters of Public Policy & Management. Pat has previously worked extensively in service development roles beginning in the 1990’s with the decommissioning and rebuilding of the Victorian Mental Health system, for five years on building the National headspace network, and most recently with Beyond Blue on the National rollout of ‘The Way Back’, an aftercare service for people who have attempted suicide. Operationally, Pat has previously managed the Child and Youth Mental Health Service at Austin Health and the Community Mental Health Service at the RCH. Pat also had significant early career experience in the Youth Justice and Homeless service systems, and for three years managed the Community Infrastructure Group at Sport and Recreation Victoria.

Anne King

CFO & Corporate Services

Anne is an experienced financial executive with over 30 years’ experience specialising in private banking, financial reporting and leading diverse teams. Since leaving banking she has focused on For Benefit organisations by providing financial consulting services to NFPs and their Boards, leading corporate service teams and improving management reporting. As the Chief of Finance and Corporate Services she is responsible for leading the functional areas of finance, human resources, ICT, business planning and strategy, and legal and compliance. Anne holds a Bachelor of Business Accounting, a Grad Dip in Applied Finance and Investment, a Grad Dip in Psychology and is a Fellow of CPA Australia. She has been a Rotarian for over 20 years and is passionate about helping those experiencing disadvantage. She recognises that early access to appropriate services is the key to young people improving their long-term prospects.

Dom Ennis

General Manager Quality & Service Development

Dom is the General Manager of Quality and Service Development at YSAS. He is responsible for the ongoing development of quality systems and operational processes that are crucial to optimal service delivery. This role works closely with the operational leaders to ensure the cycle of improvement is embedded across YSAS. He is an adaptable, sector leader with an extensive range of skills cultivated through diverse roles and experiences. He is an inclusive, values-based leader driven by a genuine service ethos and tries to inspire the same in others. He is also on the Board of Directors for VAADA, the Drug and Alcohol sector peak body. What Dom loves most about YSAS is that the organisation’s purpose is never far from any discussion, decision or initiative. He also loves the wonderful people he gets to work with.

Ray Jackson

General Manager Community Services North West

Ray has a background in Project Management and Program Management with twenty years experience working across the social services sector (public and private) implementing efficiency gains projects focussed on service development initiatives and improving service delivery both operationally and strategically. As a leader, Ray has worked in numerous project/program management roles across the primary (community) and secondary (hospital) healthcare networks in New Zealand including Health and Disability Services (Auditing and Compliance), Clinical Health Pathways Design and Development, Maori and Pacific Health Services and Mental Health. Ray recently joined YSAS in June 2021 after finishing his role as Suicide Prevention Lead at Beyond Blue implementing a suicide prevention initiative across Australia. ‘I’m keen on influencing systemic change through my work – I’m passionate about raising the profile of the minority, embedding diversity and cultural awareness, highlighting and addressing inequities, supporting implementation of early intervention and prevention initiatives across the sector. The reason I came to YSAS is to focus on supporting young people in need, to steer them in the right direction through the suite of service offerings.

Fotini Strongylos

General Manager SE Headspace and Community AOD

Fotini is a purpose-led Community Services Executive with a strong commitment to improving client outcomes. She has experience in leading significant transformational reform across the health and not-for-profit sectors and is recognised for her exceptional leadership and governance skills. Fotini has considerable experience within the sector, and has held a previous role as Executive General Manager for Mental Health & Wellbeing at South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network. Fotini has also held senior roles for Monash Health in areas of performance, improvement, strategy, access and quality.

Aji Akintola

General Manager Residential & Primary Care Services

Aji’s career extends over 16 years in mental health having undertaken a range of clinical, managerial and policy development roles in metropolitan and specialist state-wide public mental health services. Over the past 7 years Aji has led and participated in numerous service level reviews and investigations following critical incidents. His interests include service development and redesign, service improvement and quality systems. He is a Registered Nurse and holds Bachelor of Nursing, Post Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Nursing, Master of Health Management and a Master of Nursing Science.

Tracey Martin

General Manager Community Programs

Tracey has 30 years’ experience in the youth and family sector, with a background in case management, counselling and consultancy with over 10 years’ experience in management roles. As the General Manager of Community Programs, Tracey is responsible for the strategic leadership of service delivery in the region. The role is responsible for leading teams, program operations and stakeholder relationships. Tracey has a range of qualifications including Diploma of Youth Work, Bachelor of Social Work, and Diploma of Leadership and Management. Tracey has a particular passion for supporting young people connected to statutory systems (Justice and Child Protection) and is a strong advocate for youth work models that embed family inclusive practice.

Benaifer Sabavala

General Manager Human Resources

Benaifer joined YSAS recently as the General Manager, Human Resources. She has extensive experience in complex and challenging environments, has held senior leadership roles in Health and Community Services, Education, Manufacturing industries across Private, Public, State Government and Not-For-Profit sectors. Benaifer brings contemporary strategic thinking, holding post graduate qualifications in Public Administration, Management Studies, Human Resources Management, Training, Commerce and Law. Benaifer is values-driven and outcome-focused professional, working with key stakeholders to drive organisational transformation, cultural change and people strategies. She is keen to actively contribute to YSAS’ strategic priorities, building its agility and capability. She believes that an organisation with a great culture will be a great place to work and learn, attracting and retaining talented staff to support the health and wellbeing of our young people. Benaifer says that the most enjoyable part at YSAS is its inclusive and collaborative culture, with friendly people having utmost dedication to client service.

Jason Nanayakkara

Finance Manager

Jason is passionate about working with funders, partners, operations and back office teams, to support front line services and ensure long term financial sustainability of YSAS. Jason comes from a corporate finance background, working in large listed companies with experience in financial planning and analysis, reporting, and business partnering. As the Finance Manager, Jason is responsible for overseeing the finance function, including financial reporting, budgeting and forecasting, audit and compliance. Jason holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Melbourne, a Diploma of Leadership and Management, and is a CPA. One of the most inspiring things about YSAS and the sector is the people, passionate and engaged teams working together across our sites and support functions, engaging with young people and communities to advocate for good.

Andrea Fernandes

Strategy & Planning Manager

Andrea is the Strategy and Planning Manager at YSAS. Since starting at YSAS in 2012, she has had roles in project management, contract governance, business process and system implementation, and more lately, strategic and annual planning. Andrea has an MBA (Social Impact) from UNSW, and Bachelors of Arts and Commerce (Honours) including research on diversity and social inclusion. She has completed The Observership Program where she further developed skills in not-for-profit board governance and strategy. Andrea is also a Board Director and Treasurer at YWCA Hunter, and volunteers with other organisations in the sector. Andrea is committed to YSAS’ purpose through planning, reporting, and supporting teams to connect with the organisation’s strategic aims and to work cohesively towards positive outcomes for young people, families and communities.

Chris Chen

ICT Manager

Chris Chen is the ICT Manager at YSAS where he oversees YSAS’ strategic IT projects and operations. Before YSAS, Chris was the ICT Manager for AU & NZ at Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Harley-Davison. He has a track record for building ICT teams committed to service excellence and delivering robust, secure, and cost-effective technical solutions. He has a Bachelor of Science in Computing Science degree from The University of Technology Sydney and holds industry certifications in project management and cyber security. Outside the office, Chris enjoys traveling, the arts, and sports; go, Chelsea!

Tienyi Long

Legal & Compliance Manager

Tienyi is an in-house lawyer with experience in the higher education, government and not-for-profit sectors. As Legal and Compliance Manager, Tienyi manages YSAS’ governance, compliance, integrity, contract management, business continuity and insurance functions. Tienyi graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Arts majoring in Spanish and Latin American Studies. Tienyi is passionate about supporting young people, particularly from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Board Members

Judge Michael Bourke

Appointed 31 August 2020

His Honour Judge Michael Bourke has contributed to research and advocacy for the rights of young people who encounter the criminal justice system and strongly advocates for agencies that provide support services. Michael has been a Barrister since 1981 and was appointed as a County Court Judge in 2002 and Chair of Youth Parole Board in 2006. He holds a Bachelor of Laws through Melbourne University. He became interested in helping young people who come from the most disadvantaged situations in the community through his interactions with them at the Youth Parole Board and at the Victorian Bar. Special responsibilities: Chair of the YSAS Board, Chair Remuneration and Nominations Sub-Committee and Member Strategy Sub-Committee

Dr Adam Pastor

Appointed 31 August 2020

Adam is an Addiction Medicine Physician with a special interest in the impact of substance use on young people with a medical illness. He peer reviews for scientific journals, teaching students and junior doctors, and contributing to national guidelines regarding substance use treatment. He currently works as a specialist physician at St Vincent’s and The Alfred Hospitals and is a former Director of Addiction Medicine in the Northern Territory. Adam is a member of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians Chapter of Addiction Medicine and has a PhD from the University of Melbourne. Adam is motivated by his interactions with young people and the staff at YSAS who consistently demonstrate the ability to ‘meet people where they are’. Special responsibilities: Member Health & Clinical Governance Sub-Committee.

Catherine Buckmaster

Appointed 26 August 2019

Cathy is an experienced Finance professional with over 20 years’ experience, specialising in financial reporting, stakeholder management, project delivery and governance. Cathy has a background in professional and financial services and has strong technical knowledge of accounting, finance, risk and compliance matters. At Coles Cathy is responsible for managing the communication of the Group’s strategy and ASX market disclosures. Catherine holds a Bachelor of Business in Accounting, is a Chartered Accountant, and a member of the Australia and New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants. Catherine also holds a Graduate Diploma in Applied Corporate Governance and Risk Management. Cathy is passionate about ensuring that YSAS’ strategic direction is aligned to the voices of young people. Special responsibilities: Chair Risk & Audit Sub-Committee, Member Remuneration and Nominations Sub-Committee and Member Strategy Sub-Committee

David Murray

Appointed 15 March 2021

David Murray has worked with marginalised young people for over 40 years as a practitioner, supervisor, manager, policy advocate and board member of youth organisations. His career has spanned many aspects the youth sector including senior roles in Government and he was previously the Managing Director of YSAS. He has established a number of projects and programs for young people with complex needs and has been a member of a number of Minister’s Advisory committees relating to drugs, alcohol and young people. David is currently the General Manager of Policy and Advocacy at Jesuit Social Services. David has a Bachelor of Arts (History), a Diploma in Criminology and a Master of Arts (Social Policy). He has a particular interest in developing services that respond to the needs of young people who present with complex issues of drug use, mental illness, and homelessness, self-harm and offending behaviour.

Jorden Lam

Appointed 31 August 2020

Jorden is a senior leader with broad professional experience in governance, business operations and transformation and law, spanning across the legal, financial services and health Jorden has a technical background in law and has held a variety of senior roles from General Counsel & Company Secretary to General Manager of Operations and Service Delivery, in the financial services and superannuation sector. As the current Head of Member Services and Operations at HESTA Super, Jorden is responsible for leading core business functions supporting business transformation, insurance, dispute resolution/complaints, pension and retirement services and account administration services. Jorden holds a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Laws, is a licensed Australian legal practitioner, and graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She is passionate about furthering social support services offered to vulnerable members of the community and has contributed to YSAS as an independent member of the Audit and Risk Committee since 2019. Special responsibilities: Member Risk & Audit Sub-Committee.

Margarita Frederico

Appointed 24 June 2019

Margarita Frederico AM Emeritus Professor Frederico is an experienced social work practitioner and teaches and researches in social work. Her focus is on child and family wellbeing, child protection and trauma, and community empowerment leadership and governance in Human Services and evaluation. She currently teaches Social Work and Social Policy at La Trobe University and is a Graduate Research Coordinator in Social Work and Social Policy. She is also a Principal Research Consultant at Berry Street’s Take Two Program, a partnership with La Trobe University, Mindful, and the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA). She has a Diploma of Social Studies, Bachelor of Arts, Master of Social Work and Doctor of Science. Margarita believes that all young people should have the opportunity to thrive and, that those who need it, are able to be supported by the services of YSAS.

Sarah Ralph

Appointed 31 August 2020

Sarah is a senior leader in her field, with over 25 years’ experience as an employment lawyer. She is an employment law partner and head of the EY law practice in Oceania, she acts for employers, including not-for profits on employment law, industrial relations, human rights, governance, risk and government law. Sarah has a Bachelor of Laws and Arts degree from Monash University and a Master of Laws from The University of Melbourne and is a member of the Law Institute of Victoria. Sarah is passionate about YSAS and the YSAS community, having gone through many of the drug and addiction issues that impact young people and their families, with a close family member. Sarah knows first hand how important YSAS programs are for the future of our young people. Special responsibilities: Member Risk & Audit Sub-Committee.

Sean Hanneberry

Appointed 10 March 2017

Sean has worked in marketing and advertising for nearly two decades across Australia and the UK and has worked with leading organisations across the private sector and government to drive more effective marketing and customer experiences. Prior to his current role as the Managing Director of Threefold where he helps organisations transform their customer and brand experience, he was the Melbourne Managing Director of the global communications agency, SapientNitro. Sean holds a Bachelor of Business (Economics and Marketing) from Swinburne University. With a young family of his own, Sean is passionate about ensuring that young people have a voice to ensure they are provided with the best possible support and services when in need. Special responsibilities: Chair Advocacy and Communications Sub-Committee, Member Strategy Sub-Committee and Deputy Chair of the Board.

Caitlin Gill

Appointed 23 May 2023

Caitlin has practiced as a lawyer for 18 years, working in private practice and in-house and company secretary roles, with a focus on good governance and delivering quality strategic, risk, and legal advice. She has a strong background in corporate and commercial law and has worked in funds management for 11 years. She joined St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne in 2021 and is the Director of Legal and Enterprise Risk. Caitlin holds a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Laws and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Special responsibilities: Member Risk & Audit Sub-Committee Caitlin is passionate about growing and leading connected and engaged teams to deliver commercial legal and risk advice in the public health sector.