SVA has appointed Dr Mark Herbertt as Queensland Director. Mark brings a depth of strategy, change management and information and communication technology expertise, with significant roles in the non-profit, private and public sectors in Australia and overseas.
Mark commented ‘I’m delighted to be joining SVA at an exciting time. The state government is looking at innovative social sector financing models, and philanthropists are keenly interested in helping those who need better opportunities in education and employment. There’s extensive support the SVA Consulting team can offer to improve outcomes in the social sector. I’m looking forward to helping create a stronger state for all Queenslanders.’
SVA offers support, advice and engagement opportunities to potential social investors with interests in education, employment and social investment. Since 2006, SVA has supported the growth of over 60 Qld social enterprises in collaborative projects with local, state and federal government.
SVA’s Social Impact Fund, which has private investment matched to government funding, has granted a loan to Ability Enterprises in Toowoomba. Ability’s social goal is to create 60 jobs for people with disabilities.
SVA works closely with ventures in our national portfolio to assist their growth through regional Qld. Ventures supported in Queensland include Career Trackers, recycler North Queensland Green Solutions, Fair Business, the Australia Indigenous Mentoring Foundation (AIME), Beacon Foundation and The Song Room .
In 2013 SVA partnered with QUT and the Origin Foundation around the Exceptional Teachers for Disadvantaged Schools Project. This Queensland program is now being rolled out nationally, to prepare the best teachers to work in the toughest schools.
Queensland’s Bryan Foundation has partnered with SVA since 2009 supporting innovative ventures and helping to drive the national education initiatives.
Lisa Siganto, previously SVA Queensland Director, has become CEO of the Stronger Smarter Institute, founded by Dr. Chris Sarra. SVA will continue to support the Stronger Smarter Institute.
