Rob Koczkar will succeed Michael Traill as Chief Executive of Social Ventures Australia (SVA) from October this year Paul Robertson, Chair, announced today, on behalf of the SVA Board. Michael will take on a new role as Executive Director.
Paul Robertson commented ‘As founding CEO Michael was instrumental to the introduction of venture philanthropy to Australia through the establishment of SVA. During Michael’s tenure SVA has generated more than $45 million of investment into the social sector and worked with more than 88 social ventures including the Beacon Foundation, Ganbina and AIME. Michael has continued to drive extraordinary initiatives like the GoodStart buyout, Australia’s largest social finance transaction. This move will allow Michael to continue to influence decision makers to find truly innovative solutions to some of Australia’s most pressing social problems’.
Michael Traill said ‘I’ve made the decision to concentrate greater energy on building and strengthening SVA’s external relationships, which will be my key focus as Executive Director. We’ve built an incredibly strong team, evidence base and depth of experience over the past 12 years and I believe there is great opportunity for SVA to further increase its impact. Having worked closely with Rob for many years, I am confident he will be an outstanding CEO. I look forward to working with Rob and our influential external network in extending the reach of our work.’
Paul Robertson continued ‘We are delighted Rob has agreed to join us as CEO. As a passionate believer in a fairer Australia, Rob is uniquely qualified to build on the great platform that has been established at SVA. This is a ‘win-win’ for SVA – Michael will remain closely involved with SVA and we will have an exceptional CEO.’
Rob Koczkar commented ‘This is a decision I’ve made based on my desire to make a greater contribution to building a fairer Australia. My involvement with SVA over the past few years has instilled in me a great respect for and confidence in the organisation, and reinforced my passion for finding innovative approaches to social challenges. I believe that SVA’s unique approach is a great match for my own background and skills set – so I jumped at the opportunity to take on this new role’.
Rob’s role will formally begin in October. Over the next eight months Rob and Michael, working closely with the SVA Board, will begin the transition process to ensure a seamless handover.
For more information
Patrick Flynn – Executive Director Marketing and Policy & Advocacy
Social Ventures Australia
