Nicky is the CEO of Community Industry Group, with extensive experience in community services, local government, marketing, tertiary education, finance, and small business ownership. In addition to her busy role, she serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director of aged care provider, Warrigal, is Deputy Chair of Regional Development Australia Illawarra Shoalhaven, and Chair of the Board of Wollongong Conservatorium of Music. Nicky holds degrees in Dementia Care, Community and Environment, Marketing, and Project Management, is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and an Honorary Fellow of the University of Wollongong.

Katelin is a Project & Policy Officer specialising in Aged Care. Her background is in journalism, communications, campaigns and advocacy. She graduated the University of Wollongong with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours), worked with the Illawarra Mercury, served as the Director of journalists’ section of the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) and is a passionate community advocate.

Donna is a Policy & Project Officer specialising in children, families, and young people, with a focus on supporting Targeted Early Intervention (TEI) providers in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Management & Legal Studies) along with a vast array of vocational qualifications in business, leadership, and community services. With over 20 years of experience across NGOs and NFPs in the Illawarra, Shoalhaven, and South West Sydney regions, Donna brings a wealth of knowledge in the community service sector having successfully led a range of programs and services improving outcomes for vulnerable communities.

Ed is committed to driving quality service delivery and change management for positive outcomes across communities. He has held operational, project, training, and management roles at regional, state, and national levels, delivering innovative support services for people with disability and young people in care. Ed actively supports his community as President of the Illawarra Bicycle Users Group and advocates for liveable communities. A skilled communicator, he regularly contributes opinion pieces to the Illawarra Mercury on active transport. Passionate about systemic reform, Ed champions initiatives that strengthen communities and improve support outcomes.

Tina has extensive financial, administration and community work experience in the community services sector, within the Illawarra area. She has Advanced Certificates in Accounting, Community Services, Counselling and Financial Counselling. Tina’s diverse exposure to the sector has made her highly adaptable and knowledgeable, enabling her to approach financial management with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and needs within the community services sector. 

Tanya is a Project & Policy Officer and currently coordinates the STARS Volunteer Program, which supports older people blocked in hospital to access aged care services. She has extensive experience in workforce development, with a background in retail, telecommunications, local government, mental health, aged care, and the tertiary sector. Tanya holds a degree in Adult Education and Human Resources Management from UTS and a Master’s Degree in Strategic Organisational Development from UNE. She is also an active community member, serving as secretary of her local community garden and supporting the local men’s shed.

Mark Sewell is a seasoned leader in the aged care and community services sector. He is a Director of Ageing Australia, Wesley Mission, and Grand Pacific Health, bringing extensive governance and strategic expertise to these roles. Mark previously served as CEO of Warrigal and has held leadership positions as Regional Councillor at Business Illawarra and Chair of the Lighthouse and Cedars boards. His wealth of experience supports his commitment to driving positive outcomes in aged care and community services.

Melissa brings a background in financial services, retail, small business, and office management, offering a well-rounded skill set to our organisation. Melissa manages our Homelessness Health Program, Membership and Event bookings, handling multiple responsibilities with professionalism and efficiency, making her an indispensable part of our team, contributing significantly to our mission and overall success. As the events planner for our Community Service Awards, Melissa also ensures each event is a success.

Jade is a Project & Policy Officer with responsibility for the CareForce Careers Project. Jade has a strong focus on enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations, particularly in aged care. With a proven track record in quality improvement, compliance, and innovative care practices, Jade excels at fostering collaborative environments and building strong community relationships. Her expertise spans complex case management, risk management, and regulatory compliance, ensuring exceptional care delivery. Holding a Bachelor of Healthy Ageing and currently pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Leadership, Jade combines academic knowledge with hands-on experience, including roles as a Quality Manager/Acting Facility Manager and Therapeutic Specialist.

Therese brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to creativity and excellence to her role at CI Group. With a 20-year career in advertising, including global engagements with prestigious agencies like Saatchi & Saatchi, she has honed her skills in producing beautiful work that resonates with audiences across cultures and contexts. Therese is a creative powerhouse and brings creative flair to all aspects of her job. Her primary focus for 2025 will be producing a new website for Community Industry Group alongside her work as Marketing and Communications Co-Ordinator.

Renee is a Project and Policy Officer, providing whole of sector support. With extensive experience in local government, Renee is a dedicated community development professional specialising in community safety, program delivery. Working across the whole of community, Renee has experience in case management and working with vulnerable communities, and excels at capacity building and developing strong networks and partnerships. Nearing completion of a Diploma of Community Services, Renee brings a versatile skill set and a strong commitment to enhancing community wellbeing.