Australian Red Cross CEO Andrew Colvin announces retirement

Australian Red Cross has today announced that Chief Executive Officer Andrew Colvin intends to retire from the organisation.

After careful consideration, Mr Colvin has advised the Board of his decision to step back from executive leadership following more than two decades in demanding leadership roles.

Australian Red Cross Board Chair Claire Rogers said the Board was very supportive of Mr Colvin's decision.

“Andrew is a deeply respected and well-loved leader, and it has been a privilege to work with him during his time as CEO,” Ms Rogers said.

“His leadership has been marked by clarity of purpose, integrity, and a deep commitment to the humanitarian mission of Australian Red Cross.”

“On behalf of the Board, I thank Andrew sincerely for his leadership, service and contribution to Australian Red Cross,” Ms Rogers said.

In announcing his decision, Mr Colvin said leading the organisation had been a profound privilege.

“Leading Australian Red Cross has been one of the greatest honours of my professional life,” Mr Colvin said.

“Working alongside such committed members, volunteers, staff and partners has been both humbling and inspiring. I am proud of what we have begun together and confident in the organisation’s future. This is a personal decision that allows me to step back from executive leadership while continuing to support a strong and thoughtful transition.”

During his time at Australian Red Cross, Mr Colvin has overseen the development of a new organisational strategy framework which has been recently endorsed by the Board. This strategy is set to position the organisation to thrive in a complex and changing humanitarian environment.

Ms Rogers said the Board was unequivocally committed to the strategy Mr Colvin has led.

“This strategy is strong, focused on our organisational strengths and exactly what Australian Red Cross needs,” she said.

Mr Colvin will continue in his role until 30th June and is fully committed to supporting a smooth and considered handover. To ensure continuity during this period, the Board has asked Penny Harrison to step into the role of Acting CEO.

“As our current Deputy CEO, Penny is well known for her deep humanitarian and leadership experience as well as her long-standing contribution to Australian Red Cross. The Board and I are very much looking forward to working alongside her as we prepare to launch our new organisational strategy,” said Ms Rogers.

Further information about Australian Red Cross’ new CEO will be shared once a recruitment process has been conducted.

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Media inquiries: media@redcross.org.au or 1800 733 443