The Western Australian Council of Social Service has announced the appointment of Ms Louise Giolitto as its new Chief Executive Officer. The current CEO, Irina Cattalini, will soon be leaving the Council to pursue new opportunities after more than a decade of dedicated service.
The Council’s President, Mr Steve Joske, said the Board was delighted to appoint Ms Giolitto to the role at a time when the Western Australian social services sector is sharply focused on improving outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged people in our community.
Ms Giolitto is a widely respected leader in the community service sector, who has served in numerous executive roles in the sector for more than twenty years. Her experience in the sector spans the fields of homelessness, housing, youth services, Aboriginal support programs, employment, education, training, mentoring, drug education, seniors and emergency. She has also lived in the Kimberley and worked extensively across the Pilbara which has provided her great insight into the needs of regional WA.
Ms Giolitto has a long standing commitment to WACOSS, having served for six years on the Board until 2014. Most recently, she has served as the Council’s Director of Services and Development, a key internal staff position, leading the training, consultancy and sector capacity building work in the community.
“Ms Giolitto has demonstrated exceptional leadership within the organisation and the sector. In the past sixteen months Louise has been part of the dedicated leadership team representing the voice of the sector at all levels of government and industry,” said Mr Joske.
“Western Australian community services are struggling under increased financial pressure, and vulnerable people are navigating complex systems, often unable to access vital services in times of need. In an environment of enormous change, challenges and opportunities, Ms Giolitto will provide strong leadership to bring the collective efforts of WACOSS members together to build stronger, safer, vibrant and inclusive communities.”
“Under the direction of Ms Cattalini, the Council has continued to grow as a powerful and influential leading peak body. Irina’s legacy leaves WACOSS as an incredibly strong peak, powerful in its actions with skilled, professional staff committed to the organisation’s mission. Ms Giolitto’s extensive experience across the wide spectrum of social services places her in the perfect position to build on these strengths and continue to champion the pursuit of improved outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged people in the Western Australian community and sustain the community services that provide them with care and support.”
Ms Cattalini leaves her role on Friday 25 November 2016. The Board and staff thank her for her tireless commitment to WACOSS and escalating the voice of those most in need.
Ms Giolitto will assume the new role from Monday 28 November 2016.
Media Contact:
Mark Fitzpatrick, WACOSS Vice President – 0437 780 565
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