Sue Cooke appointed Executive Director

ANGLICARE Southern Queensland has this week announced the appointment of Sue Cooke as its new Executive Director, replacing the highly-regarded Karen Crouch who led the organisation since 2012.

The announcement was made by Dr Kim Forrester, Chair of the Community Services Commission and Mr Tim Reid, General Manager of Anglican Church Southern Queensland on Tuesday 16 November, 2021.

Sue Cooke has been appointed Executive Director of Anglicare Southern Queensland this week.

Mrs Cooke joined Anglicare in 2010 and since 2012 has held the position of Director of Services, leading the service delivery team and playing a key role in the growth and development of Anglicare, with clients increasing from 30,000 to 50,000 and growth in staff and volunteers from 2000 to over 3000.

Her experience as a health professional, educator, operational manager, registered nurse and community services leader and her skills in person-centered care delivery, strategic planning, and effective liaison with stakeholders at all levels underpinned by an understanding and knowledge of relevant state and commonwealth legislative frameworks, ensures Anglicare can prepare and plan for significant reforms in the aged care, child safety, youth justice and human services sectors.

Mrs Cooke’s enabling qualifications include a Masters in Education, a Masters in Business Administration and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Mrs Cooke is also a Registered Nurse.

“To be a part of this story and to have this as part of your own story to tell, is a privilege and an honour,” Mrs Cooke said.

“This is a story of transforming lives, holding hope for those who struggle to hold hope for themselves and to provide an experience that focuses on the individual and their unique needs and ambitions.

“Throughout my time with Anglicare, I have received many opportunities and challenges to develop further as a health professional, as a manager and as a leader.

“The many people I have walked alongside in service or had the privilege to serve, have helped me to stretch to a higher level of leadership and I look forward to the opportunity to lead Anglicare as the Executive Director through the next chapter of its story.”

Mrs Cooke was selected following a thorough, national search process which resulted in a field of exceptional candidates. The interest in the position is a testament to the outstanding reputation of Anglicare Southern Queensland.

The Commission believes Sue’s experience with Anglicare, commitment to learning and innovation and unique mix of skills and leadership qualities position her for success in leading Anglicare Southern Queensland for many years to come.

Last year Anglicare Southern Queensland celebrated 150 years of caring for Queenslanders, proudly empowering generations of Queenslanders by providing care, compassion, and hope since 1870.