RDA BGLAP is preparing for a carefully managed leadership transition, with Sarah Day appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer, as current CEO Jennifer Lynch prepares to take up a new role as Executive Director, Industry & Regional Development at Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA).
Jennifer will conclude her position with RDA BGLAP on Friday 7 August. Sarah has already joined the organisation and is working closely with Jennifer through a thorough handover covering the organisation’s people, regional partnerships, current priorities and operations.
Although Jennifer is moving on from RDA BGLAP, her new role will keep her closely connected to regional development across South Australia. She will continue to work directly with the state’s RDA network, with responsibilities spanning significant regional initiatives including the Regional Leadership Development Program and Regional Drought Resilience Program. Her role will also encompass South Australia’s primary industries funds, which support organisations including Barossa Australia.
RDA BGLAP Chair Rolf Binder said the transition had been structured to provide continuity for the organisation and the region it serves.
“Jennifer has provided outstanding leadership and made an invaluable contribution to RDA BGLAP. On behalf of the Board, I thank her for her commitment to the organisation and our region. While we will miss Jennifer’s day-to-day leadership, it is wonderful to know that her experience, deep understanding of and commitment to regional South Australia will continue to benefit the broader RDA network. Her new role remains closely aligned with the aspirations we share for strong, resilient regional communities and economies.”
“We congratulate Jennifer on her appointment and look forward to continuing to work with her in this new capacity.”
Mr Binder also said the Board was also confident Sarah would provide strong and capable leadership while recruitment for a permanent CEO continues.
“Sarah brings extensive experience in business improvement, program management, analysis and operational delivery, together with a practical and collaborative approach,” he said.
“Her appointment provides important continuity for our team, partners and regional stakeholders, allowing us to remain firmly focused on delivering our Strategic and Operational Plans and advancing the priorities that matter to the Barossa, Gawler, Light and Adelaide Plains region.”
Sarah brings more than 30 years of experience across corporate environments and the wine industry in South Australia and New South Wales. Her career has spanned business process improvement, program and project delivery, customer service, sales, learning and development, and business analysis. Throughout her career, Sarah has helped organisations strengthen their systems, turn data into meaningful insights and develop practical solutions that improve performance. She also brings a strong belief in the value of positive workplace culture, capable people and effective processes.
“RDA BGLAP plays an important role in bringing together business, government and community around the opportunities and challenges shaping this region, and I am delighted to support the organisation through this transition and help maintain momentum across its strategic priorities, partnerships and program delivery.”
Recruitment for a permanent Chief Executive Officer will continue during Sarah’s interim appointment. In the meantime, RDA BGLAP’s work continues as planned, with a clear focus on coordinating regional priorities, supporting sustainable economic development and advocating for the infrastructure, business and liveability outcomes our region needs.