Uniting Executive Director, Peter Worland, has announced he will retire effective from June 2018 after five years in the role.
Chair of the Uniting Board, Heather Watson acknowledged Peter’s contribution to Uniting during his tenure.
“It is with great appreciation that we will farewell Peter as his commitment to the purpose of Uniting – to inspire people, enliven communities and confront injustice – has seen the organisation grow into one of the largest and most respected providers of social services across NSW and the ACT,” she said.
“Peter has led the organisation in a time of unprecedented change in the industry. Regulatory reforms to increase consumer choice have pressured providers to reorient themselves around customer needs and deliver truly person-centred services. Peter has taken on this challenge and successfully transformed Uniting, implementing a new structure and streamlined operating model.
“Under his leadership, Uniting has come together under one revitalised brand, and led the way with innovative solutions to market problems such as one of Australia’s first social benefit bonds.”
“As we face a future of increasing demand for scarce resources in the social services sector, it is more important than ever that organisations are smart about where they invest and how to create sustainable solutions. Peter’s strategic vision for the next ten years will ensure a holistic, community-based approach that delivers long-term benefits across NSW and the ACT,” Watson said.
Reflecting on his upcoming retirement, Worland stated it has been a great privilege to work with an organisation that is trusted to deliver exceptional services to more than 50,000 people every day across NSW and the ACT.
“I am leaving with confidence that Uniting will continue to build on its Christian mission to serve the vulnerable and disadvantaged in its uniquely compassionate way.”
A top-tier search firm has been appointed by the Uniting Board to identify a successor, and Worland will continue to fulfil his normal duties as Executive Director until that time.