Australian Scholarships Foundation is delighted to announce that Louisa Graham will be joining the organisation in May as Chief Executive Officer following an executive search process.

Louisa Graham has 20 years of experience in not-for-profit management and governance, including as a Chief Executive Officer, Non-Executive Director and volunteer.

Graham stepped down from The Walkley Foundation for Journalism after 10 years’ total service, first as the General Manager and then as the CEO. In her time there, she built a strong team, stabilised funding and reinvigorated the awards and professional development program, leaving the Foundation stronger than it has ever been.

Graham said, “I’m excited to be joining the Australian Scholarships Foundation. It will be a privilege to work with an experienced board, a dedicated staff, and a diverse range of stakeholders and funders who share a commitment to strengthen and increase the capacity and effectiveness of Australian charities and the not-for-profit sector.”

“The Australian Scholarships Foundation is doing vital work and the impressive delivery of scholarships, mentoring and training for the sector has meant a large range of not-for-profit organisations have been able to deliver on their mission to meet fundamental societal needs. I am committed to continuing and building upon this important work.”

The Chair of Australian Scholarships Limited, Stephen Garton, said, “We are thrilled to be engaging someone with Louisa’s skill, experience, and passion. Louisa brings extensive experience in leadership, strategic management, and business development to shepherd the Australian Scholarships Foundation through this next stage of growth.”

Graham replaces Samantha Sayers, who led the foundation for four-and-a-half years. Sam successfully completed a significant program of change and consolidation, which has placed the foundation in an impressive position. Sam has now joined Origin Energy as Head of the Origin Energy Foundation.

Australian Scholarships Foundation is a charity focused on delivering opportunities for training and professional development to the nation’s charities and not-for-profits