Aust Internship Social Enterprise appoints new CEO

CareerSeekers New Australian Internship Program announced the appointment of Peter Baynard-Smith as new Chief Executive Officer. Peter will commence in the role at the start of October 2019.

Peter is joining non-profit social enterprise, CareerSeekers, with 25 years of experience in the international development sector. With a background in engineering, Peter has dedicated his life to supporting communities around the world and has worked for some of the most recognised global humanitarian organisations including World Vision and TEAR Fund.

Peter is an experienced CEO, having led Engineers Without Borders Australia, and most recently a technology start-up. He has also served on the board of Habitat for Humanity Australia.

Acting Chair of CareerSeekers, Penny Graham said, “After a comprehensive international search process, we have no doubt found the right person to lead CareerSeekers into the next era.”

“Peter is joining CareerSeekers deeply committed to seeing humanitarian arrivals thrive in Australia. His eclectic professional experience across international development, engineering and, most recently, technology makes him uniquely placed to lead the organisation into its next phase of growth,” Penny said.

Joining CareerSeekers Peter says, “I am thrilled to be taking on the role of CEO for this very special and unique social enterprise, CareerSeekers. After working for many years in humanitarian and developing country contexts around the world I have some understanding of the situations from which refugees and asylum seekers come to Australia, and the capacities that they bring with them to their new home.”

Working to see people thrive in a new country resonates deeply with him, Peter says adding that he feels privileged to build on the remarkable foundations laid by Michael Combs over the past 4 years.

Founding CEO of CareerSeekers, Michael Combs has created a sustainable program for Peter to take the reins of. His impact since 2015 has seen the introduction of Article 23 partnerships with 19 organisations that have created long-term opportunities for participants that expects to generate over 700 internships over the next three years.

Michael Combs said, “It has been my privilege as founding CEO of CareerSeekers watching the organisation thrive. The impact of CareerSeekers is extraordinary and made possible by the fantastic hardworking team who continue to advocate every day for the new Australians in our program.“

“I know I’m leaving the organisation in safe hands with Peter as the new leader, who will undoubtedly continue growing the organisation by creating faster re-settlement for Australia’s humanitarian arrivals through professional careers,” Michael said.

Pearl Dy

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Pearl Dy is a community manager and journalist. She is passionate about business and development particularly involving not-for-profits, charity and social entrepreneurship.

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