New Helping Hand CEO looks to build on solid foundations

The appointment will be effective January 7, 2019 following the retirement of current CEO, Ian Hardy.

Helping Hand Chairperson Rosalie Pace says Mr Stewart is a strong leader who will bring three decades of business, customer service and governance experience to the role.

“The aged care sector is going through immense and rapid change. Mr Stewart’s hands-on expertise in financial services, health and aged care, technology and professional services places him in good stead to lead Helping Hand into the future,” she says.

“Mr Stewart can translate vision and strategy into sustainable, quality business outcomes”.

Former Managing Director at Hood Sweeney, Mr Stewart holds an Honours Degree in Science, an MBA, and is a graduate fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He has also held non-executive director and committee roles with Shelter SA, Windmill Theatre Co and the Churchill Trust.

Mr Stewart says he is proud to be associated with Helping Hand.

“Helping Hand is a recognised leader in the aged care sector and as a former Board member, I was proud to say to people that I was involved with the organisation. I have always been impressed with the care that is provided by Helping Hand and the passion and commitment of the team,” he says.

“With the recently announced Royal Commission, introduction of the single aged care quality standards, and the increasing options for how people wish to obtain their care, it is an incredibly exciting time for the industry and I am looking forward to being a part of it.

“There is immense opportunity to continue to work with the board and team at Helping Hand to build upon the organisation’s strong foundations and expand into new services and business models.”

Current Helping Hand CEO Ian Hardy says he is thrilled with Mr Stewart’s appointment.

“During his time on the Board, Mr Stewart showed his passion and commitment to both Helping Hand and the citizens that we serve. There is a business imperative, for all aged care providers, to reform and create new ways of delivering services. I leave with the confidence that Mr Stewart has the right leadership qualities and commitment to see Helping Hand thrive into the future.”

Ian Hardy, who will retire as CEO at the end of the year, has been appointed the Chair of the Industry Reference Committee which will be reviewing skills and qualifications for the future aged care workforce.