Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation has appointed Cassandra Lewis as the organisation's new Group Chief Executive Officer.
Following careful consideration and after a comprehensive national recruitment process, the Board determined Ms Lewis as the right leader to guide DJAARA and the broader Dja Dja Wurrung Group through its next chapter.
Ms Lewis' appointment comes after she helped guide the organisation through a period of transition while maintaining a strong focus on culture, governance, community outcomes and long-term sustainability.
Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DJARRA) said Ms Lewis is known for her collaborative leadership style, commitment to community-led outcomes and ability to balance cultural, community and organisational priorities in support of Dja Dja Wurrung aspirations.
DJARRA chair Rebecca Phillips said the Board was confident in Ms Lewis' ability to lead the organisation into the future.
"Cassandra distinguished herself through her values-driven leadership, strong understanding of DJAARA and commitment to Dja Dja Wurrung People," Ms Phillips said.
"With six years as General Manager and the past twelve months as Interim Chief Executive Officer, she has developed a clear understanding of our Members, our priorities and the work needed to strengthen the organisation for the future."
DJARRA said during her tenure, Ms Lewis has contributed to organisational development, sound governance practices, strategic partnerships and work to build the long-term resilience of the Dja Dja Wurrung Group.
They said she has worked closely with Dja Dja Wurrung People, government, industry and community stakeholders to support Dja Dja Wurrung aspirations and the priorities set out in Dhelkunya Dja - Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Country Plan.
Ms Phillips said throughout the recruitment process, Ms Lewis demonstrated a clear focus on responsible governance, cultural integrity and the future aspirations of Dja Dja Wurrung People.
"The Board noted her ability to lead through change, build partnerships, respond to community priorities and strengthen organisational resilience," she said.
"We are confident Cassandra will build on the foundations already in place and support the Dja Dja Wurrung Group's continued role as a leading Traditional Owner organisation, regional employer, and land manager."
In accepting the appointment, Ms Lewis said it is a privilege to serve Dja Dja Wurrung People and to lead an organisation that plays such an important role in protecting Country, strengthening culture and creating opportunities for our community.
"I'm committed to empowering current and future generations of Dja Dja Wurrung People, through practical means and through strengthening culture and improving our Country's health," Ms Lewis said.
"In delivering for Dja Dja Wurrung People, DJAARA will also deliver benefits to the region.
"I am excited about the work ahead. Together with our Members, Board, Elders, staff and partners, we will continue advancing self-determination, growing our economy and ensuring our cultural responsibilities to Country remain at the centre of everything we do.
"There is much work still to do, and I am confident that by working together we can continue building a strong future for Dja Dja Wurrung People."
DJARRA said Ms Lewis' appointment marks an important step in the organisations ongoing journey to strengthen culture, care for Country, support community aspirations and build a sustainable future for Dja Dja Wurrung People.
