Management Team

CEO: Peter KAYE AM ESM

JP, BEc, Grad Dip Ad Ed, FAICD. FRSA,CMAHRI

Peter has over 40 years of Award volunteering, management and governance. He was previously the Managing Director of Consultgroup, providing governance and HR management services through Asia, Pacific, Middle East and Australia. His Award roles have included a Board appointed director (1996-2016), a Gold Award Holder and the Regional Advisor (Hon.) for the Asia Pacific Region. He is also a recipient of the Award’s Gold Distinguished Service Medal. He is Chair or director of a number of private company Boards, not-for-profit organisation Boards, and former Chair of AwardWare.

Executive Manager, Operations: Kathleen HEWITT

Kathleen joined the National Award Office in February 2019. Kathleen has previously held roles with the NSW Division and the International Award Foundation supporting the development, profile and reach of the Award program across the Asia Pacific region. Kathleen has over 15 years’ experience working across Federal and State government programs, including the ANZAC Centenary Program, NGO transformation projects, business development and fundraising acquisition, project management, change management and communications.

Senior Manager, Finance and Administration, National Disadvantaged Youth Project Manager: Tania ETUALE

Tania Etuale is our Manager of Finance and Administration, having joined the National Award team in October 2005. Tania is responsible for finance, human resources, administration and compliance. She also provides secretariat support to the National Board and The Friends Board, which actively contributes to managing the Award’s planning processes.

Tania previously worked in Government for 10 years, followed by another 10 years in leading national and multinational companies in finance and management. During this time, she was seconded to project teams to implement new financial systems. Throughout her career, Tania has been involved with projects that support and celebrate cultural diversity in the Pacific Island community. She has also volunteered in the disability sector as well as with Youth of the Streets and Umoona Aged Care Aboriginal Corporation.

Fundraising & Ambassador Manager: Jo BUSH

Jo joined the National Office in 2014 and was actively involved in the planning and execution of a number of events during Royal Tours in 2014, 2018, 2019 and the 60th Anniversary Royal Tour. Previous to working with the Award, Jo worked in Human Resources, specialising in the Hospitality industry for 5 Star hotels. Jo has an interest in the fundraising, having sponsored several children in developing countries, and raising funds for charities by participating in sporting events. Jo has two children and is actively involved in school fundraising and holds her Bronze Medallion where she volunteers as a surf lifesaver on weekends.

National Strategic Projects Manager: Kelly WOOD

Kelly joined the National Office in March 2010 to assist with the rollout of the Australian Online Record Book. Her background is in operational projects in both not-for-profit and commercial organisations, publicity and events management. Kelly is currently responsible for the implementation of projects relating to employability and capacity building, a collaboration with the 2018 Commonwealth Games, the development of the Institute of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and building both delivery and activity partnerships.

Business Systems and Digital Manager: Andrew PLEFFER

Since joining the National Award team in September 2019, Andrew has led the implementation of our CRM database and focused on digitising processes. He also provides a wealth of experience in questionnaire design, data analysis and reporting, garnered from his extensive background working in research, education and the not-for-profit sector. Andrew is a committed volunteer for children’s sport and regularly participates in fundraising activities.