Sue McKechnie said it was her family role models who actively sought out leadership roles in their local communities that led her to a career at South Australian Not for Profit operator Resthaven.
“My background in health, paired with my interest in helping people be the best they can be, set me on the path to a leadership role with Resthaven,” said Sue, who has retired .
“I started at Resthaven in 2004 with an interest in people and community. I wanted to take the opportunity to assist Resthaven to develop its community services and further realise its commitment to quality in service.”
“Since then, Resthaven Community Services has grown from a small metropolitan-based operation to be the largest home care service provider for older people in South Australia, delivering a broad range of services across the entire continuum, employing more than 1,000 staff.”
Sue said she had been encouraged by the lives of Nelson Mandela, Winston Churchill, and Florence Nightingale as she pursued her leadership skills.
“Encouraged by their stories, I realised that by taking up policy roles and championing new initiatives, I could influence better outcomes for more people.,” she said.
She recognises that being a woman in a leadership role is a vital role model.
“Every female leader brings their own style, models and pathways to teach younger women. The ability to support others has made my role hugely rewarding,” Sue added.
“Resthaven’s purpose, and values of ‘Trust Dignity Choice,’ closely align with my personal philosophy.”