Affinity Education Group CEO Tim Hickey has announced two senior executive appointments that will strengthen the company's operational and compliance teams.
Sally Turpin has been appointed as State Manager Victoria, following the rapid expansion of the centre portfolio over the past twelve months.
Previous State Manager Kellie Bray has taken on the newly created Senior Operations Manager Victoria role in the same team, building on over eight years in senior leadership roles with Affinity Education Group. Joined by newly appointed Operations Manager Debra Smith who brings more than a decade of experience in the early education sector, the Victorian Operations team will oversee 48 centres across Victoria, with further new centres planned to open later in the year.
Sally has extensive experience in senior management and multi-site commercial operations and has previously worked for Halaxy Health, Salon Pay and Adidas Retail.
A values-led leader who loves being completely connected with her team, Sally is excited about the opportunities the Victorian-based role offers.
“The opportunity to be part of a company delivering excellence in early education is what thrilled me about this new opportunity with Affinity Education Group,” Sally said.
“I’m joining an amazing team – many of whom have already achieved great things in their careers supported by Affinity – and I look forward to realising the potential of our Victorian team together.”
Also new to Affinity and based in Affinity’s Centre Support Office in Brisbane, Matthew Little has taken on the newly created role of Chief Safety, Compliance and Quality Officer.
Matthew previously held the role of Chief Safety Officer at Goodstart, having held previous safety leadership and policy development roles in tourism, construction and utilities sectors.
A strong advocate for all elements of child and employee safety, Matthew is highly experienced in all aspects of risk management, compliance and safety, and is especially passionate about culture change and values-based leadership.
“It's been refreshing to join a fast-paced and open-minded group like Affinity, and I look forward to driving our teams’ strong focus on quality, compliance and safety,” Matthew said.
CEO Tim Hickey congratulated the newly appointed team members.
“It’s obvious both Sally and Matt align with our Affinity values and take a people-led approach to leadership – that's the Affinity Way. We’re very glad they have made the decision to join us and I’m looking forward to seeing their achievements for Affinity in 2024 and beyond,” he said.