Comm Unity Plus Services Ltd (commUnity+) has appointed Susanne Legena, current Acting CEO at Plan International Australia, as its new Board Chair. Her appointment was announced at the commUnity+ AGM in October 2017. Susanne replaces James McCarthy, who was Chair, overall, for 9 years.

The wealth of experience that Susanne brings to this role will help guide commUnity+ through a period of growth and any future challenges.  She has extensive senior management experience across a wide range of public policy, public sector management, and communications areas. Susanne has had a career dedicated to working on social justice issues in community organisations and government and is a strong advocate for foreign aid and community development, gender equality and youth participation.

Susanne was elected to the commUnity+ board in 2016. She has held a variety of senior executive positions at Plan International in communications and engagement and has previously served as Chief of Staff to a Victorian Government Minister.

Susanne has a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Flinders University and a Master of Arts (Professional Communication) from Deakin University.

commUnity+ thanks James McCarthy for his many years of leadership that has seen the organisation consolidate, grow and innovate across all programs. James will continue to serve on the Board.