Benalla Health board chair Sarah Chaplin said the board was both proud and deeply appreciative of Ms Kelly’s outstanding contribution over the past four years.
“Jackie has led Benalla Health with compassion, vision and a deep commitment to our community,” Dr Chaplin said.
“Her leadership has strengthened our culture of best care and positioned our organisation for continued success.
“While we are sad to see her go, we are equally delighted that her exceptional leadership has been recognised with this new opportunity.”
Achievements
During her tenure, Jackie Kelly spearheaded a range of initiatives that have left a lasting impact on Benalla Health and the community it serves:
- introduction of the Best Care framework, uniting teams around a shared goal of providing the best care to every person, every time;
- securing grant funding for new staff accommodation and additional aged care beds in the Morrie Evans Wing;
- achieving Rainbow Tick accreditation, reflecting Benalla Health’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and equity; and
- strengthening community engagement, including successful fundraising events such as the Benalla Health Ball and the introduction of the popular coffee cart initiative.
From her first day, Ms Kelly immersed herself in the organisation, connecting with staff, volunteers, the hospital auxiliary and consumers to understand their needs and aspirations.
Her approachable leadership style and genuine care for people have earned her respect and admiration across the Benalla Health community.
Ms Kelly’s commitment to fostering strong relationships with the local Indigenous community, ensuring that culture is respected, voices are heard and people feel genuinely welcomed and celebrated, has been a valued and important part of her leadership.
“Jackie’s legacy will be felt for many years to come,” Dr Chaplin said.
“She has built strong relationships across the organisation and the region and her positive influence will continue to shape how we deliver care.”
To ensure continuity of leadership, an acting chief executive officer will be appointed and announced soon.
The board has started the recruitment process for a new chief executive and is confident of attracting an exceptional leader to build upon the strong foundations now in place.
