The inaugural CEO of a well-known hospital charity is preparing to step down from the position.
Lisa Rowe will exit the role after 24 years of being at the forefront of bringing community generosity to support the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service.
From the early days of a team of two in the ‘donga’ behind Nambour Hospital, Ms Rowe has led the growth of Wishlist to span 44 rooms of accommodation across three facilities, two Wishlist Coffee Houses and annual distributions of more than $1 million for equipment, service support, education and research.
Ms Rowe said she was now ready to leave her post.
“This is a point that I’ve been working to for a long time and the time is now right for me to step into the next part of my life,” she said.
“There is so much to be proud of, but I’m most proud of this team and of the generous communities of the Sunshine Coast and Gympie.”
As part of Wishlist’s strategic and succession planning, Ms Rowe will hand the reins to general manager Brendan Hogan.
“It’s hard to leave this wonderful organisation but I do so knowing it’s in great shape and in safe hands,” she said.
Wishlist board chairperson John Williams paid tribute to Ms Rowe.
“Words can’t express the regard and love we have for Lisa and all that she has achieved at Wishlist,” he said.
“Whilst it’s a big decision for Lisa, we knew this day would come and we’re fully supportive of her.”
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Ms Rowe said she was excited by new travel adventures, including looking at opportunities to make an ongoing contribution to Wishlist, albeit from a different base.
A further change will be made to the Wishlist team next year, after fundraising and partnership manager Lisa Wilson leaves in December to focus her efforts on her family business, ACQ Projects.
Over her 17 years with Wishlist, Ms Wilson has made significant contributions to partnerships, fundraising and events.
“I’ve loved every minute of working with Wishlist and all our wonderful supporters, but it’s now time for me to prioritise my young family and our business,” she said.
