A new era for Meli as inaugural CEO prepares to retire

GEELONG’S largest community service and kindergarten program provider Meli is on the hunt for a new chief executive officer, as inaugural chief Grant Boyd prepares to retire at the end of June.

Mr Boyd has led the not-for-profit organisation since its formation in April 2023, the product of a merger between Barwon Child, Youth & Family and Bethany Community Support, where Boyd also served as CEO for about 14 years.

Meli now employs approximately 900 staff across the Barwon and western areas of Victoria, and provides wide-ranging support services to the community, including out-of-home care, counselling, problem gambling, housing and family violence support.

Mr Boyd said serving as Meli’s first chief executive officer had been an incredibly rewarding and humbling experience, and expressed his gratitude to the organisation’s board, staff and supporters.

“It was a privilege, as inaugural CEO, to lead Meli through its formation and create a solid foundation for its future success.

“I am confident the organisation is very well placed to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead as a recognised leader in its field.

“I will watch with interest the next chapter of Meli’s development and stay engaged with the sector.”

Now 64, Boyd’s retirement follows a 45-year career working across the community and education sectors, as well as postings with the state government and as a director on several boards.

He took on his first leadership role at the age of 28, heading Geelong’s first autism service, which later merged with two other support organisations to form Gateways Support Services, where Boyd was also CEO.

Meli chair Chris Bowly thanked Boyd for his “dedicated leadership, expertise and commitment”, and said it had been both a pleasure and “an education” to work alongside him.

“Grant is an inspirational and inclusive leader with a clear vision for excellence and focus on client outcomes.

“The vision for the creation of Meli was to build on the strengths of the founding organisations to provide exceptional client services, build a great place to work and become a strong and respected voice on behalf of community.

“Grant has provided the drive and commitment to bring that vision to life.

“We wish him well for the next stage of life.”