Meli welcomes new CEO as inaugural leader retires

COMMUNITY service provider Meli has appointed a new chief executive officer, as its inaugural CEO prepares to retire.

Robyn Hayles, a leader with more than two decades of executive and CEO experience in the health and community services sector, will step into the top job on July 7.

“Meli plays a vital role in supporting individuals, families and communities across our region,” Ms Hayles said.

“I look forward to working with the team to continue to build on this legacy and lead Meli into its next chapter.”

Ms Hayles comes to the not-for-organisation from Safer Care Victoria, where she has served since October in a senior role, and has previously served as CEO at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service and chief operating officer at Barwon Health.

Meli chair Chris Bowly said the board was confident Ms Hayles would guide the organisation with vision, compassion and strategic insight.

“Robyn’s leadership experience, values-driven approach and deep understanding of community needs make her an outstanding choice to lead Meli,” he said.

Meli’s inaugural CEO Grant Boyd announced his retirement in January.

He has led the 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.

“We thank Grant for his outstanding leadership and contribution to Meli,” Mr Bowly said.