New CEO to take reins at Geelong Sustainability

GEELONG Sustainability will enter 2025 with a new leader at its helm, with chief executive officer Dan Cowdell set to step down from the top job at the end of the year.

Mr Cowdell first began working with the not-for-profit organisation as a volunteer in 2013, later joining its committee and serving a term as its president before becoming Geelong Sustainability’s inaugural CEO.

“It was a really hard decision, to be honest, because I love the organisation and the work that we do,” he said.

“In 2013, I could see what the group could really become, and I feel like I’ve helped push it along and really expanded what the group’s doing, the impact we’ve been able to have, and it’s a good time to pass that baton onto…someone new with new skills and new abilities to take it to the next level.”

He pointed to Geelong Sustainability’s Electric Homes Program, which helps residents make the switch from gas to energy-efficient electric appliances, and its Community Energy Revolving Fund, a “legacy project” that gives loans to non-profits to assist them to complete energy upgrades, as key highlights.

Mr Cowdell will be replaced by Jane Spence, who brings almost 20 years of experience in climate action and environmental sustainability leadership to the position.

Ms Spence’s career spans all levels of government, including almost 10 years in local government, the last two of which were spent serving as the Surf Coast Shire’s environment and sustainability manager.

“I’m just absolutely wrapped that we’ve got Jane as the new CEO,” Mr Cowdell said.

“Having been involved for such a long time, you want to make sure the organisation’s in really good hands and I’m absolutely confident that it is.”

Ms Spence said she was “wildly excited” to take on the role, and praised Geelong Sustainability’s ongoing impact in the communities it serves.

“I feel my skills and experience can help support the great work they’re doing in the region.

“I think it’s a really special region and I’m really committed to climate action and working with community and being part of this community movement.

“I’m going to start by listening, observing, being curious, trying to just understand the team, the supporters, the members.”

Committee chair David Spear said Ms Spence impressed the board throughout the recruitment process with her strategic thinking, personable management style, genuine care for people and commitment to working closely with the community.

Ms Spence officially began the role yesterday (Monday, December 9) and will work alongside Mr Cowdell during a handover period until his departure at the end of the December.

Following this Mr Cowdell will take a six-month break while he considered his next venture.