Sean Barrett, the CEO of Planet Ark, has resigned.
Planet Ark CEO, Sean Barrett
"Leaving Planet Ark is a bitter-sweet decision for me," said Sean Barrett. "I have been approached to start a philanthropic foundation here in Australia. Substantial funding has been committed but details are confidential for the moment. Before joining Planet Ark I was working in London with international NGOs. There I came in contact with many foundations. I became interested in the transformative potential of foundations, and to have this opportunity to build a foundation from scratch was too tempting to refuse.
I leave Planet Ark with great reluctance. A very good team is doing impactful work, and there are exciting plans in train for new programs," said Sean Barrett.
Gillian Turner, Chair of Planet Ark Environmental Foundation said: "While disappointed to lose Sean I recognise that this is a very exciting opportunity for him.
The Board has a transition plan in place. We are engaged in a search for a new CEO. We do not need to rush this. One of Sean's achievements as CEO is to have put in place a very good leadership team with Brad Gray heading up campaigns, Paul Klymenko overseeing our partner programs, and Wayne Foster focussing on finance and administration. We will continue to function and deliver our campaigns and programs seamlessly.
Sean's term has seen a transformation in the governance of the organisation and a strategic review which has led to a new approach to our campaigning and program work. We have strong foundations on which to build. Research continues to find that the name of Planet Ark is well regarded in the community and the Board believes we have exciting opportunities ahead."
- Job Advertisement - Planet Ark CEO (29kb pdf file)
The Board now seeks an experienced, dynamic leader to build on the organisation's existing brand and operational capabilities by expanding Planet Ark's program of activities and funding.
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