Denise Michelsen, Chief Executive Officer of Crosslinks, confirmed her retirement today after 25 years serving in the position.
Crosslinks Chairperson, Vicki Caudwell said that the organisation has progressively grown its impact under the stewardship of Denise, improving the lives of those with intellectual disabilities across Perth’s eastern suburbs.
“Denise took this service from predominantly centre based supports, to service delivery within the community – This was a huge step forward in our ability to grow our impact”.
Since Denise’s commencement at Crosslinks in 1997, Crosslinks has grown from supporting 30 participants and 6 employees, to supporting 212 participants and over 190 employees.
“This exceptional growth is due in no small part to her unwavering commitment to ensuring the best possible care and support for all of our participants” said Ms Caudwell.
Under Denise’s leadership, Crosslinks played a critical role in the rollout of the NDIS, having registered the organisation as a trial site in 2015. As a result of the NDIS rollout, Crosslinks added Support Coordination, growing it as a dedicated service option for over 100 individuals.
Denise will remain CEO until 10th July, after which she will transition into a consultant role to support the Crosslinks redevelopment project.
In February of 2022, the Crosslinks Board engaged executive recruitment firm Beilby Downing Teal to coordinate the search for Denise’s replacement. After an extensive selection process, the Board is pleased to announce Dawn McAleenan as Crosslinks next CEO.
As former CEO of disability employment and lifestyle services organisation Essential Personnel, Dawn brings extensive leadership experience and a detailed understanding of the sector. Dawn has spent over 18 years managing community services across Western Australia and the UK, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is winner of the 2021 Business News 40 Under 40 Award.
“Dawn has a wealth of experience in managing the successful delivery of essential services to vulnerable people in the community, including people with a disability and young people. We look forward to working with her on the next chapter for Crosslinks”, said Ms Caudwell.
Dawn will commence as CEO from Monday July 11.
