RSPCA South Australia welcomes new CEO

December 07, 2016

RSPCA South Australia will continue its commitment to shaping a more compassionate society free of animal cruelty under the leadership of incoming Chief Executive Officer, Paul Stevenson.

With many years of senior executive experience across the private and non-profit sectors, Mr Stevenson has been selected by RSPCA South Australia’s board to head the state’s leading animal welfare organisation.

RSPCA South Australia President Rob DiMonte says Mr Stevenson was selected from a field of high-quality candidates following an extensive selection process.

“Mr Stevenson brings with him a range of relevant skills, and together with the board, will lead our ongoing commitment to saving more lives and seeking innovative ways to care for every animal who needs our help,” he said.

Mr Stevenson has described his appointment as “a great and humbling privilege”.

RSPCA South Australia CEO Paul Stevenson

“An iconic organisation with a long and distinguished history, RSPCA South Australia undertakes a critical role in improving animal welfare in this state,” he said.

“I have watched its significant progress over recent years under the leadership of Tim Vasudeva and I look forward to continuing the many highly effective programs initiated during his time.

“I will be seeking to use my expertise to increase the resources available to the skilled and experienced RSPCA staff, in order that they can be even more effective in their mission to prevent animal cruelty and to care for animals in our community.”

Mr Stevenson’s previous roles include 10 years as Vice President and Executive Director of Mitsubishi Motors Australia, Chief Executive Officer of the Phoenix Society (now merged with Bedford) and Chief Operating Officer of the Australian Centre for Plant Functional Genomics – a biotechnology research organisation.

He has been a passionate advocate of animal welfare throughout his life, starting at an early age as a junior member of RSPCA South Australia. He also has a 21-year-old rescue cat named Paris – who he describes as incredibly spoiled.

Current CEO Tim Vasudeva is relocating to Melbourne to support his elderly parents, both of whom have recently experienced health challenges. The organisation is sad to see Tim go but supportive of his decision, which has been made in the best interests of his family.

Mr Stevenson will commence as Chief Executive Officer on 16 January, 2017.

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