Siân originally trained as a pharmacist in the UK and has enjoyed a career working internationally in the UK, Europe, US and Australia. This has involved leading teams across countries and cultures to ensure positive, productive and supportive work environments. Siân is highly motivated to ensure everyone in the community has opportunity to participate fully and is proud to be part of The Bridge Inc.
David is Fellow of the CPA and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, he is currently the Group CFO at Elenium Automation Pty Ltd , a leading technology Company that manufactures electronic equipment for the Aviation and Medical sectors. Prior to this David had 27 years in Senior roles in the manufacturing sector both in Finance and Operational Management. David also has held Non Executive Director Roles with Dairy Australia and Snapsil Corporation and has a strong understanding of the governance requirements in both listed and unlisted Companies.
Tanya is an experienced non-executive director and governance professional with a portfolio of board roles across aged care, disability services, and community health. She brings to The Bridge a strong commitment to building connected, inclusive communities where people of all abilities can participate fully and achieve their potential.
With over 20 years’ executive experience in healthcare and neuroscience technology, Tanya brings to the boardroom deep expertise in strategy, risk oversight, stakeholder engagement, and organisational transformation. Her background spans both commercial and not-for-profit environments, giving her a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing purpose-driven organisations.
Outside her board roles, Tanya is CEO of Public Works Collaborative, a mission-driven research and design organisation that partners with for-profits, non-profits, and government agencies to co-create solutions that advance public health and strengthen communities. She is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Sanjay is a seasoned non-executive director specialising in governance of small to large not-for-profits companies, including aged-care and other health care boards.
He is a Physicist and Graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). He also is a Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA) and Fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia (FGIA).
Sanjay has chaired the Finance, Audit and Risk Management and Investment Committees and has been the Victorian State Councilor at Governance Institute of Australia, where he chaired its ‘think tank’ professional development Committee on contemporary governance and risk management practices.
Sally Bennett is an experienced Governance and Risk professional who is currently the Director of Risk Management & Enablement for the Arts Centre Melbourne.
Sally has had significant experience in large Aged Care and Disability organisations, and was previously the Chair of IDV Inc which has now merged with The Bridge. Sally specialises in transformational change, embedding risk and governance cultures in organisations. Sally has worked across a wide range of organisations including several utilities, local government, health, construction and manufacturing, ranging from medium sector to large multi-nationals. BSC, Grad Dip OHS, Grad Dip Chem Eng, MBA, MAICD.
Bernadette is passionate about helping people connect with their communities through engagement in community groups, activities, training, and employment opportunities. Currently, Bernadette serves as the Group General Manager, Legal & Governance at a leading aeromedical care company. Bernadette is a Fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia, and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Bernadette has also held Non-Executive Director roles with IDV Inc and the Association of Corporate Counsel.
Richard Dawe is the Chief Executive Officer of The Bridge Inc, appointed following a successful period as Acting CEO. He brings a compassionate, values-driven approach to leadership, with a strong focus on empowering people with disabilities and supporting inclusive communities.
During his time as Acting CEO, Richard engaged closely with teams, participants, and families, building a deep understanding of the organisation and its impact. His leadership is grounded in a person-centred approach, ensuring decisions reflect the needs and aspirations of those The Bridge Inc supports.
Richard is committed to strengthening the organisation’s foundations while fostering a culture that prioritises both participants and staff. Guided by the values of Integrity, Connectedness, Individuality, and Courage, he is focused on sustainable growth, strong partnerships, and delivering high-quality, responsive services.
David has worked in the employment services sector for over 20 years, specialising in contract compliance, governance, quality, and risk management. He has experience working in small and large not-for-profit organisations leading their contract compliance teams as well as working for the Australian Federal Government – Department of Employment. David completed a Bachelor of Business Degree at Victoria University in 2004 and a Certificate IV in Employment Services. He is passionate about the employment services industry and supporting The Bridge Employment in assisting participants who need the most help to achieve their own independence in life through employment.
Nicole has extensive experience working within the disability sector spanning over 20 years. Nicole initially completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Intellectual Disability) and then a Graduate Diploma in Disability (Leadership). She also holds her Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Nicole’s experience includes group based supports as well as individualised services and brokerage supports. Having worked in direct support before moving into a range of leadership and management roles, she is committed to the delivery of quality services and outcomes to enhance the lives of people with a disability.
Melinda has extensive experience working in Human Resources for the past 15 years with a focus on leading teams and developing and implementing HR strategy. Melinda has a Bachelor of Business in Human Resources, Certificate IV in training and Assessment as well as a qualification in Gender Equality.
Melinda has worked across a variety of industries and sectors including Corporate, Education, Health and Local Government. Melinda is an authentic leader with a passion for diversity and inclusion as well as having significant experience in workplace relations, change management, coaching and learning and development.
Melinda is excited to have joined the Not-For-Profit sector utilising her skills and experience to lead HR initiatives and strategies, focusing on developing and building leadership capability whilst continuing to grow and inspire a culture of inclusivity and connection at The Bridge.
