The Australian Centre for Social Innovation (TACSI) is excited to announce that Louise Sylvan AM FAICD has been appointed as TACSI’s new Chair! After six years on the TACSI Board, Louise steps into the role following David Knox, who is concluding a decade of dedicated leadership.
Reflecting on his tenure, David Knox shared:
“TACSI is an organisation like no other. Serving as Chair has been an honour, broadening my perspective on the innovative approaches needed to tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century. It has been a privilege to work closely with Louise and the Board, as well as the former and current CEOs. Collaborating with the TACSI team has been a career highlight, and I will remain a strong supporter of their mission and work.”
Louise brings a wealth of experience in leadership and governance across a diverse range of for-purpose organisations, initiatives, and collaborations including as a Commissioner at the Productivity Commission, Deputy Chair of ACCC and CEO of CHOICE.
Beyond TACSI, Louise also chairs the Reliable Affordable Clean Energy Cooperative Research Centre and the NSW Energy Ombudsman, and serves as an Adjunct Professor at the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney.
Sharing her vision for TACSI, Louise said: “Social innovation and social R&D are essential yet often overlooked national capabilities. I am honoured to step into the role of Chair and deeply grateful to David for his leadership and vision. With many of us forging new ways of working together, we will shape meaningful and lasting change in Australia."
This is a pivotal moment in the development of TACSI's work and its engagement with partners and stakeholders. I am committed to strengthening its foundations and ensuring that TACSI’s dynamic leadership and staff continue to bring best practices in social innovation to the forefront of its work and teaching. I look forward to working alongside the Board, our dedicated team, and our valued partners and stakeholders. It is particularly a privilege to work in allyship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
With many of us forging new ways of working together, we will shape meaningful and lasting change in Australia."
We thank David for his leadership and welcome Louise into her new role as we continue to drive bold social innovation for a better future.