Launceston City Mission Announces Retirement of CEO Stephen Brown

The CEO of Launceston City Mission Mr Stephen Brown has announced he is stepping down as CEO at the end of September 2024.

Mr Brown has led City Mission for the past 12 years as CEO and has been instrumental in growing client services across the greater North.

In his announcement to the staff, Mr Brown expressed gratitude to the dedicated team of leaders, staff, and volunteers at City Mission, attributing their collective efforts to the organisation's achievements.

Over the past twelve years Mr Brown notes the following highlights:

· Celebrating the stories of people cared for and supported by our Client and Social Enterprise Services, showing God’s love in action.

· Leading and overseeing the development of human resources for paid and unpaid workers to achieve the supportive culture, as endorsed by them, we have today.

· Securing ongoing funding for Alcohol and Other Drug Rehabilitation services and the redevelopment of Serenity House.

· Being able to thank so many of our funders, donors and suppliers for their support of the Mission and people in our communities.

· Expanding our services to youth and children and relocating them to the renovated Ark Community Centre.

Reflecting on his time at the organisation, Mr Brown shared, "It’s been a wonderful privilege leading City Mission over the past twelve years. It’s a role where we've been able to significantly help people overcome every imaginable challenge, hardship, and problem as we’ve sought to transform their lives for the better. Life can be very tough and being able to support people at their time of greatest need is truly the most rewarding work there is."

Mr Brown said “whilst I’ve enjoyed every moment of this role, I feel now is the right time to transition, both for myself and from the Mission’s perspective.”

City Mission Chair, Tim Holder, commended Mr Brown for his exceptional service and dedication to both City Mission and the broader Northern Communities. Mr Holder noted, "Stephen has done a remarkable job building and strengthening the organisation. Today, City Mission is seven times larger, employing over 210 people, and supported by more than 450 volunteers."

He praised Mr Brown's compassionate and visionary leadership style, faithfulness and astute business acumen, highlighting his invaluable contributions to the organisation's growth and impact.

As Launceston City Mission embarks on the search for a new CEO, Mr Holder emphasised the organisation's commitment to continuity, compassion and leadership excellence. A national search led by a local recruitment agency will commence shortly, with the position set to be advertised in the coming weeks. The board is committed to finding a successor who embodies the values and spirit of service that define Launceston City Mission's mission and vision.