Alison Smith Joins Gowrie Victoria as Executive Manager, Early Learning
Alison has been warmly welcomed to Gowrie Victoria. She began her tenure in late August 2025 as Executive Manager, Early Learning, where she will drive their strategic vision for high‑quality early‑learning services and support sector leadership and positive learning outcomes for children.
Why Alison is the Right Fit
- 25 + years of sector experience at the intersection of health, education, and disability, with a strong focus on child‑ and family‑centred services.
- Proven expertise in strategic leadership, governance, program evaluation, system psychodynamics to champion innovation and service excellence.
- Skilled in translating contemporary research into practice and leading organisational transformation to ensure programs align with the latest best practices.
- Track record of delivering complex system reforms and cultivating genuine partnerships between government, universities, and community organisations.
Reporting directly to the CEO and joining the executive team, Alison will steer the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of their early‑learning portfolio, ensuring it remains evidence‑informed, outcome‑driven, and collaboratively innovative.
Alison’s Perspective
“This role offers an exciting opportunity to bring together the varied experiences of my career into executive leadership at Gowrie. It aligns perfectly with my deep‑rooted passion for early childhood and for leading transformative change. Working at Gowrie Victoria, renowned for leading‑edge, high‑quality education and care, is a privilege I truly cherish.
My experience of Future Leadership was very positive. Kate Wheeler provided a clear and supportive process, and it was a pleasure to work with her.”
