Muscular Dystrophy NSW appoints new CEO
MEDIA RELEASE
8 April 2025
Muscular Dystrophy NSW (MDNSW), NSW’s leading not-for-profit organisation supporting people living with neuromuscular conditions and their families, has announced the appointment of Jessica Henry as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Jessica Henry, currently MDNSW’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), will take over from Charlotte Sangster, who will step down after eight years in the role. The change will take effect on 10 April 2025.
Jessica Henry brings a wealth of leadership experience to the role, having joined MDNSW in 2023 as COO. Her background in people leadership, operations, change strategy, business planning and risk management spans both the corporate and for-purpose sectors. Prior to her role at MDNSW, Jessica was Head of Risk and Governance at Children’s Cancer Institute and has held senior positions at Citigroup.
MDNSW President, Robert Fraser, said “Jessica is a strong internal succession candidate who has already demonstrated her commitment to our mission. She’s a familiar face for many in our community, having had a strong presence at camps, retreats and community events. The Board is confident Jess has the vision to lead MDNSW into its next phase.”
Jessica expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead MDNSW saying “It’s a privilege to be appointed as the next CEO of Muscular Dystrophy NSW. Together with our team, we will continue our vital work, motivated by the clarity of our vision: to support all people living with neuromuscular conditions to live the life they choose.”
Commenting on the leadership transition, Robert Fraser said “The Board congratulates Jessica on her appointment and also recognises Charlotte’s leadership over the past eight years in advancing the mission of MDNSW, moving from state government funding to NDIS and advocating for people living with neuromuscular conditions. Charlotte leaves a great legacy within our community, our team and the wider sector and it has been a privilege to work alongside her.”
Reflecting on her time at MDNSW, Charlotte commented: “MDNSW has been more than just a workplace to me – it’s been a community I deeply care about. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and the impact we’ve had on the lives of people living with neuromuscular conditions.”
ABOUT MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY NSW
Muscular Dystrophy NSW is NSW’s leading not-for-profit organisation supporting people living with a neuromuscular condition and their families at every life stage.
For over 65 years, they have connected people across NSW to the support programs they want and the community they need. They offer advocacy, community events including camps and retreats, peer support and connection, NDIS support coordination, links to the latest information, support services and more.
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