On this page:
Executive Leadership Team
Leading our organisation forward.
Our Executive Leadership Team is responsible for implementing the strategy set by the Board. The Team ensures that performance goals are met and that our work and programs are undertaken efficiently, effectively and sustainably.
Chief Executive Officer
Nicky Long
Nicky Long joined Guide Dogs Victoria as CEO in April 2023 with an impressive track record in the disability and non-profit sectors. She brings experience and drive to lead Guide Dogs Victoria into the future, combined with a deep passion and commitment to empower people living with a disability.
Prior to commencing with Guide Dogs Victoria, Nicky was CEO of Expression Australia, and held roles in the healthcare, pharmaceutical and not for profit sectors – including Inaugural CEO of Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision and board positions with The Royal Women’s Hospital Foundation, The Snowdome Foundation, St Kilda Football Club Foundation and Soap Aid.
Nicky is a current Board Member of and Independent Non-Executive Director of the Priceline Sisterhood Foundation and the Norman Beischer Research Foundation.
Nicky is a member of ‘Mentor Walks Australia’, and a member of the mentor program at St Kilda Football Club for AFLW players. She was a finalist in the 2020 Telstra Business Women’s Awards for Victoria – for purpose and social enterprise.
Nicky has a degree in Nursing, a Graduate Diploma in Marketing and a Masters of Business in Innovation and Leadership.
Chief Financial Officer
Penny Callaghan
General Manager Dog and Vision Services
Dr. Russell Harrison
“Working with Guide Dogs is a unique opportunity to combine my passion for animal health and welfare and improving the lives of people through social connection, health and learning.
I am honoured to work with an amazing team that supports people to live life without limits.”
Russell is an experienced Community Service professional with a background in veterinary medicine, disability services, and health and aged care.
Project Manager - Campus Redevelopment
Catherine Curry-Hyde
Catherine has been employed at Guide Dogs Victoria as the Campus Redevelopment Project Manager since March 2019 and is responsible for delivering the AU$30M redevelopment of the 10 acre site on the outskirts of Melbourne, Australia.
Catherine has worked in the Property Development / Project Management / Architectural Management industry for nearly 40 years spanning South Africa, the USA and Australia. She came to Australia in 1996 and worked for Architect/Developer, Nonda Katsalidis for 15 years on major iconic residential projects as a Development Manager, as well as Financial Controller and COO for the Katsalidis Group of companies for the duration of her term.
Other roles, whilst working for the Katsalidis Group included managing the award-winning fine dining restaurant, Ondine for 2 years.
From 2009 Catherine worked as a consultant. Client and project roles include asset management, property development, conveyancing, financial controller and business management.
Catherine is a founding member of the International Women’s Forum, Australia Chapter and was the founding Treasurer and Director for 5 years from 2014 to 2019.
Diploma of Workplace & Business Coaching – 2014.
General Manager Fundraising & Philanthropy
Evan Gordon
Evan embarked on his journey with Guide Dogs in 2016, bringing a wealth of expertise in fundraising and marketing gathered from his tenure in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. With senior positions across the airline, travel & tourism, health, and disability sectors under his belt, Evan’s impact resonates internationally.
Holding a Master of Commerce in Marketing Management from the University of Pretoria, Evan is also a Member of the Fundraising Institute of Australia. His dedication to advancing Guide Dogs’ mission knows no bounds as he continues to drive transformative initiatives and foster lasting partnerships.”
Ready to continue?
Seems like you have filled this form earlier. Let’s pick up where you left off.
Take the Puppy Pledge today!
