Board Chair (2023 – present)

Director (2022 – present)

Craig joined the VPC Board in October 2022 and became Board Char in July 2023. Prior to becoming Board Chair, Craig was the Chair of the Governance, People & Culture Committee. His previous Board roles include the Board Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation, being a director from 2014 to 2023.

Craig is the CEO of LeavePlus, the portable long service leave Scheme for the construction industry in Victoria. He has over 30 years in finance related roles, across a variety of industries including investment banking, state government, and member-based organisations.

Before joining LeavePlus in September 2021, Craig was the CEO at Foresters Financial, one of Australia’s largest member-owned friendly societies that offers a range of investment and insurance products. Prior to this, he was the CFO for the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He is a Fellow of CPA Australia, a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree.

David is a corporate public affairs professional with almost 25 years experience in the public, corporate and not for profit sectors. A long term resident of the City of Port Phillip, David is passionate about social justice and contributing to the LGBTIQA+ community as a Director of the VPC. He’s combined his professional roles with volunteering in the field and in governance across a range of LGBTIQA+ and mainstream organisations.

Lachlan is the Treasurer of the Victorian Pride Centre. He currently is a Senior Manager at EY working in transformation and enablement of strategic initiatives in Assurance. He also has over 10 years’ experience at EY in their audit team specialising in the financial services sector. He is a qualified Chartered Accountant and has a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) from the University of Melbourne. He has served on the VPC Audit, Finance & Risk Committee since June 2024.

“My passion lies in creating pathways that connect the community to each other and to the Victorian Pride Centre. A centre that thrives with energy and inclusivity. A centre where every member of our community feels a sense of belonging and pride.”

Alan is a not-for-profit corporate governance specialist, working with communities to build power to make decisions that matter. He currently serves on the board of GetUp!, an independent progressive political movement, and recently retired as Chair of Democracy in Colour, Australia’s first racial justice initiative run by people of colour.

Alan previously served as the youngest and longest-serving member of the board of Oxfam Australia, as chair of Australia’s peak body for young people, as Envoy for Young People to the Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, and on the Australian National Commission for UNESCO. He was also an executive and lawyer with the Australian Government, working in the Departments of the Attorney-General, and Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Alan was the 2016 Australian National University Young Alumnus of the Year, and in 2019 was named an Obama Foundation Leader, and one of the 40 Most Influential Asian Australians Under 40.

He is admitted as a lawyer to the Supreme Court of the Australian Capital Territory, and is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the Governance Institute of Australia, and the Chartered Governance Institute.

“I hope the Pride Centre will be a place for our community to come together, celebrate the hard-won gains of those who’ve come before us, and find new energy and support for our continuing journey. Together, we’re helping build a future where everyone is free to proudly be themselves.”

Jason Hay is a Regional Manager at IFM Investors, a global institutional investment manager. He is also Deputy Chair of the Royal Botanical Gardens Victoria, a role he has held since October 2023. 

 Jason previously held senior management positions at ISPT, Fort Street Real Estate Capital and the Coles Group. Jason has also he spent a number of years in London, holding positions at EA Shaw Chartered Surveyors and Foxtons.  

 Jason was previously Partnerships Director and a board member at GLOBE (Gay and Lesbian Organisation of Business and Enterprise) and a committee member of Melbourne Frontrunners Running Club (an LGBTIQA+ running club). 

 He holds a Master of Business Administration (Executive) and Certificate IV in Real Estate, and is a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. 

 A proud parent of a rainbow family, Jason is passionate about helping the Pride Centre continue to be a welcoming place for all, particularly those early into their journey identifying as a member of our LGBTIQA+ community. 

Dan joined the Victorian Pride Centre Board as a board member in November 2025. He is a respected executive leader and experienced lawyer with 20 years of cross-sector experience driving social, environmental and governance strategy, engagement and impact.   

Dan is known for combining legal acumen with a strong commitment to purpose-led leadership, and he has extensive experience shaping responsible business,  sustainability and social impact strategies, including pro bono practice, community engagement, risk & compliance, governance & reporting, impact measurement, stakeholder engagement and environmental management systems.  

Prior to his appointment to the Victorian Pride Centre, Dan served as a Director on the boards of Reconciliation NSW (2020–2022), the Arts Law Centre of Australia (2020–2022), and the Australian Pro Bono Centre (2014–2019). He also chaired Inner Melbourne Community Legal from 2012–2015.   

Dan was previously the Director of Responsible Business at King & Wood Mallesons, leading the firm’s pro bono, social impact and environmental portfolio across Australia and Singapore for 8 years. He also previously held roles as Partner & Head of Pro Bono & Responsible Business at Colin Biggers & Paisley and Pro Bono Director, Asia Pacific, at DLA Piper.   

He holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons.) and a Bachelor of Media Studies (Journalism) from La Trobe University. He recently completed the LGBTIQA+ Executive Fellowship at The University of Sydney Business School. Dan was also recognised with a Distinguished Alumni Award from La Trobe University in 2024. 

Lee is an experienced communications and engagement leader in the creative industries. 

For almost 20 years she has worked with cultural organisations to communicate their vision, attract audiences, engage stakeholders, and measure impact. She has worked for organisations such as Southbank Centre London, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Arena Theatre Company and most recently part of the leadership team driving the cultural strategy at the University of Melbourne. She has served on Boards including Arena Theatre Company and Outer Urban Projects. 

Lee has a particular passion for engaging under-represented audiences and expanding pathways for participation into the sector. She is now working as a Creative Industries Consultant dedicated to helping organisations and artists to advocate for the transformational power of arts and culture through strategic planning, communications management, fundraising and advocacy. 

Paul is an international leader who has worked with large heritage retail and hospitality brands both in the UK and Australia and has experience in the not-for-profit sector in Australia. He is a proud member of the rainbow community and lives in the City of Stonnington with his fiancé. Paul has a passion for equality, inclusion and fairness and loves the Victorian Pride Centre’s ethos of a welcoming safe, accessible and exciting space for all LGBTIQA+ communities.

Paul has been a volunteer at JOY Media since 2016, both on and off the microphone, supporting the storytelling our diverse communities. Paul has also been on the JOY Board for two years 2022-24, and most recently as JOY Media President and Board Chair. As an avid music, theatre and arts fan, Paul has enjoyed championing new young queer writers, artists and performers of all genres both in Australia and from overseas. Paul holds a BA with Hons in Accountancy & Finance.

Paul is keen to ensure the Victorian Pride Centre is a vibrant inspirational centre for all LGBTIQA+ communities.

Samantha brings almost a decade of experience in marketing, communications, and fundraising across both agency and in-house roles. Her career has been shaped by a strong commitment to social justice, with a particular focus on feminist and women’s rights organisations in the not-for-profit sector.

Having grown up in a country where being queer was illegal, Samantha’s lived experience informs her empathetic and inclusive approach to storytelling and engagement. She is passionate about building authentic connections and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities, especially within LGBTIQA+ multicultural spaces.

At the Victorian Pride Centre, Samantha leads strategic communications and fundraising initiatives that celebrate diversity and drive meaningful impact. Outside of work, she’s a proud cat mum and loves discovering new foods.

Jack brings over a decade of leadership and management experience in the health and fitness industry, alongside three years in owners corporation management. With a BA (Hons) in Media Writing and a strong background in administration, operations, and executive support, Jack is highly skilled in streamlining processes, managing communications, and ensuring seamless office management.

Throughout his career, Jack has successfully led teams, improved operational efficiencies, and built strong relationships across diverse industries. His expertise spans diary and schedule management, stakeholder coordination, and creating organised, productive workplaces where teams can thrive. Jack is passionate about fostering a positive office culture and providing high-level support to senior leadership.

Outside of work, Jack enjoys staying active, exploring the outdoors, and engaging with initiatives that promote health, fitness, and community connection.

Anita has over 10 years of experience in venue and event management, working with arts organisations such as Arts House, Queen Victoria Women’s Centre, Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, and RISING festival. As the Event & Program Manager at the Victorian Pride Centre, she is dedicated to creating impactful events that celebrate and uplift the LGBTIQA+ community.

With a background in arts management, Anita loves overseeing large-scale events, and fostering inclusive, engaging experiences. She is passionate about promoting diversity and creativity and contributing to meaningful change within the community arts and cultural sector.

Valentin was born and raised in France before moving to Australia 9 years ago, following a brief stay in England. Captivated by Melbourne’s vibrant energy, he decided to make it his home – a decision he has cherished ever since

With over 15 years of experience in management and customer service, along with an experience in venues, events, and festival coordination, Valentin is committed to ensure smooth booking processes and delivering exceptional service for the diverse spaces at the Pride Centre.  His role involves managing room bookings at the Pride Centre, ensuring all hirers have an exceptional experience.

“My journey began as a volunteer at the Pride Centre, and I am now proud to contribute full-time as the Booking Coordinator, supporting the LGBTIQA+ community.”

Tyler is committed to fostering safe and inclusive spaces, both in his professional role at the Victorian Pride Centre and in his broader community involvement. As Venue and Facilities Coordinator, Tyler ensures the Centre’s physical attributes are not only well-maintained but truly safe, creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and secure the moment they walk through the door. With expertise in building compliance, contractor management, and event support, Tyler combines strategic oversight with a personal commitment to care and community.

Tyler values working at the VPC for the opportunity to contribute to a place that uplifts the LGBTIQA+ community, while building strong relationships with resident organisations. Outside of work, Tyler continues to nurture inclusive spaces, whether hosting movie nights with friends or attending community events. His approach is defined by a balance of precision, warmth, and an unwavering dedication to safety and pride.

Adam is a seasoned executive consultant with a wealth of experience in IT solutions and transformational change programs, having worked across both the government and private sectors in the US, Singapore and Australia. With a career spanning several decades, Adam has been instrumental in driving innovation and efficiency in various organizations.

Having semi-retired from his professional endeavors, Adam has now chosen to focus on his background in volunteer program management. His commitment to social causes has shaped his perspective and approach, enabling him to lead impactful initiatives that foster community resilience and support. Adam’s work in various volunteer roles showcases his passion for making a difference and his ability to inspire others to contribute to meaningful change.

Having joined the VPC in April of 2024 as a volunteer, Adam continues to advocate for causes close to his heart, leveraging his extensive experience to mentor others and support community programs and is the Interim Concierge and Volunteer Program Coordinator at the VPC.

Ivy joins our team with a background in Marketing, Theatre-Making, and Producing. You will often see them around town working on various Theatre productions and writing another script. She is a graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts with a degree in Theatre and has worked in Marketing and Communications for major arts festivals, including Midsumma Festival. In addition to producing a range of Independant Theatre Productions, Ivy co-founded their own Theatre company, Big Dog Theatre.

Ivy is excited to be working at the Victorian Pride Centre on the second iteration of the Telling it with Pride Speakers Program, helping to build on last year’s success by amplifying the voices of LGBTIQA+ community speakers and leaders, both through the program and the LGBTIQA+ Speakers Bureau. She is passionate about arts access and collaborating with LGBTIQA+ artists, connecting them with new audiences. She is always ready to contribute to projects with play, joy, and creativity.

Katie joins our team having studied public relations and politics. She has interned with RISING festival and also works at Funlab – exercising her passion for joy and play. Katie has a particular interest in the arts and culture of Narrm, and you will find her at cinemas, galleries and festivals throughout the year.

In her spare time, Katie is also a marketing volunteer for Worthy Cause – a social enterprise that offers an employment program to people who have endured severe hardships and marginalisation. She is driven by social inclusion and change, and is constantly looking to work toward a more equitable world.

Brett is a versatile professional whose career has spanned the performing arts, digital media, and business development. Formerly a professional dancer performing on stages around the world, he spent a decade living in Germany, appearing in large-scale productions and becoming fluent in German. This international experience strengthened his passion for creativity, collaboration, and cross-cultural connection.

After completing studies in Internet Communications, Brett built a diverse career across digital marketing, sales, and entrepreneurship. His work has honed his skills in relationship management, communication, and strategic engagement — qualities he now brings to his role in philanthropy and partnerships at the Victorian Pride Centre.

A proud volunteer at JOY Media, Brett enjoys producing and creating radio content, developing interviews, features, and storytelling initiatives for the LGBTQIA+ community. Past highlights include interviews with Darren Hayes, Michelle Visage, JoJo Siwa, and G Flip. Passionate about storytelling, equality, and community-building, he is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections that help ensure the Victorian Pride Centre remains a welcoming and inspiring home for all LGBTIQA+ communities.