06/05/2019
Important announcement from the Chairman, Bible Society Australia
Dear friends,
It is with a mix of gratitude, sadness and faith for the future, that the Board of Bible Society Australia accepts the resignation of Dr Greg Clarke from the position of CEO.
Over the last 9 years, Greg has served the Society with absolute distinction – leading us through the amalgamation of the six States into one national body, and the acquisition of Eternity news service, the media company Centre for Public Christianity (which Greg co-founded), the retail book chain Koorong, and two publishing businesses (Acorn Press and Morning Star Publishing).
We have continued our international and local Bible mission work, providing funding for over 30 international projects every year and continuing our work to engage all Australians with the Bible, including indigenous Bible translation.
Greg also helped us celebrate 200 years of the Bible Society in Australia in 2017, and at the time hosted the United Bible Societies Roundtable with around 90 nations in attendance.
It is fair to say that as we enjoyed our bicentenary, not only were we flourishing as an organisation but the impact of our work was at its most influential ever. And it all continues to be stronger and more focused with each year since.
Greg has led the Society with distinction and will finish with us at the end of June.
It has been an unprecedented period in our history and one which sets us up well to further our mission for the next 200 years.
In his announcement to the Society’s Executive team, Greg noted his pride in the achievements and impact of the Society, and his belief that now is the optimal time to change leadership to continue the momentum for the next generation. He expressed his optimism for the future and thanked donors and partners for their ongoing contributions.
The Board has appointed an executive recruitment agency to assist in the search for our next leader, and I will keep you informed of our progress.
In the meantime, Chief Operating Officer, Melissa Lipsett will act as CEO from the end of June until the new CEO is appointed. Melissa has a depth of experience having served on the Bible Society Board for 4 years prior to being appointed as COO nearly 3 years ago.
In conclusion and on behalf of the Board, I hope you will join me in thanking Greg for his dedicated service and in celebrating his lasting legacy and contribution to our proud history. Succession is an important season and we are confident that God will provide gracious guidance for both Greg and the Bible Society Australia in the months ahead.
Anne Robinson, AM
Chairman, Bible Society Australia
