Jay Weatherill scores new job with Andrew Forrest’s Minderoo Foundation
Former premier Jay Weatherill has a new job. It’s not in politics, it’s not in lobbying, it’s not even in South Australia.
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Former premier Jay Weatherill will move his family to Perth after scoring a new job with Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest’s Minderoo Foundation.
Mr Weatherill will take over as chief executive of the foundation’s Thrive by Five initiative, which advocates for education, health and social policies and investment targeted at improving early childhood development across the country.
The Minderoo Foundation was established by the iron ore magnate and wife Nicola in 2001, and the pair have since pumped around $1.5 billion into a range of global health, environment and social initiatives.
Mr Weatherill, who will start his new role in January, said it was time for a national conversation about the importance of “evidence-based investment in our kids’ futures”.
“Far too many Australian kids are still slipping through the cracks,” he said.
“As a nation, we must prioritise the wellbeing and development of these children for the benefit of the child, their family and the future of our country.
“While governments must show leadership, communities hold a central role in leading this conversation.
“I have always strived to involve citizens in the decisions that affect their lives and I can’t think of a more dynamic and ambitious organisation than Minderoo Foundation in championing this cause.”
Mr Weatherill, wife Melissa and their two daughters Lucinda and Alice will relocate to Perth a year after the former premier announced his retirement from state politics.
He served the parliament for 16 years, including more than six years as premier.
Earlier this year he became an Industry Professor at the University of South Australia, supporting MBA students in the university’s business school.
Ms Forrest said Mr Weatherill had a proven track record in “people-centred leadership” and had demonstrated a “genuine passion to make a difference”.
“We are absolutely delighted to appoint a leader with such outstanding credentials,” she said.
“Jay’s political insight, sincere interest in early childhood development and extensive experience will be an asset to our organisation and the communities we serve.
“I look forward to Jay continuing our collaborative work with partners to ensure every Australian child gets the best possible start in life.”
Mr Weatherill will report to Minderoo Foundation chief executive Andrew Hagger.
He replaces outgoing Thrive by Five chief executive Steve Clifford, who spent six months in the role.