Revealed: Lifeline Darling Downs and South West appoints new CEO

Lifeline has revealed who will replace well-respected CEO Derek Tuffield after much community speculation since he announced his retirement this year.

Known for empowering people to live to their full potential, one of the region’s most respected organisations has announced its new chief executive officer.

Grant Simpson has been appointed as the new CEO for Lifeline Darling Downs and South West, by the board of directors.

With more than three decades worth of experience in leadership, partnership development and management roles, Mr Simpson has previously worked in both the corporate and not-for-profit sectors.

His most recent role was the CEO for aged care and disability support provider MWP Care, which has delivered services in the Northern Sydney region for more than 50 years.

Some of his career highlights at MWP include leading the team to improve the operations of the organisation by adopting technology and enhancing client outcomes.

It comes after his predecessor Derek Tuffield announced his retirement in August this year, after more than 34 years with Lifeline and 21 years as CEO.

““We are extremely excited to welcome Grant to the organisation to take over from Derek,” Lifeline Darling Downs and South West board chair Andrew Taylor said.

“Grant was chosen from a field of candidates after an extensive recruitment campaign.

“The Board looks forward to working with Grant as we start a new chapter at the organisation.”

Mr Tuffield previously told The Chronicle the highlight of his time with Lifeline was when he co-ordinated community recovery teams across 16 different locations in the Darling Downs and Southwest Queensland, after the floods in 2011.

“I hope to leave behind a cultural legacy of inclusion, respect and compassion, and a continued response to community needs as they arise,” Mr Tuffield said.

“I’m still passionate about assisting Toowoomba’s youth wherever I can and plan to carry on chairing meetings as efficiently as ever.”

The 66-year-old plans to spend his retirement years spending time with his wife Rosemerry, cats Moomoo and Simba and on the golf course.

Mr Simpson will commence his new role with Lifeline in early January next year.

For more information, visit lifelinedarlingdowns.org.au.

Originally published as Revealed: Lifeline Darling Downs and South West appoints new CEO