genU chief executive Clare Amies resigns from role after five years

The leader survived tens of millions of dollars in losses and a petition calling for her sacking before she announced her resignation on Wednesday afternoon.

genU CEO Clare Amies has announced her resignation after five years in the role. Picture: Supplied.

An embattled Geelong disability service will begin the search for a new boss after the current chief executive announced her departure on Wednesday.

genU leader Clare Amies will leave once a suitable replacement is found.

She served in the role for nearly five years after starting in June 2020.

In a statement released on Wednesday, genU said the decision had been made after careful strategic consideration.

Ms Amies said her time had been a “privilege” and that the business was in safe hands.

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together, and confident in genU’s future,” she said.

“I look forward to supporting a smooth and thoughtful transition over the months ahead.”

As the organisation’s leader, Ms Amies oversaw a number of scandals.

The business recorded alarming financial losses totalling almost $40m between 2022 and 2024.

After recording a deficit of $10m in 2022/23, the company’s finances plunged even further into the red after it was revealed they had lost $29m the following financial year.

genU headquarters on Reynolds Rd, Belmont. Picture: Alison Wynd

Ms Amies put the devastating result down to “big changes” the business was facing.

“Our loss can be largely apportioned to three areas: divestments, investments and properties being revalued,” she said.

In June 2024, she managed to survive a petition led by her own staff calling for her sacking in relation to allegations of a toxic workplace culture.

The bid received more than 150 votes but Ms Amies continued leading the organisation.

Months later, two men were arrested for suspected fraudulent activity relating to millions of dollars going missing from genU’s coffers.

Ms Amies said it was “extremely disappointing” but insisted the company’s day-to-day operations were categorically unaffected.

Board chair Ingrid Williams said Ms Amies’ decision to stay while they looked for a successor would leave the business in a position of “stability and strength”.

genU chair Ingrid Williams and board member Elaine Carbines. Picture: Supplied.

“Clare has kindly agreed to continue in her role until a successor has been recruited, ensuring a smooth and well-managed transition,” she said.

Ms Williams said the outgoing leader had been rock solid during periods of change and, at times, uncertainty.

“Clare has brought clarity, compassion and determination to her role, guiding genU through a time of great transformation with a strong focus on our mission and the people we support.”

Prior to her time at genU, Ms Amies was chief executive of WorkSafe Victoria from 2015 to 2019.

Originally published as genU chief executive Clare Amies resigns from role after five years