Our Executive Team

“I’m motivated by the sheer audacity of our mission and our power to change lives for the better, here in Australia, the Pacific, and around the world.”

Mat Tinkler is a deep policy thinker and a fierce advocate for children and our mission. He has driven change for children by transforming Save the Children Australia's approach to delivering impactful programs at scale that are locally led and globally connected, while ensuring we have a strong public voice for and with vulnerable children through our media, advocacy, and campaigns work. More about Mat.

“Working at Save the Children enables me to live my purpose to inspire those around me to be curious, take risks, drive change, and grow. It’s a privilege to strive for better outcomes for children every day.” 

Mel’s expertise is leading transformational change in complex environments, including extensive experience working with teams across the UK, Singapore, Philippines, India, Hong Kong, USA, and throughout the broader Asia Pacific region. Mel leads our technology, people and culture, risk, safeguarding, safety and services teams. She is a passionate advocate for the empowerment and advancement of women and girls.

“There is real joy in being part of a huge tribe of supporters, volunteers, partners and our staff all pulling in the same direction to create change, hand in hand with and for children.”

Jo leads Save the Children's fundraising, marketing and retail portfolio. She generates essential support to resource Save the Children's work in domestic and international programs. She is committed to strengthening communities and supporting children through the development of strong partnerships and delivery of great supporter experiences.

“The real motivation for me is ensuring sustainability is embedded in everything we do for impact with innovative financing at the core, given the growing and unmet need globally.”

Michael is a seasoned expert in finance and supporting services across commercial, government and not-for-profit, with an interest in reimagining finance for the not-for-profit sector.

“I'm constantly inspired by the work our people do and motivated by the courage and curiosity of children and young people. I often think, if only we, as adults could maintain the resilience and hope that children bring to the world.”

Matt is an experienced, passionate counsellor and advocate for social justice. Under his leadership, 54 reasons was born, orienting our name and practice around a commitment to children's rights. He is a current Treasurer of the sector peak body, ACOSS, Chair of the board at Queensland Council of Social Service, board member of Yourtown (powering Kids Helpline), and has a Ministerial appointment as an Expert member in the development of a Blueprint for the Australian charities sector.

“I love working for an organisation with such an inspiring history of engaging with children in every corner of the planet to secure their rights to health, education and protection. We’re part of a movement that serves 100 million children per year – that’s a very special feeling.”

Francis Woods has worked in international programs for nearly 20 years – the first decade working in countries like South Sudan, Kenya, Haiti, Yemen and Libya; and the second decade working from Save the Children offices in London and Melbourne to create the right operating environments in more than 70 countries to deliver high quality interventions for children.