YMCA Australia Executive and Leadership Team

Peter Schwarz, the Chief Executive Officer at YMCA Australia, directs the overarching strategic vision for all youth-focused programs across Victoria. Overseeing the alignment of learning, leadership, and social impact initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization maintains its long-standing commitment to community development. This leadership role involves managing complex partnerships with government bodies and corporate entities to expand the reach of the YMCA Bridge Project and other critical support services. By prioritizing sustainable growth and operational excellence, Peter Schwarz drives the mission to help young people reach their full potential. The Chief Executive Officer maintains constant communication with the Board to refine organizational goals and secure the resources necessary for ongoing success. Through this dedicated focus on youth empowerment, Schwarz secures the future of the organization as a pillar of community support.

Naomi Edwards, the PA To Chief Executive Officer at YMCA Australia, manages the complex administrative requirements and scheduling priorities for the executive office. Coordinating high-level meetings and facilitating communication between the Chief Executive Officer and external stakeholders, the PA To Chief Executive Officer ensures seamless operational flow. This role involves organizing critical documentation for Youth Parliament and other major initiatives, allowing the leadership team to focus on strategic objectives. By streamlining daily workflows and managing sensitive correspondence, Naomi Edwards optimizes the efficiency of the executive suite. The PA To Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous standards for project tracking and internal reporting, ensuring that all administrative tasks align with the broader mission of the organization. Through meticulous attention to detail, Edwards supports the executive team in delivering impactful youth services across the region.

Peter Cargin, the Group Chief Financial Officer at YMCA Australia, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning for all organizational activities. Overseeing budget allocation for learning, leadership, and social impact programs, the Group Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources are distributed to maximize the effectiveness of youth services. This role involves monitoring financial performance, managing audits, and ensuring compliance with government funding requirements. By implementing rigorous financial controls, Peter Cargin drives the sustainability of the YMCA Bridge Project and other critical initiatives. The Group Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive team to evaluate the financial viability of new programs and expansion opportunities. Through precise financial oversight and strategic resource management, Cargin secures the economic stability of the organization, allowing for the continued delivery of high-quality support to young people across Victoria.

Shane Riddel, the Chief Information Officer at YMCA Australia, architects the digital infrastructure required to support diverse youth programs and community services. Overseeing the implementation of secure data systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures that information technology initiatives align with the operational needs of Y Spaces and youth training platforms. This role involves managing cybersecurity protocols and digital transformation projects that enhance service delivery across Victoria. By optimizing technical resources, Shane Riddel drives the efficiency of internal processes and improves the user experience for young participants. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with other department heads to integrate technology into the YMCA Bridge Project and Rebuild initiatives, facilitating better tracking of educational and employment outcomes. Through robust technical leadership, Riddel secures the digital foundation necessary for the organization to scale its impact effectively.

Jay Holl, the Chief Marketing Officer at YMCA Australia, directs all brand strategy and community engagement efforts to increase awareness of youth services. Overseeing the development of multi-channel campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the organization effectively communicates the value of programs like Student Leadership Days and the Youth Press Gallery. This role involves managing public relations and digital outreach to attract partners and participants across the region. By crafting compelling narratives that highlight the social impact of the organization, Jay Holl drives engagement with diverse youth populations. The Chief Marketing Officer works closely with operational teams to align marketing initiatives with the specific needs of local communities. Through strategic brand positioning, Holl expands the visibility of the organization, ensuring that young people have access to the resources and support required for personal development.

Greg Jennings, the Chief Operations Officer at YMCA Australia, directs the day-to-day execution of youth services and facility management across the region. Overseeing the operational logistics for Y Spaces and training centers, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that all programs meet safety and quality standards. This role involves managing the staff and resources required to deliver the YMCA Rebuild and Bridge Project initiatives effectively. By optimizing service delivery models, Greg Jennings drives operational efficiency and ensures that programs remain accessible to diverse youth populations. The Chief Operations Officer coordinates with regional managers to maintain consistent service quality and address the evolving needs of the community. Through hands-on management and process improvement, Jennings ensures that the organization remains a reliable provider of education, training, and employment support for young people throughout Victoria.