The Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Danica Leys as its Chief Executive Officer. Danica brings fresh enthusiasm to the NSW arm of Australia’s largest women’s organisation, as well as a raft of experience in not-for-profit, government and rural organisations.

According to CWA of NSW President Tanya Cameron, the appointment heralds the beginning of a future-focused era for the CWA.

“This year sees the election of new Office Bearers in May and we have recently approved a new Strategic Plan to take the Organisation through to 2018. The appointment of a CEO is another step in this process of building an exciting future,” said Tanya.

Tanya hopes Danica’s appointment will capture the attention of a broad range of potential members, however she is most excited about Danica’s capacity to boost the CWA’s already-strong record of advocacy.

“Danica’s experience within industry, government and legal sectors will be invaluable. Furthermore, thanks to her agricultural background and rural experience, she knows and understands regional Australia. We are confident she will help us achieve the Organisation’s strategic objectives,” said Tanya.

Ms Leys has most recently been with NSW Farmers, in both policy and industrial relations areas, and in 2012 she was awarded the NSW Rural Women’s Award for her efforts in the rural sector. She has held board positions with Australian Women in Agriculture Limited, AgChatOZ Incorporated and The University of Sydney Agriculture Alumni. She holds Bachelor Degrees in Agriculture (Honours) and Laws and has completed the highly regarded Australian Institute of Company Directors Course.

Like Tanya, Danica is already passionate about the Organisation’s advocacy position and is keen to help build on the successes achieved to date.

“The CWA is a force to be reckoned with. Full of passionate, articulate members that care deeply about rural and regional communities. When they speak strongly on an issue the government listens. I am interested in harnessing that and ensuring members have an organisation that enables their voice to be heard at the highest levels, with key decision makers,” said Danica.

Danica is also looking forward to focusing on potential partnerships and alliances to leverage both advocacy and fundraising efforts; however initially, she looks forward to starting from within. 

“In the first instance, my role is to listen, meet as many members as possible and understand what they want from a modern, progressive and influential organisation like the CWA,” said Danica, who concludes by recognising retiring Executive Officer Donna Wilkins, “I want to give credit to Donna, who has steered the organisation to where it is today. She has done a wonderful job and leaves the Organisation in a great position to take on new challenges and grow even more into the future.”

From Country Women's Association of NSW Media Release 23 March 2016