NOFASD appoints new Chief Executive Officer

We are thrilled to announce that after a successful interim period as Acting CEO, Sophie Harrington has been permanently appointed as the CEO of the National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (NOFASD) Australia, effective immediately.

Sophie has been elevated to the role after serving as the Chief Operating Officer of the national peak body for the past 7 years.

Chair of the NOFASD Board, Cheryl Dedman, said Sophie was ideally placed to lead the organisation forward, drawing on her extensive sector experience, leadership and advocacy and her drive to further expand the reach and impact of the organisation.

“We wholeheartedly congratulate Sophie on her appointment,” Ms Dedman said.

“She brings extensive leadership experience from frontline services and senior management roles across the alcohol and other drugs, out-of-home care, and justice sectors, and almost a decade within NOFASD. We are fortunate to have drawn on the outstanding leadership and expertise within our organisation to continue to deliver on our vision to prevent alcohol-exposed pregnancies and improve the quality of life for people impacted by FASD in Australia.”

Ms Dedman also thanked outgoing CEO Louise Gray.

“Louise has served as NOFASD Australia’s CEO from 2016 to late 2024 and has had a central role in entrenching NOFASD as the national peak body for families and individuals affected by FASD.” She will continue to play an integral role within the organisation as a Specialist Advisor,” she said.

Sophie expressed her gratitude for the appointment.

“I am honoured to formally step into this role and lead such a passionate and dedicated team. I look forward to working together to shape the future of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) awareness and support for families and individuals,” she said.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Louise Gray for her exceptional leadership, advocacy and vision – an extraordinary legacy that will continue in the years ahead as we broaden our impact.”