Parks and Leisure Australia unveils new look executive team

Parks and Leisure Australia has announced a generational change in its leadership with the unveiling of a new executive team.

The changes have seen Kristin Davies appointed as President, Tara Looby as Deputy President, and Stefan Ratnasingham as the PLA’s new Director of Finance.

In a statement, PLA advised “with this exceptional team at the helm, we are confident in the exciting developments ahead for our organisation, our industry, and our members.”

The statement added “these appointments reflect our strategic focus and commitment to driving the organisation forward. The collective experience that Kristin, Tara, and Stefan bring will inject a new wave of energy, innovation, collaboration, and strategic vision into our organisation.

“Notably, this marks the first time in Parks and Leisure Australia’s history that both the President and Deputy President roles are held by females, underscoring our progress in our mission to achieve gender equity.

“As we continue to implement our national strategic plan and advance our initiatives, we are confident that this leadership team will contribute to the ongoing success of Parks and Leisure Australia.”

Kristin Davies, President - Parks and Leisure Australia
The current acting Manager Integrated Planning at Surf Coast Shire Council, Davies is described as a “dynamic and dedicated change leader with over 15 years of industry experience”.

The PLA statement goes on to say “with a keen focus on partnerships, community outcomes, and advancing the industry, Kristin brings a wealth of expertise from diverse sectors including public and private domains. Her roles in leadership spans social policy, social infrastructure and open space planning, land management, and integrated placemaking, reflecting a versatile background.

“As a pivotal figure in Parks and Leisure Australia, Kristin has served as Deputy President for more than two years and held a directorial position on the National Board since 2018.

“Her contributions have been instrumental in driving national strategy, sustainable growth, and representing the organisation at industry conferences and events on both national and international stages.”

Tara Looby, Deputy President - Parks and Leisure Australia
Tara Looby is the Group Manager of IVM Group, bringing, as PLA advise, “her extensive expertise in open space management to the forefront. Recognising the pivotal role that open spaces play in fostering vibrant and healthy communities, Tara leverages her wealth of experience to drive initiatives that promote active living and community engagement.

PLA add “with a robust background in marketing spanning numerous industries, Tara possesses a diverse skill set that encompasses both operational and strategic dimensions. Her proficiency extends beyond traditional marketing roles, as she demonstrates a keen ability to conduct thorough research and analysis, identifying market demands, market trends, and gaps in the landscape. All of this is key to understanding how membership based organisations can better understand what members want, and how to provide this whilst aligning with where the industry is moving.”

Stefan Ratnasingham, Finance Director - Parks and Leisure Australia
Stefan Ratnasingham brings 10 years of diverse experience to his role as Finance Director. Having spent a significant portion of his career in public practice accounting firms specialising in tax, audit, and superannuation, Stefan has supported a variety of clients across different industries.

Currently serving as the National Finance Manager at Clublinks, Stefan's passion for accounting intersects with his dedication to supporting the delivery of sport and recreation to the community.

PLA note “Stefan's commitment to community extends beyond his professional endeavors, as he has previously volunteered for Scouts Australia, encouraging youth to challenge themselves. Stefan holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Finance from Swinburne University of Technology and a Graduate Diploma of Chartered Accounting.”

Moving Forward
PLA advise that “as a national organisation representing our members, we are excited about the wealth of knowledge, fresh perspectives and proactive approach that this new executive team will bring. We believe that their vision will propel our industry to new heights and inspire our members to embrace innovation, collaboration, and best practice.

“We urge all our members to join us in welcoming Kristin, Tara, and Stefan to their new roles, and to stand alongside them as they guide Parks and Leisure Australia towards a future defined by excellence, connection, and growth.”

Image: PLA's new executive team (from left): Kristen Davies, Tara Looby and Stefan Ratnasingham. Credit: Parks and Leisure Australia.