Our Executive Team

Ruth Callaghan

Chief Executive Officer

Ruth has been CEO of Gowrie NSW since February 2008. Ruth has an extensive background in the human services in both service delivery and social policy, having worked in the not for profit and government sectors. She holds a Masters in Policy Studies from UNSW and a BA (Hons) from the University of Sydney.

Ruth is enhancing Gowrie’s effectiveness as a social enterprise as well as its standing as a well respected early childhood organisation delivering quality early childhood education and care services to the community. She has built on her extensive government policy experience and networks to build partnerships with a range of other non government CEO’s and policy makers in the NSW and Commonwealth Governments to develop and attract funding for new projects and ideas for quality service delivery to children and families.

Ruth has an ongoing personal and professional interest in applying the research evidence around prevention and early intervention to achieve positive outcomes for children, families and communities. She understands the importance of delivering on government policy priorities, financial effectiveness and demonstrating outcomes for clients, having worked in policy, strategic planning and change management roles.

Natalie Grenfell

Executive Director Children's Services

Natalie joined Gowrie in November 2009 as Executive Director of its Children’s Services Program overseeing the AMES program, Gowrie Child Care Centres and child and family projects including information lines. Natalie holds a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) and brings to her role a strong understanding and commitment to early childhood pedagogy and quality, evidence based practice. She is a passionate advocate for children and families and works collaboratively with Gowrie staff and families, as well as sector partners.

Natalie has an extensive background of over 15 years in direct service delivery in early childhood education and care in NSW in senior management and as a Centre Director. She is an expert in regulatory compliance for childcare centres and has a professional interest in OH&S and Risk Management. Natalie is also involved in planning and coordinating training and networking opportunities for early childhood education staff and management.  This is evidenced in her current involvement on the Executive of Early Childhood Australia NSW branch.