Our People

FOCUS Connect

Caring for Our Community

With over 100 employed staff and a dedicated group of volunteers, FOCUS Connect actively represents the ever-changing needs of our community, delivering essential services and advocating for the interests of individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds (CALD) and older Australians.

Our Services

Our People

At FOCUS Connect, our committed team provides a diverse array of services, from support groups and in-home care to community access, children's services, and financial hardship support. Guided by the executive team, FOCUS Connect is dedicated to steering the organisation's strategic direction, purpose, mission, and values with an unwavering commitment to community well-being.

the FOCUS Connect team
Darren Byrnes, Chairperson of FOCUS Connect

Darren Byrnes

Chairperson

Our Board Of Directors

FOCUS Connect’s Board of Directors comprises dedicated volunteers from the community providing crucial oversight and strategic leadership. With diverse backgrounds, the board members bring a range of skills and experience to contribute to their roles.

Meet The Board

Leadership Team at FOCUS Connect

The FOCUS Connect executive team has led the organisation through a period of reform, their dynamic leadership ensures the continued delivery of essential services while fostering innovation and adaptability.

Lee-Ann Byrnes, CEO of FOCUS Connect

Lee-Ann Byrnes

CEO

Lee-Ann Byrnes is a seasoned senior executive with extensive experience spanning over three decades across various industries. Currently serving as the CEO at Macarthur Diversity Services Initiative Ltd, trading as FOCUS Connect, she oversees financial control, administration, asset management, human resources, and IT along with the delivery of vital services in the Community and Aged Care sectors.


Her career journey includes past notable roles such as Company Secretary, Director and Financial Controller AU & NZ for a multinational auto parts distributor where she drove significant growth in revenue, EBIT and ROFE.


Lee-Ann has held key positions in both manufacturing and import industries, demonstrating her leadership and strategic foresight. As General Manager, she successfully led a company through a challenging transition, implementing strategies to mitigate risks and restore stability.


Her commitment to excellence, strategic thinking, and financial management expertise drive organisational growth and efficiency. A fellow member of the Institute of Public Accountants (FIPA FFA), Lee-Ann is a valuable asset in elevating business to higher levels of competitive service provision. 


Tanya Fung, Finance Manager at FOCUS Connect

Tanya Fung

Finance Manager

Tanya joined FOCUS Connect in 2020 bringing over 10 years experience in a variety of not-for-profit, family office and taxation. By using her passion in analysing numbers and adding value to an organisation, she is committed in making a positive impact to the community. Tanya has been a Chartered Accountant since 2017 and has a Bachelor of Business and Commerce at Western Sydney University majoring in Accounting.


Maya Almandarawi, HR Manager at FOCUS Connect

Ashish Dahiwalkar

HR Manager

Ashish brings over 20 years of Human Resources leadership experience to our team. His extensive expertise spans to successfully managing teams in Service, FMCG, Technology, Manufacturing and Not for Profit sectors. Ashish specialises in developing and executing programs and providing strategic counsel to organisational leaders on critical areas such as employee relations, strategic HR, culture, change management, and employee well-being.


Deeply committed to supporting and developing individuals within the organization, Ashish recognizes the pivotal role of people initiatives in driving strategic outcomes and overall success. 


At FOCUS Connect, we understand that our employees are our greatest asset. Ashish's unwavering dedication to championing their growth and well-being exemplifies our commitment to fostering a workplace where every individual thrives.


Tajudeen Fawehinmi, Quality Officer at FOCUS Connect

Tajudeen Fawehinmi

Quality Officer

Tajudeen Fawehinmi (TJ) is an accomplished Quality, Risk, and Compliance Manager with experience in the healthcare and community services sectors. With a deep understanding of regulatory requirements and best practices, TJ has a proven track record of implementing robust quality management systems and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

 

TJ combines a strong background in human resources and community mental health and committed to upholding the highest standards of care and compliance while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence with the delivery of exceptional care and support to service users. Accountability, Integrity, innovation, ongoing optimisation and collaboration are core values and principles he holds dearly to his heart.


Antonietta Bugge, Aged Care Manager at FOCUS Connect

Antonietta Bugge

Aged Care Manager

Antonietta has a diverse background in the disability and aged care sector. Implementing a person-centred approach, Antonietta has been able to provide care management and individual support to children, youth and adults with a disability to achieve their goals. 


Antonietta’s commitment to assisting individuals lead quality lives has continued in her multiple roles in senior management. She has a collaborative and inclusive leadership style to support teams in reaching shared goals and creating opportunities for success. 

FOCUS Connect team

Celebrating Diversity

Our Inclusive Team Culture

Our team encompasses individuals with diverse cultural, professional, and life backgrounds, fostering an inclusive culture that values the richness of our collective professional and life experiences as our greatest strength.


Explore the impact of our dedicated efforts, the transformative experiences of those we serve or find out how you can be involved.

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