Prof. The Hon. Jill Hennessy will assume the role of Chair of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation, succeeding Jenny Taing OAM in the role.
Hennessy – a former Victorian Minister of Health and Attorney-General who spent 13 years in State Parliament – had served as Vice Chair of the WBCF board since last year.
Stephen Scanlon – who was appointed to the board in February of this year – has been endorsed as her deputy, with both officially assuming their roles in February 2026.
Taing will step down from the board after nine years of dedicated service, including 18 months as Chair. Western Bulldogs President Kylie Watson-Wheeler thanked her for her dedication to the Foundation.
“As a Club we are grateful for everything Jenny has done for our Community Foundation, and the many years of creativity and leadership she has brought to the board table,” Watson-Wheeler said.
“The work that has been completed during her time as Chair means the Foundation will enter a new era with expanded programs, a refreshed brand and strong foundations for further growth and impact.”
Brendan Peacock will also step off the board but will remain in service on the Western Bulldogs Forever Foundation board, while Aisha Nicolay departed in October to take up a position as the Deputy Chair at the Port of Hastings Corporation.
Louise Perry - who departed her role as GM of the Foundation earlier this month - will return to a board position which she first assumed in late 2021 and will be joined by Michael Murray, an experienced industrial relations and human resources practitioner. Hannah Singleton has taken on the role of Acting GM of the Foundation.
Hennessy, who joined the board in November 2022, also thanked Taing for her service to the Foundation.
"Jenny has been a wonderful advocate for the Community Foundation's work and her dedication and passion over an extended period will be missed," Hennessy said.
"I would also like to acknowledge Aisha for the experience she provided throughout her five years on the board, and to Brendan for his expertise over almost four years of service.
"I also want to recognise Louise for her significant contribution and leadership during her time as GM and we are delighted she will continue to support the Foundation through her ongoing service on the Board.
“My thanks also go to Hannah Singleton, who has stepped into the Acting GM role and will help guide the Foundation through this transition period.
"After a year of meaningful progress I look forward to working with Stephen and our entire board as we look to realise our strategic ambitions and broaden and enhance the Foundation’s life-changing efforts across the region."
Scanlon - who was appointed to the board in February of this year - brings extensive experience in finance, strategy, governance and commercial leadership, having served as Chief Financial Officer, Company Secretary, and in senior executive roles, across both public and large private companies in Australia and internationally.
Murray has undertaken senior human resources roles across a number of industries and sectors, including defence, airlines, transport, construction, logistics and the tertiary sector.
As the community arm of the Club, the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation delivers life-changing initiatives in health and wellbeing, youth leadership, cultural diversity, social inclusion, and community advocacy.
