A proud Ngarrindjeri man and experienced Aboriginal leader, Clyde brings significant leadership, governance, community engagement and reconciliation experience to the role, together with a strong commitment to advancing relationships, respect and meaningful action between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.
Clyde has held senior leadership positions across Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and the broader reconciliation sector, including serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Ngarrindjeri Regional Authority. Across his career, he has worked at the intersection of culture, community, education, leadership and reconciliation, building partnerships and creating opportunities for Aboriginal voices, knowledge and aspirations to inform decision-making.
His appointment marks an important new chapter for Reconciliation SA as the organisation continues to strengthen its role as South Australia’s peak body for reconciliation and expand its reach, partnerships and impact across the state.
Reconciliation SA Co-Chairperson’s Emma Kokar and Jeremy Johncock welcomed the appointment and said Clyde’s experience and leadership would position the organisation strongly for its next phase.
“Clyde brings a deep understanding of community, culture and the reconciliation movement, combined with extensive leadership experience and a strong record of building relationships across sectors,” Mr Johncock said.
“Following a comprehensive national recruitment process, the Board is delighted to welcome Clyde as Chief Executive Officer. His appointment reflects our ambition to strengthen Reconciliation SA’s leadership and continue building a movement that engages communities, governments, businesses and organisations across South Australia.
“Reconciliation requires sustained leadership, strong relationships and a willingness to turn commitment into meaningful action. We look forward to working alongside Clyde as Reconciliation SA enters this next chapter.”
The Board also acknowledges and thanks Shaun Childs for his leadership as Acting Chief Executive Officer during an important period of organisational transition.
“Shaun stepped into the Acting Chief Executive Officer role at a critical time for Reconciliation SA, providing stability, continuity and strong leadership to the organisation and its team as we commenced the process of change and undertook a national search for our next Chief Executive Officer,” Mr Johncock said.
“On behalf of the Board, I extend our sincere appreciation to Shaun for the commitment, professionalism and leadership he has demonstrated. His contribution has provided an important foundation for this next chapter and ensured Reconciliation SA remained focused on its people, partners and purpose throughout the transition."
As the incoming Chief Executive Officer, Clyde will lead Reconciliation SA’s strategic direction, operations, partnerships and advocacy, working closely with the Board, staff, members, communities and partners to strengthen reconciliation outcomes across South Australia.
Clyde said he was honoured to have the opportunity to lead Reconciliation SA and build upon the organisation’s longstanding work.
“I am deeply honoured to join Reconciliation SA and contribute to an organisation that has played such an important role in bringing people together and creating opportunities for meaningful reconciliation across South Australia,” Mr Rigney said.
“Reconciliation is built through relationships, truth, respect and action. I look forward to listening and working alongside Aboriginal communities, our partners and the broader South Australian community to continue building stronger relationships and creating lasting change.
“There is significant work ahead, and I am excited by the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of Reconciliation SA.”
Reconciliation SA looks forward to welcoming Clyde into the role and continuing its work to advance reconciliation through education, engagement, partnerships, advocacy and community-led action across South Australia.
For enquiries please contact Reconciliation SA via: admin@reconciliationsa.org.au