David Thorsen

David Thorsen is the current Executive Director of People & Culture at Yooralla. Prior to this, they were the Director of Human Resource Services at the University of New England, Australia from January 2013 to February 2020. In this role, David was responsible for the development of both strategic and operational initiatives across the broad spectrum of Human Resources with a particular focus on workforce planning, provision of strategic advice and solutions, employee relations, business relationship management, process improvement, efficiency and quality of service, quality assurance, compliance and risk management as well as contributing to high level policy and organisational development.

Before their role at the University of New England, David was the Director, Organisational Culture & Communication at Chisholm Institute from January 2005 to December 2012. In this role, David oversaw all facets of Human Resource Management for the Institute including Employee Relations, Industrial Relations Organisational Development, Workforce Planning, Occupational Health & Safety and Payroll services. Additionally, David acted as Board Secretary and oversaw Corporate Governance ensuring that the Chisholm Board of Directors operated effectively in line with best practice Corporate Governance principles. Furthermore, David oversaw all facets of student support and advisory services for both current and prospective students as well as the Institute’s customer service function and general community engagement. Lastly, David was responsible for the strategic positioning of marketing for the Institute in a commercialised market driven environment.

David Thorsen has a Graduate Diploma in Labour Relations Law from the University of Melbourne, a Bachelor of Business in Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General from Deakin University, and they have completed Year 7 - Year 12 at Eltham College. David also has a GAICD from the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

They work with Elaine Krassas - Executive Director, Community Services, Bruce Ryan - Chief Information Officer, and Leanne Turner - Executive Director, Residential and Respite Support Service. David Thorsen reports to Sherene Devanesen, Chief Executive Officer.