Nicholas Lawson
Nick has served as Chief Executive Officer of Bobby Goldsmith Foundation for more than eight years, leading transformational growth, ensuring BGF delivers comprehensive care and support to over 800 community members living with HIV, with a particular focus on the complex needs of those ageing with HIV.
Nick oversees BGF’s diverse service portfolio and has successfully expanded BGF’s reach through our NDIS registration, while maintaining its person-centred approach to care.
Drawing on more than 20 years of humanitarian leadership experience with organisations including Médecins Sans Frontières and The Fred Hollows Foundation, Nick brings strategic vision and operational excellence to BGF’s mission. He holds a Master in Public Policy from Princeton University and is recognised for building effective teams and delivering measurable outcomes for Australia’s most vulnerable communities.
Motofumi Kotsuka
Moto is a senior, certified HR practitioner with over 16 years of extensive, generalist experience across multiple industries including government, global financial services and international and national NGOs. Known for his strategic thinking, leadership and stakeholder engagement, Moto thrives in building capabilities at all levels and contributing to the achievement of organisational objectives.
He holds a Bachelor of Economics (Econometrics) from Keio University in Japan, a Master of Arts from Sydney University and a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Human Resources Management from the Australian HR Institute.
As Director, People, Culture and Administration, Moto oversees people and culture, administration and risk and compliance. Covering the full spectrum of HR, he ensures BGF functions effectively, achieves its strategic goals and complies with state and federal requirements.
Rhys Leppard
Rhys brings more than 15 years of marketing and communications experience, primarily within the not-for-profit sector. With a Double Degree in Media and International Studies from the University of Adelaide, Rhys is passionate about using marketing for good, driving positive change and making a meaningful impact.
As Director, Public Engagement, Rhys is committed to amplifying the voices of the communities we serve. He leads efforts to ensure that BGF’s services reach those who need them most.
Rhys has worked extensively with vulnerable communities, understanding the unique challenges they often face. He has experience with LGBTQIA+ communities, people living with HIV, people with a disability and those who need aged care support. His inclusive and impactful marketing approach ensures that his work resonates with diverse audiences and supports the most vulnerable.
Mike Searle
Mike brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across multiple industries including business development, learning and development, disability and community services. He holds an Associate Degree in Applied Social Science (Management), a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science (Human Behaviour) and a Master’s Degree in Human Services with a specialisation in disability and generalist practice.
As Director, Client Services, Mike is passionate about delivering best practice HIV, disability and aged care support – particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community. He is well-versed in NDIS practice standards and aged care quality requirements and is dedicated to supporting all community members to maintain independence and to live life on their own terms.