Sarah Beard steps down as Take 3’s CEO
After two years at the helm, Take 3 CEO Sarah Beard is finishing her time with us to take up an exciting new opportunity.
Throughout her career, Sarah has made a remarkable contribution to global ocean conservation and the critical issue of plastic pollution both as a documentary film producer and with her many years working with Take 3.
Sarah’s journey with Take 3 actually started back in 2014 when she was confronted by the impacts of plastic pollution and sought out an organisation that was doing something about it. Initially joining as a volunteer and then managing our inaugural Surf Life Saving Clubs program, Sarah also served a two-year tenure on Take 3’s board. In March 2020, Sarah left her previous career in film and television and took over as CEO of the organisation from Tim Silverwood.
“Over the past year the Take 3 team have accomplished significant achievements in spite of the major challenges faced locally and globally. They have all worked so incredibly hard and I am proud to be leaving Take 3 in a strong position with some fantastic programs and projects coming up in 2022 and some exciting new initiatives soon to be announced”.
– Sarah Beard.
Sarah Beard Photographed at Take 3 clean up events in 2021
“Sarah has made a significant contribution to Take 3 over the years. Throughout her time as CEO Sarah has played a crucial role in the growth and development of the organisation both financially and strategically and has steered us safely through the dynamic environment we are all currently operating in. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Sarah and wish her well in her new role”.
– Peter Janssen, Take 3 Chair
“What a privilege it has been to have the friendship and leadership of Sarah Beard. Sarah has been the most gracious intuitive CEO. She has sailed the Take 3 ship with strength, presence, humility, humour and dedication. Her ability to navigate the challenges presented in such unprecedented waters, was a credit to her strategic planning, her value system, her absolute amazing ability to make every single person ; whether volunteer, founder, staff, board member or a young person just trying their best to “Take 3 for the sea” know that their efforts meant something so much bigger than themselves. Her skills in storytelling and communication for conservation and sustainability have been a fantastic addition to our organisation. I watch with anticipation the next chapter of Sarah’s life and will always be one of her greatest fans”.
– Mandy Marechal, Take 3 co-founder.
“Sarah has played a pivotal role in not only my professional development as a filmmaker and storyteller but has demonstrated what a true leader is. Sarah goes above and beyond to ensure that each and every team member feels heard and appreciated. Her dedication to her staff is a prime example of her undying commitment to rescue planet ocean. Her passion and unique character will be greatly missed by all in the office but we are thrilled to see her taking a step forward to fulfill her childhood dream”.
– Georgia, Head of Digital Communications
Sarah will be officially leaving at the end of the month. Our Head of Partnerships Jenny-Lee will be the acting CEO from February whilst we recruit a replacement for Sarah. Jenny-Lee has been with Take 3 for over three years in both operations and now leads our partnerships department. She has made a substantial contribution in developing and building our stakeholder engagement and bringing significant partnerships to Take 3 over the past two years, Jenny-Lee’s extensive experience in multiple sectors including tourism, tertiary education and the business sector combined with her passion for the ocean and it’s protection make her a perfect interim CEO.
“I’d like to wholeheartedly thank the Take 3 team, our exceptional staff, our board and our volunteers. Your extraordinary commitment to the organisation and your unwavering passion for protecting our environment, has seen us have a substantial impact in what feels like a critical time in history for protecting our oceans. I look forward to staying connected to the organisation and watching it continue to grow with incredible impact in reducing the impacts of plastic pollution and waste in the ocean and broader environment. I leave you in very good hands with Jenny-Lee”.
– Sarah Beard
For more information and to apply for the position of CEO, click here.
