Trudi Mitchell speaks to Grace, a young Congolese refugee living at the Kyaka II Refugee Settlement in Kyegegwa District in western Uganda about her future aspirations to learn hairdressing and open her own business.
Trudi Mitchell

Trudi Mitchell

Chief Executive Officer

Trudi Mitchell is the Chief Executive Officer of Australia for UNHCR, leading the organisation’s ambitious vision to empower refugees around the world. Prior to her appointment in August 2022, Trudi served as the Deputy National Director of Australia for UNHCR for six years.

Trudi has extensive experience in senior executive roles across the not-for-profit sector. Her expertise spans strategy, innovation, leadership, public relations, communications, fundraising, technology and data. Before joining Australia for UNHCR, Trudi was the Director of Marketing and Communications at Cancer Council NSW. She has been a Board Director of WEAVE Youth and Community Services and for the Fundraising Institute of Australia (FIA).

Trudi is currently a Board member and chairs the Appeals Committee for the Emergency Action Alliance – a group of 15 Australian non-government organisations working together on humanitarian emergencies around the world. Trudi is also a Trustee of New Zealand for UNHCR.

Elizabeth

Elizabeth Grady

Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships

Elizabeth Grady is the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships at Australia for UNHCR. Elizabeth leads on all aspects of philanthropy within the organisation, working closely with corporates, private donors and foundations to maximise the impact their giving can have on the lives of refugees. Thanks to the wonderful support that we receive, income from private philanthropy and corporate Australia now represents over 30 per cent of funds raised to support refugees. 

Elizabeth has over 20 years’ experience working in the government, corporate and not-for-profit sectors. Elizabeth is passionate about connecting people to achieve change and to help the world’s most vulnerable.  

Prior to joining Australia for UNHCR, Elizabeth was the Development Manager at Mercy Works. She has also worked for the Australian Government in public affairs and refugee programs internationally. 

Catherine Harding

Catherine Harding

Chief Operating Officer

Catherine Harding is the Chief Operating Officer at Australia for UNHCR, providing leadership to HR, Finance, International Programs, IT and Cybersecurity, Data and Analytics, and Donor Care within the organisation.

Catherine has over 20 years’ experience working in the government, corporate and non-profit sectors across Australia. Passionate about social impact, her career has focused on social and economic policy, encompassing community development, human rights, health, justice, education and sport. She is experienced in developing organisational strategies to drive the growth and performance of organisations, and motivated by finding creative and innovative solutions to complex problems.

Prior to joining Australia for UNHCR, Catherine was a Director at KPMG and served as a non-executive director for organisations including VicHealth and Vicsport.

Australia. Nicola Norris, Director of Fundraising and Marketing
© Supplied

Nicola Norrris

Director of Fundraising and Marketing

Nicola Norris is the Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Australia for UNHCR. Nicola leads the organisation’s fundraising and marketing efforts, setting strategic direction, driving income growth, and overseeing business insights and communications. Her role encompasses exploring new fundraising opportunities and building a high-performing team responsible for digital, individual giving, regular giving, supporter experience, business insights and public affairs.

Nicola is a dynamic leader in fundraising and marketing, with a strong track record of driving revenue growth, building donor relationships, and fostering high-performing teams. She has a proven ability to develop strategic campaigns, enhance brand visibility, and engage diverse communities, consistently achieving ambitious targets.

Prior to joining Australia for UNHCR, Nicola held leadership roles that showcased her expertise in income generation, brand development, and supporter engagement across several prominent organisations.