Today we are delighted to announce that Chris Cottier will join Creating Communities as CEO from 1 July 2026.
This transition has been five years in the making: carefully planned, deeply considered, and designed to take everything we have built and grow it further. Our team, our values, our approaches and our commitment to our clients and the communities we serve, all continue. We are gaining further leadership strength to support our exceptional leads and broader team.
Chris brings extensive experience across government, corporate Australia and community. This includes being Director General of Indigenous Affairs for the WA Government and Manager of Communities at BHP, where he led community development, engagement and social value work across WA and SA. We have worked with Chris as a client for many years. We know his values, his character and his genuine heart for community. He is exactly the right person for this moment in Creating Communities’ story.
Donna Shepherd and Allan Tranter will remain actively involved in projects, available where needed and continuing to have a senior presence in the business.
As we move into our 35th anniversary year, CCA is in a strong position to meet the growing demand for high-integrity community engagement, research, social planning, social value strategy and communications. Deeper impact. Stronger partnerships. An organisation built to thrive.
To the communities who share their stories with us, and to the clients and partners who back our work – thank you. There is a lot to look forward to.
Welcome, Chris.
