Denison Grellmann has been appointed as the new CEO for the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Australia.
Mr Grellmann will replace outgoing CEO Paul Rubessa, who announced in April that he had accepted the position of Investment and Financial Services manager with the South Pacific Division.
With a 21-year history of working for ADRA across the globe, Mr Grellmann is returning to ADRA Australia. He has also worked for ADRA in Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Mozambique, Laos, Philippines, New Zealand and ADRA International. Mr Grellmann is currently the CEO at ADRA New Zealand where he has served for the past four years.
“Journeying with ADRA in different places and roles has been a privilege,” said Mr Grellmann. “This adventure began as an intern, then in project and program management, moving to managerial and leadership roles. In every step of this journey, I’ve encountered amazing and dedicated ADRA team members who have been wonderful to serve with.”
Despite working across the globe, Australia has become home for Mr Grellmann, his wife Priscila and their two children, who are excited to return.
“I feel privileged to join the ADRA Australia team and be part of a talented group of professionals who have a heart for service to humanity,” said Mr Grellmann. “I hope to contribute to the excellent work that my predecessors have done and together with the team strengthen ADRA’s engagement with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, with committed supporters and donors, and with ADRA’s committed implementing partners in Australia and overseas.”
Mr Rubessa is confident in Mr Grellmann’s ability to lead the ADRA Australia team.
“Denison brings rich experience to ADRA Australia and, when combined with our amazing and committed team, I am excited about how effectively ADRA Australia can help others live as God intended,” said Mr Rubessa.
Due to the impact of COVID-19 on international travel, Mr Grellmann’s start at ADRA Australia is planned for September 10.
