Executive Team

Dr Tim McDonald - Chief Executive Officer

In 2021, Tim joined the Y, where he continues to channel his expertise and passion towards empowering and inspiring young people, believing that their success is at the core of thriving communities. His passion lies in ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their potential through evidence-based practices and policies.

Tim is a strategic leader and innovator with 20+ years of experience in education and the philanthropic sector. He has played a key role in improving education systems, focusing on enhancing teacher practices to boost student outcomes. His extensive work includes managing large-scale projects in areas like leadership, student engagement, well-being, and innovation in education, and employment.

Tim is leading the Y WA’s Growth for Impact Strategy, which centres on reinstating the core values of body, mind, and spirit, originally articulated by Dr. Luther Gulick's 1891, as the essence of the Y’s mission. The focus is on reinvigorating these core principles in every facet of the organization's activities, including Children Services, Youth, Community & Leisure and Education. The objective is twofold: to expand the Y WA's reach and influence while ensuring a significant and meaningful impact on the lives of young people and the wider community. This approach is deeply rooted in the Y's historical mission established in 1844, dedicated to holistic well-being and development.

As a lifelong learner and a leader who aims to inspire and empower others, Tim believes in the importance of continuous improvement and curiosity cultivation. His personal pride is his children, who teach him about respect, learning, love, and forgiveness.

Diana Versace - Chief Financial Officer

Diana came to the Y in 2011, having previously held a number of finance-related senior executive positions. She has a remarkable depth of professional experience, including business and finance management, analysis, compliance, forecasting, broking and business improvement.

As well as very sound financial capabilities, Diana brings dynamic strategic and leadership skills. Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Business Degree and professional memberships to CPA Australia and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

The Y’s work with young people and regional communities inspires Diana in her work. She gets immense satisfaction bringing her financial and business acumen to an organisation that focusses on the long term wellbeing of Western Australians.

Her love of being around people has seen her volunteer with WA charities and events over many years. She has held various Board membership with her latest being Board Member/Treasurer of the WA Amateur Football League inspired by her love of footy. Diana also has a secret desire to be a snake handler, after being captivated by her first “safe” snake encounter a decade ago.

Grant Yonge - Executive Manager Organisational Impact

Grant joined  the Y in 2016 with 15 years leadership experience with some of WA's leading brands in the Not for Profit, Commercial and Government sectors.

Grant's unique background and cross over skills in Customer Service, Process Improvement,  Strategy and Governance, along with his passion for connecting people and their work to strategic outcomes guide his effort at the Y. 

Grant leads our Impact and Data Analytics strategies.  His critical thinking ensures our work and our efforts are deeply connected to the Y's DNA and his passion for connecting people and outcomes through exceptional experience ensures our staff are equally able to flourish.

Outside of work, you'll find Grant on stage fronting a rock band, camping on the Ningaloo coast with family, or water skiing on the Swan River.

Allison Ross - Executive Manager People and Culture

Allison brings with her a wealth of knowledge and extensive experience with her most recent role being the Director People & Culture at the Lion’s Eye Institute. She has also held senior leadership roles in HR at Bethanie, the University of Western Australia, and BT Financial Group.

As a strategic leader, qualified human resources practitioner and change manager, with experience gained in commercial and not-for-profit organisations, Allison will guide us through our strategic journey to make The Y an even better place to work. Allison’s background and capabilities make her well suited to this strategic role.

Originally from the UK, Allison and her family have called Australia home for the last 22 years. Outside of work Allison enjoys walking, running (slowly), hiking and reading - and as a family they love to travel. Allison loves to work with teams and leaders to create environments where people can thrive, grow, and do their best each day. “I’m really excited to join the Y and contribute to the growth of the organisation and its people - and to deliver some really fun stuff!” said Allison.

Anjie Brook - Executive Manager Education, Youth and Leisure 

Anjie is an accomplished leader in education and the 'for-purpose' sector with a deep commitment to supporting all members of our community to be their best, to take opportunities presented to them and lead with courage. Anjie has dedicated her career in the Western Australian education sector to supporting students who found traditional school challenging.

Alongside this she is accomplished in research, development and facilitation of professional learning programs. With extensive experience in government and for purpose organisations facilitating leadership development, strategic planning, individual and team coaching and mentoring. Over recent years Anjie has undertaken research, development and facilitation of culturally grounded and embedded leadership programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Anjie is proud to have been the inaugural CEO of the Western Australian Aboriginal Leadership Institute - inspiring and supporting Aboriginal people to take up leadership opportunities to strengthen their families and communities.

Anjie's commitment to the for-purpose sector reflects her strong sense of social responsibility to making this world a better place for all, recognising the opportunity for growth when working in truly inclusive spaces where diversity is celebrated. Most recently Anjie was the WA General Manager at The Smith Family - supporting disadvantaged Australian children to get the most out of their education so they can create better futures for themselves.