Our Executive Leadership Team is responsible for implementing the strategy set by the Board. The Team ensures that performance goals are met and that our work and programs are undertaken efficiently, effectively and sustainably.
Nicky Long joined Guide Dogs Victoria as CEO in April 2023 with an impressive track record in the disability and non-profit sectors. She brings experience and drive to lead Guide Dogs Victoria into the future, combined with a deep passion and commitment to empower people living with a disability.
Prior to commencing with Guide Dogs Victoria, Nicky was CEO of Expression Australia, and held roles in the healthcare, pharmaceutical and not for profit sectors – including Inaugural CEO of Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision and board positions with The Royal Women’s Hospital Foundation, The Snowdome Foundation, St Kilda Football Club Foundation and Soap Aid.
Nicky is a current Board Member of and Independent Non-Executive Director of the Priceline Sisterhood Foundation and the Norman Beischer Research Foundation.
Nicky is a member of ‘Mentor Walks Australia’, and a member of the mentor program at St Kilda Football Club for AFLW players. She was a finalist in the 2020 Telstra Business Women’s Awards for Victoria – for purpose and social enterprise.
Nicky has a degree in Nursing, a Graduate Diploma in Marketing and a Masters of Business in Innovation and Leadership.
Mike van Dyk joined Guide Dogs Victoria in January 2025, bringing extensive experience across not-for-profit, professional services, financial services, and local government sectors.
An accomplished leader in business transformation and operational excellence, Mike has a proven track record of driving organisational change, improving service delivery, and enhancing financial performance.
Mike has held leadership roles across Operations and Finance, Business Transformation and People and Culture, positioning him as a well-rounded executive capable of delivering sustainable improvements in different environments.
He holds a degree in Management from the University of London, Graduate Certificates in Applied Business and Organisational Coaching, and a Master of Business Administration from Swinburne University of Technology.
“This opportunity to join Guide Dogs Victoria has allowed me to return to work within a ‘for-purpose’ organisation that improves the lives of people through social connection, health and learning.”
Originating from Perth, Liz is an adaptable, experienced, and inclusive operations professional. Her vast experience spans across many sectors including finance, crisis support and suicide prevention, technology, medical devices, and more recently, the evolution of the medical cannabis industry in Victoria.
With dogs aplenty at the Kew Campus, Liz enjoys the added pleasure of the cozy company of her two beautiful Burmese cats at home.
Evan embarked on his journey with Guide Dogs in 2016, bringing a wealth of expertise in fundraising and marketing gathered from his tenure in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. With senior positions across the airline, travel & tourism, health, and disability sectors under his belt, Evan’s impact resonates internationally.
Holding a Master of Commerce in Marketing Management from the University of Pretoria, Evan is also a Member of the Fundraising Institute of Australia. His dedication to advancing Guide Dogs’ mission knows no bounds as he continues to drive transformative initiatives and foster lasting partnerships.”
Kristy Richards joined Guide Dogs Victoria in March 2025, bringing over 20 years of experience in brand strategy, marketing, and communications across the health, community services, government, and education sectors. Her background includes senior roles at Vision Australia, leading strategy consultancies and advertising agencies, where she delivered award-winning campaigns and audience-first strategies that created both social impact and commercial value.
With deep expertise in brand architecture, audience engagement, and data-informed storytelling, Kristy brings an innovative and inclusive approach to communication. Her blend of agency and client-side experience gives her a unique ability to unify strategy and creativity, driving effective, emotionally resonant campaigns that build trust and connection.
As General Manager, Marketing and Communications, Kristy leads a team dedicated to amplifying Guide Dogs Victoria’s mission. She is passionate about helping more people access life-changing services through stronger storytelling, modern marketing technologies, and an unwavering focus on community needs.
