CEO – AEIOU

The establishment of AEIOU Foundation was inspired by the experiences of James and Louise Morton, after their son was diagnosed with autism.

At AEIOU Foundation for Children with Autism, there is a simple goal: to provide early intervention that enables children with autism to live their best lives. It’s how they do it that sets them apart from everybody else.

AEIOU is a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity with DGR status. Established in 2005, AEIOU delivers high-quality therapy and care for children aged 2-6.

Their family-centred program meets the Guidelines for Good Practice (Roberts & Prior 2012) and supports children with autism to develop essential life skills, independence and confidence.

AEIOU is an approved NDIS provider and actively supports families as they engage with the Scheme.

Along with providing early intervention, AEIOU is committed to research and chairs the AEIOU Research and Innovation Committee. They are a founding partner of the Griffith University Autism Centre of Excellence (ACE), and a member of the Australian Autism Alliance.

AEIOU provides strong advocacy across all levels of government to raise awareness and increase the financial support for children with autism and their families.

Client website

ACNC Profile

AEIOU Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to early intervention for children with Level 2 and Level 3 autism, is undergoing a CEO transition, Alan Smith is retiring after 16 years. The organisation has faced significant operational shifts due to external funding changes, this has led to a restructuring of its business model, including the closure of one centre and a move towards part-time and therapy-only service delivery across half of its centres.

Current Board

• Mark Algie – Chair
• Ruth Durrant
• Laila Green
• James Morton
• Marie Perry
• Angela Ferguson
• Ben Deverson
• Euan Morton
• Tracy Pickett

Executive Team

• Alan Smith – Outgoing CEO
• David Doxey – CFO
• Amber Friebe – Head of People & Culture

Organisational Structure Chart

AEIOU is pivoting to a leaner, more sustainable model focused on delivering high-quality therapy rather than expansion. Strategic initiatives include:

• Property sale and leaseback arrangements to reduce debt.
• IT partnerships to enhance operational efficiency.
• Strengthening partnerships and advocacy efforts to secure better support for children with autism.

The organisation operates in a challenging funding environment, with significant cuts to NDIS impacting service delivery. Internally, AEIOU is navigating staff reductions and morale rebuilding while externally, it must maintain strong advocacy and lobbying efforts to influence policy and funding decisions. The board remains high-functioning and consensus-driven, committed to supporting the incoming CEO through this transition.

The incoming CEO will be expected to:

• Lead strategic and reputation management, including government and NDIS engagement.
• Inspire and rebuild organisational culture and morale.
• Demonstrate strong financial acumen and collaborate closely with the CFO.
• Possess experience in the not-for-profit or similar sectors, with strong stakeholder management and fundraising capabilities.

The recruitment process includes a two-stage interview and a final presentation to the board. Remuneration ranges from $250,000–$300,000 plus superannuation, with performance incentives and professional development support available.

Position Description

• Interviews with Windsor Group – Week commencing 4th August
• Interviews with AEIOU – Week commencing 18th August
• Presentation to the Board – Late Aug/Early September

When submitting your application, ensure your application includes:

• An up-to-date resume (in Word format)
• A covering letter (in Word format) outlining your interest and expertise relevant to the role

Submit your application quoting reference number KCCERC to apply@windsor-group.com.au. For more information please contact Kym Cheatham or Dylys Bertelsen on 07 3211 0001. Your application will be acknowledged by email within one business day.

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