In May, CEO Alan Smith reached his 10-year milestone with AEIOU Foundation, which was marked with a surprise celebration attended by staff, family and friends at AEIOU’s Central Office.
Looking back to 2009, the service operated four centres and employed around 60 staff. In the time since then, Alan has steered the growth of the organisation with extraordinary vision. Today, AEIOU operates its service from 10 centres (with expansion plans underway) and employs a team of 360 personnel.
AEIOU Founding Director and Patron James Morton AM credited the evolution through Alan’s ability to empower a team.
“I think we can say AEIOU is Alan and Alan is AEIOU because they’re such a big part of each other,” he said.
James also referenced the unique personal relationship the pair had, with Alan becoming a patient of James’ during his treatment for leukaemia in 2015.
“He’s come out of it like this invincible machine and more determined than ever before.”
AEIOU Chair Susan Rix AM was also earnest in her praise for Alan’s commitment to the organisation.
“10 years is a milestone and we really appreciate the good work you’ve done for this organisation,” she said.
However, always humble, Alan was quick to turn the attention back to the team effort.
“It’s the team that makes AEIOU achieve the success we do,” he said.
“It’s been a lovely journey… it has gone in a heartbeat for me. I look forward to the years ahead.”
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