Meet the Senior Management Team - Hobart City Mission

Harvey Lennon

CEO

Harvey joined Hobart City Mission in October 2021, with a wealth of leadership experience.

Harvey has 20 years in executive roles at the Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania (RACT), including nine years as the Group Chief Executive. In 2019 Mr. Lennon was appointed as Senior Advisor to the Minister for Finance, the Honourable Michael Ferguson MP, where his role included supporting the Government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Harvey also has experience in the not-for-profit sector, having been on the Board of Colony 47 (2004-2016 including 3 years as Chair) and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra (2017-present).

Bob Walker

Senior Manager, Family, Housing & Community Services

Bob joined Hobart City Mission in 2015, where he worked in Integrated Family Support Services. He successfully implemented the DIY Dads program before stepping into the role of Family, Housing and Community Services Manager in 2019.

Bob has a Diploma of Community Services and Youth Work, and previously worked at Good Beginnings as Site Coordinator for 6 years.

Michelle Folder

Senior Manager, Communications & Fundraising

Michelle joined Hobart City Mission in 2011 having worked in the community services sector for many years. Michelle is passionate about community and the power this has to support all within it. She demonstrates this passion through her work at Hobart City Mission but also through her volunteering work including as past President of the Cottage School and board member of the The Story Island Project.

Michelle is a Director of the Fundraising Institute of Australia (FIA) Board and a member of the FIA State Committee for Tasmania. Michelle has an honors degree in psychology.

Jane Thiessen

Senior Manager, People & Culture

Jane joined Hobart City Mission in early 2021 at a time of great growth for Hobart City Mission. The organisation recognised the need for a new business unit dedicated to the engagement of staff and volunteers. The People & Culture Business Unit was created to manage both staff and volunteers, with Jane leading the newly formed team.

Jane has extensive experience in the People & Culture space, most recently overseeing the business partnering relationship at RACT. Prior to RACT, Jane spent 7 years working in the corporate training environment and started her career with 17 years at Federal Hotels. Jane is passionate about employee engagement, recruitment and career progression.

James Roach

Senior Manager, Disability & Business Services

James joined Hobart City Mission in April 2019, having worked previously as Business Manager of a law firm. James also has experience as an auditor. James has a Bachelor of Business from the University of Tasmania.

Taryn Townsend

Senior Manager, Charity Retail

Taryn joined Hobart City Mission in September 2023. Having previously worked in the local government sector for more than 20 years, she specialises in strategic development and planning, customer experience strategies and is proficient in all facets of financial management including analysis, forecasting and developing new revenue streams.

Taryn is passionate about the circular economy and promoting the importance of second-hand quality items.