• Meet our team that
    makes it all possible

    Our leadership team has a strong focus on the future.

    Together with the broader team, they drive growth and innovation through enhanced efficiencies, tailored strategies, and agile decision-making.

  • Meet our leadership team

    • Kate Johnson

      Chief Executive Officer
      GAICD, MOrg. Psyc, BPsych (Hons), BBus HRM

      Kate is a seasoned leader of multidisciplinary teams, adept at navigating complex, changing environments with extensive experience across both private and not-for-profit sectors.

      Her journey as a carer has deeply informed her leadership approach, driving her passion and commitment to creating supportive environments and services for people with mental illness and disability. 

      Since 2018, Kate has been a senior executive of Vertaview Group and in 2022, she become the CEO of Open Minds. Kate is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

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    • Michelle Underhill

      General Manager Integrated Mental Health QLD

      Michelle has more than 15 years of experience in the mental health sector, including senior leadership roles, health service planning, advocacy, and quality improvement.

      Michelle is passionate about early intervention, and is driven by the desire to improve the health and social outcomes of local communities.

      Michelle joined Open Minds from the Brisbane South Primary Health Network (BSPHN), where over the last eight years, she ensured the BSPHN responded effectively to emerging needs and initiatives of the region in relation to mental health, suicide prevention, drugs, and alcohol.

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    • Rik Barker

      General Manager Integrated Mental Health NSW

      With over 18 years of experience in the mental health sector, Rik has been instrumental in enhancing mental health services across the North Coast Area Health Service.

      His leadership has been pivotal in the high performance of the HASI and CLS teams across Northern New South Wales and the successful operation of the Medicare Mental Health Centre in Lismore and the newly opened Medicare Mental Health Centre in Coffs Harbour.

      Rik’s commitment to improving mental health outcomes is evident through his collaborative approach, working closely with Local Health Districts, Aboriginal Medical Services, and community-based mental health services. His dedication to providing accessible, quality mental health support has significantly impacted the wellbeing of communities on the Mid North Coast. Under Rik’s guidance, Open Minds continues to deliver tailored mental health services that meet the unique needs of individuals, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need, when they need it.

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    • Amanda Skinner

      General Manager Service Delivery

      Amanda is a passionate, self-driven, and adaptable professional with extensive experience in the Community Service sector.

      With a strong commitment to psychosocial disability, Amanda excels in leading teams to support clients in achieving their best lives. Known for her dedication and leadership, Amanda has successfully managed diverse teams, always striving to make a positive impact in the community.

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