Lort Smith would like to announce a change in leadership as Jennifer Fleming steps down from her role as CEO. During her time with us, Jennifer played a pivotal role in leading Lort Smith through the redevelopment of our hospital in North Melbourne and the growth of our facility in Campbellfield. Jennifer’s efforts have laid a solid foundation for the future, and we are incredibly grateful for her dedication and contribution over the last three years. We wish Jennifer all the best.

As we look ahead, we are pleased to welcome Frances Mirabelli as Interim CEO. Frances brings extensive leadership experience, having served as Interim CEO for several not-for-profit organisations in the veterinary and health sectors. With her strong skills in strategy development, communication and stakeholder management, Frances will guide Lort Smith as we continue to fulfil our mission of delivering compassionate care for Melbourne’s pets and their people.

We are excited about this next chapter under Frances’s leadership and remain committed to our vision of being the most admired and respected animal hospital across Melbourne and Victoria. We have an incredible team of passionate staff, donors, and supporters ready to continue this journey and build upon Lort Smith’s legacy.

 

As Lort Smith looks to the future, Frances will help guide the organisation’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, building on Lort Smith’s long-standing commitment to keeping pets and people together. The strategy recognises the important role pets play in people’s wellbeing and the challenges faced by people experiencing financial hardship or crisis, with a continued focus on accessible veterinary care, community support and the human–animal bond.