ECH brings in a fresh face to lead home care services

South Australia’s largest retirement living and ageing services provider, ECH, has brought in industry outsider Darryl Cotter as its new Head of Home & Community.

Mr Cotter takes up a key role in their executive team where he will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic plans that ensure the delivery of high-quality care and regulatory compliance across the provider’s in-home support, nursing and home care, allied health and respite care services.

The local South Australian’s career history showcases a wealth of experience in diverse industries, although this is his first foray into aged care. 

Most recently, he was the Chief Operating Officer of SILK Laser Australia, while other roles include General Manager of OTR – the State’s largest petrol station/convenience store operator – and state and national management positions across Target Australia, Spotlight and Coles Group. 

He was also recognised by InDaily’s 40 Under 40 in 2019 as one of the State’s top young business people. 

There is plenty of excitement over the move into retirement living and aged care, with Mr Cotter focused on the positive impact he can have through the new role. 

“My initial focus will be spending time with our home and community teams by visiting our sites, meeting our frontline personnel and learning about those who are the heart of the organisation,” he said.

“With more than 100 retirement villages across the state and such a wide range of services available, our home and community teams are well positioned to support the wellbeing and independence of older South Australians and have a positive impact on their lives.”

ECH Chief Executive Officer Claire Scapinello welcomed their new Head of Home & Community as the for-purpose provider readies to transition to the Federal Government’s new home care program Support At Home.

“Darryl has extensive consumer-focused experience in developing operational excellence and business improvement, building teams, and engaging and fostering a culture of innovation,” she said.

“His expertise will complement the excellent clinical capabilities within our broader care team and enhance our ability to deliver exemplary service for our customers.”

Mr Cotter replaces the retiring Sally Sobels who departs ECH after more than eight years of service. 

“We also wish a very happy and fulfilling retirement to Sally and thank her for her invaluable contributions that have supported and improved the lives of our customers over the past eight years,” Ms Scapinello added.