TRACTION introduces new CEO
TRACTION Founder Sandy Murdoch and newly appointed CEO, Dr. Annabel Prescott.
TRACTION is delighted to introduce Dr. Annabel Prescott, who has commenced as our new CEO.
After nine years of leading the organisation, Founder Sandy Murdoch will transition from CEO to an active member of the Board.
“As Founder, the appointment of Annabel as our new CEO demonstrates our commitment to work within community to ensure every young person has the right to opportunities so they can realise their hopes and dreams.”
“Annabel brings significant experience and leadership in youth engagement, health and wellbeing, education and governance and will lead the strategic evolution and operational excellence of TRACTION so we keep improving how we deliver enduring, inter-generational impact for our young people and community.”
“I will continue to be active within TRACTION and am absolutely committed to helping young people realise their potential across their life learning journey.”
“My focus as Founder and an active member of the Board will be to continue working in partnership with our wonderful supporters and stakeholders to ensure TRACTION remains sustainable into the future.”
“With a focus on prevention, Annabel and I will ensure TRACTION continues to look at systems differently, work collaboratively to create opportunities for young people to remain engaged in learning and have pathways to employment.”
After an extensive recruitment search, TRACTION was delighted to appoint Dr. Prescott to the role of CEO. Before joining TRACTION, Annabel led a National Programme in Student Wellbeing at the New Zealand Drug Foundation and served as Chief Executive at Anamata Youth One Stop Shop, where she oversaw clinical youth health services and youth development opportunities.
Earlier in her career Annabel was involved in workforce development leading the first degree in youth development and health promotion, having been an integral writer in the national youth work degree framework.
“I am passionate about the work TRACTION is doing - it is innovative, responsive to young people and works in partnership with schools.”
Annabel is passionate about ensuring young people have access to support that will enable them to thrive in life and remaining in education is a key lever for this to occur.
She brings with her a deep understanding of the evidence of mentoring and the importance of educational engagement for young people and we are thrilled to have her on board at TRACTION.
