Susan Henry

"Hi, I’m Susan and I joined Starlight in 2001! I’m really proud to work at Starlight. It’s an amazing organisation doing wonderful work that makes a difference.

My Starlight story began with being tasked to build the HR function. It started as a six month contract for two days a week. Back then there were 78 employees, including just 12 Captain Starlights, and Starlight was growing really quickly.

After 18 months in the job, I knew I’d need more time! What started as a part-time contract became a permanent, full time role.

Much of my early work was around Starlight’s core program: Captain Starlight. This involved further defining the character, what skills and attributes were needed and how to ensure Captain Starlight retained the energy needed to perform the role.

Starlight is a strong, culturally cohesive organisation and I can honestly say that everyone in the Starlight team is proud to be a part of it.

I’ve seen Starlight grow and our team now boasts 265 people, which includes 100 Captain Starlights. We also have 1800 volunteers right across Australia. We get to work with highly talented people, both internally and externally, as there are so many people who generously give their expertise.

I’m passionate about all aspects of organisational culture and the impact positive people strategies have on business results. It’s wonderful working in an organisation where I can use my skills to make a difference to so many people.

I love accompanying Captain Starlight on ward rounds. There’s a really special moment when sad parents and children suddenly start laughing hysterically – seeing that is the best! It always reminds me how important and impactful our work is.

At Starlight we really get to see people’s generosity. We witness the best of humanity."