Executive team

The Accord Executive Team are a passionate and vibrant group of people with decades of experience. They all bring something special and different to their roles in leading St John of God Accord. St John of God Accord executive committee

Rebecca Cattermole - Chief Executive OfficerRebecca Cattermole, CEO St John of God Accord

“Positive energy fuels progress. Together we’ll empower individuals, advocate for change, and build a more inclusive community.”

Rebecca Cattermole has been our CEO since August 2023. Rebecca has 17 years’ experience in disability and community services, specialising in services for individuals with complex support needs, and facilitating large scale growth projects. With a Masters of Health Services Management and a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, Rebecca is positive and energetic leader and a fierce advocate for client inclusion which is at the heart of everything she does. When she’s not at work, she can be found in the local gym teaching spin classes, spending time with friends, at home making sourdough bread, or creating art with pencils and charcoal.

Ben Spooner - Chief Operating OfficerBen Spooner, Chief Operating Officer, St John of God Accord

“My focus is to lead the way in compassionate and innovative supports, and bring hope and new opportunities in the work we do.”

Ben Spooner joined us as COO in 2024. Ben has led large and diverse teams across disability sector. Ben has extensive experience in Supported Independent Living service design, change management, client outcomes framework and strategic growth. In his free time, he enjoys looking after his garden, playing tennis and spending time with his three kids, and also finds time to support his community through his Board appointments.

Silvana Gugliandolo - Director of Corporate ServicesSilvana Gugliandolo, Director of Corporate Services

“Leading with the head and the heart, passionate about social justice issues and focused on supporting people to live the lives they want through choice, opportunity and experiences."

Silvana has more than 35 years’ experience in the disability sector and has worked in all service delivery areas of St John of God Accord. Silvana was a part of the de-institutionalisation process, which saw people with disabilities being recognised as valued members of the community. This was a deep foundational experience which has driven Silvana’s passion for client rights and inclusion. Silvana is now applying this extensive knowledge and experience in service delivery to our corporate services, ensuring they suit the needs of our Caregivers so they can focus on the people we support.

Silvana’s passions are her family, travelling, books and enjoying long dinners with friends.

Neal Murphy - Director of Mission IntegrationNeal Murphy, Director of Mission Integration

“If we can do our work with heart, our capacity to bring change is significantly increased.”

Neal has had leadership roles throughout St John of God Accord for over 20 years, from day programs to social outreach services to advocacy. Most importantly, Neal’s passion for social justice drives everything he does to make sure St John of God Accord delivers services with heart and values. Neal holds undergraduate studies in Systematic Theology, a Master’s in social sciences majoring in Pastoral Counselling, a Master’s in Business Administration and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. On the weekends Neal can be found belting out a tune with the Melbourne Welsh Male Choir or spending time with his wife and children.