Melanie Gray Morris appointed ADEA CEO to steer growth and momentum
- tobyvue
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
The Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Melanie Gray Morris as its new Chief Executive Officer.
With more than 20 years of senior leadership experience across the non-profit and corporate sectors, she brings extensive expertise in strategy, advocacy and organisational change.
Drawing on her experience leading diverse teams and strengthening health-focused organisations, Ms Morris is well placed to support ADEA members by championing the vital work of Credentialled Diabetes Educators (CDEs) and strengthening advocacy to improve access to high-quality diabetes education and care.
ADEA President Ann Bush announced the appointment at the 2025 Australasian Diabetes Congress (ADC) on 21 August on the Gold Coast.
"The Board is thrilled to welcome Melanie as CEO, and we are very excited about the direction and future of ADEA under her leadership," Ms Bush said.
"Melanie has a strong knowledge of ADEA and has demonstrated effective leadership during her time as Acting CEO.
"We are confident she will continue to strengthen the organisation."
Ms Morris had been serving as Acting CEO since May, and during her interim tenure she led key initiatives and reinforced the organisation's commitment to innovation and member support.
She is passionate and committed to supporting ADEA members and strengthening the diabetes education workforce, recognising the vital difference they make for people living with diabetes.
Her immediate priorities include enhancing learning opportunities for CDEs, strengthening professional standards and credentialling, and expanding advocacy to ensure the vital role of CDEs is recognised across health and policy settings.
"It is a privilege to lead ADEA during a time of tremendous opportunity. Our members are at the heart of supporting people living with diabetes, and I am honoured to champion their work and advocate on their behalf," Ms Morris said.
"Our focus is on building an organisation that is strong today and future-ready, one that embraces innovation, celebrates professional excellence, and advocates powerfully for the vital contribution of our members in diabetes education and care."
Ms Morris has held roles leading diverse teams in Washington, D.C., and Latin America, and is deeply committed to cultivating healthy teams and collaborative leadership.
Her past roles include serving as a senior leader in consulting firms based in Washington, D.C., where she advised Fortune 500 clients and managed multimillion-dollar portfolios, as well as working as a senior non-profit strategist.
She brings a global perspective and a proven ability to lead teams through complex transitions. Her qualifications include a BA magna cum laude with Honours from the University of Arizona and an MA in Political Science.
Former CEO Susan Davidson stepped down in May after a dedicated tenure that advanced the association’s vision and stability.
CONTACT
Toby Vue
Senior Policy and Communications Officer
Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA)
