Scope: A representative body providing key services for 67,000 students had long lacked effective oversight + corporate governance.

Without strategic direction, it was not engaging with or understanding the needs of its members. It was struggling to meet the challenges of enormous change and disruption in the sector.

It faced a leadership vacuum and financial distress which was heightened by COVID-19 lockdowns.

Methodology: Canvass was brought in on an interim basis, managing a $31m annual budget with eight direct reports, 300 staff, volunteers and a significant property portfolio.

As the COVID crisis deepened, Canvass conducted an Organisational Review to provide visibility on problems and priorities and devise urgent solutions.

Canvass then worked closely with sector institutions and stakeholders on a range of critical ongoing issues, developing a plan to reengage with members and stakeholders in the ongoing COVID context and beyond.

Driving Change: Canvass steered the organisation through the challenges of COVID, ensuring its survival through member retention and stakeholder engagement.

The results of the Organisational Review provided much needed transparency and direction. It informed Canvass’ work in responding quickly to the COVID crisis, stemming financial losses and managing safety and staffing issues. It provided the transparent messaging to protect the safety and wellbeing of students and stakeholders during COVID.

The Review also provided a clear strategic roadmap, aligning the organisation with the interests of members and key stakeholders to ensure a sustainable future.