Our board.

Guiding community and supporting mission.

Cana is primarily a voluntary organisation. Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds and age groups, generously giving their time and much-needed support in a range of ways to help achieve our mission.

Our Board positions are voluntary and encompass a range of skills and experience. Their role is in providing governance, and strategic direction to keep our community focused, ensuring the adequate resources are available to support mission and meeting ethical, legal and financial management responsibilities.

  • Chairman

    Ian Dardis is an accomplished executive with over 35 years of experience in financial services, government, utilities, and telecommunications. He has held senior roles, including Management Consulting Partner at Deloitte and CEO of Dentons Australia. Ian's deep commitment to social justice and his professional acumen drive the organisation’s mission, providing critical support and governance to its community-focused initiatives and fostering inclusive communities.

  • Director of Mission

    As Director of Mission, Julie Sneddon was awarded the Cath Leary Social Justice Award in 2019 for her outstanding commitment to transforming the lives of vulnerable and marginalised people. She has been key in developing initiatives like the Cana Café in Redfern and Cana Farm at Orchard Hills. Julie also established partnerships with the Parramatta Drug Court and Parklea Prison, enhancing Cana’s support for those in need, addressing poverty and restoring dignity​.

  • Committee Member

    Marlon brings over 30 years of experience in capital markets, specialising in equities sales, trading, and research. He has held senior roles at prestigious firms including Potts West Trumbull, Deutsche Bank, ABN AMRO Rothschild, RBS, and CIMB. As a valued member of Cana, Marlon leverages his extensive expertise to support the organisation’s mission and contribute to its community-focused initiatives.

  • Committee Member

    Robert has been a dedicated volunteer at Cana for over 30 years and serves as a board member, providing essential support to the organisation. Recently recognised at the Old Ignatians' Union Annual General Meeting, he actively contributes to charitable efforts, helping organisations like Cana receive vital donations. With 45 years of experience in retail, manufacturing, and wholesaling fashion brands, Robert also runs a consulting practice specialising in retail strategies for local and international brands.

  • Committee Member

    With over fifteen years in strategic planning, business development, and philanthropy, Lucy is dedicated to driving positive social change through roles in the professional services and non-profit sectors. Her work with NEXUS Global Summits and Philanthropy Australia’s Next Gen Program (mentoring young social change-makers) underscores her commitment to social entrepreneurship and impact.

  • Committee Member

    Chris brings a rich blend of financial acumen and strategic oversight to our board, underscored by his experience in investment banking and asset finance. His commitment to social justice is demonstrated through his long-standing volunteer work at our de Porres and Teresa (now St Francis) Houses.

  • Committee Member

    With over three decades of experience in the health, education, and community sectors, Carmel excels in integrating mission and identity into operations, nurturing partnerships and developing resources. Her extensive work in policy writing, volunteer management, and community engagement aligns seamlessly with our mission of building a just and inclusive society, making her a valuable addition to our team.

  • CEO

    David is an experienced senior executive in the not-for-profit sector, including leadership roles with The Smith Family, Life Education, and Street Side Medics. Before joining the NFP sector, he spent 15 years in investment banking, primarily in corporate advisory roles. Prior to assuming the CEO role in February 2024, David had been a regular Cana volunteer for some 25 years. He resigned from the Cana Board to take up the CEO position.