Celebrating Caroline Watt

On Thursday 9 April, residents, colleagues and former leaders gathered to celebrate the long and successful tenure of outgoing CEO Caroline Watt. In true Nulsen style, guests came together at our Cannington office to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and enjoy a generous morning tea.

The celebration opened with a moving welcome through music, performed by accomplished artist Greg Barr on the didgeridoo. Nulsen Chairperson Bernadette Celliers then delivered a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on Caroline’s remarkable contribution to Nulsen across more than 27 years of service.

Caroline’s journey with Nulsen began in the late 1990s, when she was Executive Coordinator of the Gosnells Armadale Community Living Association (GACLA), later known as Mosaic Community Care. At that time, GACLA partnered with Nulsen Haven’s Independent Administration division – a relationship that soon led Caroline to join Nulsen during a period of significant growth and change.

From her very first day in January 1999, Caroline made an immediate impression. Known for her energy, decisiveness and practicality, she quickly earned a reputation as an “action woman” who could turn ambitious ideas into reality – and make the seemingly impossible possible.

That drive, determination and sharp strategic mind was honed over the next 27 years, seeing Caroline excel in several senior roles before being appointed Executive Director, and later, in June 2022, Chief Executive Officer.

Ms Celliers described Caroline’s progression through the organisation as deeply deserved and recognition of her exceptional character.

“Caroline’s achievements reflect not only her strengths as a confident and strategic leader, but who she is as a person,” Ms Celliers said. “I think it’s fair to say she is the epitome of respect, kindness and generosity, who always puts other first.”

Ms Celliers also shared Caroline’s own reflections, recorded during the development of The Nulsen Story book:

“The opening of the new homes, when I joined Nulsen, was a joy. At every level, whether in writing or in conversation, residents were treated with respect and firmly placed at the centre of all decisions. I felt incredibly proud to be involved.”

This early experience – along with mentorship from former CEO Gordon Trewern – helped shape Caroline’s unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of Nulsen residents throughout her career.

While the journey has been long and rewarding, it has not been without challenges. When the NDIA assumed responsibility for NDIS delivery in Western Australia in July 2018, Caroline guided Nulsen through a period of profound change with courage, resilience and an openness to adapt.

Some of the necessary decisions during that time were difficult and had an impact on morale and culture. Recognising this, Caroline initiated the CAN Do Program – a three-year cultural renewal grounded in change management theory – which became a pivotal turning point for Nulsen.

Caroline’s positive impact on Nulsen is immeasurable, and she will be greatly missed.

Her decision to step back from the role to spend more time with her family is both brave and deeply respected. While she will take on a new part-time role with PeopleKind later this year, her departure marks the end of an era for Nulsen’s residents, families and employees alike.

On behalf of the entire Nulsen family – thank you, Caroline.