Management

Our Executive Managers take great pride in implementing the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors which guides organisational priorities and decision-making.

Executive Managers are responsible for day to day management requirements and ensure the Vision and Mission of Clayton Church Homes is continually fulfilled across the organisation.

Michael Elias

Michael Elias is an experienced Chief Executive and senior leader in the aged care, and not-for-profit sector. Guided by a deep belief in the dignity, voice, and potential of every individual, Michael has devoted his career to shaping environments where people can age with meaning, connection, and joy. Michael was drawn to lead CCH because of its strong sense of community and its enduring commitment to positive ageing and to person-centred care. He saw in CCH not just an organisation, but a community with heart — one that shares his belief that quality of life is defined by relationships, respect, and belonging. Over more than 20 years in executive leadership across health, community, and aged care services, Michael has championed cultures of compassion, accountability, and continuous learning. His approach is grounded in humility and collaboration, inspiring teams to see their work as more than care — as the opportunity to make a genuine difference in people’s lives.

Leah Watkins

Leah is a compassionate and experienced Registered Nurse with 30 years of experience in the aged care and nursing sectors. Throughout her career, she has worked in a variety of roles, including Registered Nurse, Quality and WHS Coordinator, Residential Services Manager, and Head of Residential Services. She has also been involved in commissioning a new residential care facility. Leah holds a Bachelor’s and Master's degree in nursing, as well as a Diploma of Business – Frontline Management. She has a genuine passion for quality improvement, supporting teams, and developing new projects that enhance residents’ wellbeing. She takes pride in fostering positive workplace cultures and helping services deliver the highest standards of care.

Georgia Struwig

Georgia is a Registered Nurse with post graduate qualifications in Dementia, Infection Control and leadership, she has also completed a Masters In Healthcare Leadership and constantly pursues opportunities for further study. Georgia has focussed her career on working with older people, with a background in Clinical Leadership, Senior Quality and Clinical Governance Management and Senior Operations Management in Residential and community aged care. Georgia’s passion lies in supporting and leading teams to provide high quality, innovative and person-directed care to clients in the community that helps them to stay safe and live well at home.

Caroline Edmonds

Caroline Edmonds is the Executive Manager of Retirement Living & Property at Clayton Church Homes, with over 30 years of professional experience in the aged care, retirement living, and education sectors. Beginning her career as an accountant, Caroline discovered her passion for purpose-driven work within the not-for-profit sector. She now oversees 12 independent living sites and provides strategic property and facilities management support across five residential aged care homes. Known for her strong commercial acumen and commitment to resident and community wellbeing, Caroline is dedicated to fostering a positive, high-performing workplace culture. A former board member of two independent schools, she continues to apply her governance and leadership expertise to support organisations delivering excellence in care, service, and community outcomes.

Brittney Bakaj

Brittney Bakaj

Phil Hiew

Phil Hiew, a member of CPA Australia and a Graduate of Australia Institute of Company Directors brings over a decade of experience in the aged care and disability sectors. Throughout his career, Phil has held prominent positions on various industry-related committees. He is dedicated leader who is deeply committed to the development, motivation, and retention of high-performing teams whilst fostering a respectful and collaborative nature between internal and external stakeholders. Phil is a staunch advocate of systems-based processes and person-centred services, ensuring that these principles are at the forefront of everything he does. With a proven track record of delivering major IT and infrastructure projects, Phil consistently seeks innovative ways to provide top-tier services that are both high in quality and financially sustainable.

Daniel Desteno

Daniel Desteno is a results-focused and qualified business leader with over 20 years in senior management and executive experience in the aged care and education sector. As Head of Commercial Services at CCH, he has a focus on leading transformational projects, implementing robust frameworks and governance structures, and fostering an integrated performance culture. Daniel is known for his balanced approach to commercial sustainability and service excellence, consistently delivering outcomes that enhance the wellbeing of older Australians across the broader CCH community.

Stephanie Jenkins

Stephanie Jenkins

“I can travel without worrying about a thing and everyone gets along. It’s the best move I’ve ever made.”

Pauline

“CCH staff show us respect, tolerance, care and friendship.”

Elizabeth

“I love the Cafeteria where we can enjoy a good cappuccino while chatting with other residents. We meet every Friday for Happy Hour when we share news over a drink, have a few jokes and celebrate birthdays”

Clinton

“I am delighted to be here and am always busy with new found friends and activities.”

Jean

“I live in a Retirement Living unit and enjoy my garden, especially at the back where I have some raised beds where I grow lettuce, spinach, rocket and herbs that I pick for my meals everyday.”

Geoff

“The staff are very caring. I feel loved and I feel the warmth of everyone I come across.”

Mary

“I like the friendships with others, and the care I receive from staff. I feel happy and content and that makes my family happy.”

Audrey

“I love my apartment. It’s light, airy and very contemporary.”

Eva

“It’s very liberating to know that maintenance is taken care of.”

Joan

“I feel respected, safe, cared for and listened to.”

Joyce

“We love living near like-minded people. We treat each other as friends and valued neighbours.”

Don and Margaret

“I enjoy the village atmosphere, we are a close-knit community.”

Phil