We profile Annie Kahulugan, Facility Manager at St Vincent’s Care Services (SVCS) in Werribee, who was awarded highly commended in the 2024 Future of Ageing Awards’ Emerging Leader of the Year category. This prestigious award recognises someone who has displayed exceptional leadership after moving into a leadership role with an aged care service provider during the last 3 years. Results were unveiled at a presentation dinner in Sydney on August 29, 2024…To view all of the winners…
Managing a team of over 120 employees, Annie’s multifaceted role encompasses compliance and quality assurance, financial management, admissions, auxiliary services, and human resources.
When Annie took on the role in 2022, the Werribee site faced significant challenges, including internal culture issues, morale issues, budgetary concerns, and resident complaints. Undeterred, Annie approached these obstacles with determination and a deep commitment to positive change.
Her first step was to rebuild trust with residents and their families. Walking the floors, she listened to their concerns, offered solutions, and became a staunch advocate for their needs, often speaking up for those without a voice. This empathetic approach quickly established Annie as a trusted figure within the community.
To improve staff engagement, Annie created an inclusive and supportive environment. She transitioned casual staff to permanent positions, prioritised flexibility in rostering, and encouraged decision-making at all levels. By setting clear expectations and fostering accountability, she empowered her team to take ownership of Werribee’s success.
“The ability to empower and value employees demonstrates strong emotional intelligence, and great leadership.”
2024 Future of Ageing Awards judge
Annie’s innovative management strategies also improved operational efficiency. Weekly reviews allowed her to streamline processes, optimise resources, and reduce costs. Her efforts increased occupancy rates, minimised reliance on agency staff, and improved budget performance, achieving a remarkable 99.9% occupancy rate against a forecast of 93.1%.
Annie’s leadership style is rooted in honesty, empathy, and collaboration. She prioritises open communication, listens to feedback, and aligns her actions with the mission and values of St Vincent’s. By fostering meaningful connections, she has transformed Werribee into a nurturing community, reducing complaints, improving staff morale, and achieving accreditation despite early challenges.
Her achievements include filling roster gaps, reducing agency usage, and creating an environment of personal care for residents through engaged staff. This transformation has led to Werribee achieving some of the highest staff survey response rates at SVCS.
Annie’s ability to balance operational excellence with compassion sets her apart as a leader. Her efforts have not only stabilised Werribee but have also laid the foundation for its continued growth and success.
Colleagues and former team members have lauded Annie’s visionary leadership and unwavering integrity. Bernadette Murphy, Annie’s manager at SVCS, commended her for her resilience and servant leadership, which have driven Werribee’s cultural transformation. Editor: A key component of the judging criteria is based on two testimonials; from both a manager of the person being nominated and someone external to the organisation who has had regular dealings with the nominee.
“Annie believes the best outcomes can be realised when everyone works together, and no-one gets left behind. She achieves this by being inclusive and building genuine and meaningful relationships.”
Sabina Dalakoti, Care Manager, Menarock Life (former team member)
Annie Kahulugan’s dedication to excellence, community, and collaboration makes her an outstanding recipient of the Emerging Leader Award, reflecting her significant contributions to the aged care sector and her bright future as a leader.
