FORMER Taree resident and Taree High School student, David Small, has joined Variety International in the United States, as international executive director.
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Based in the Los Angeles office, David's appointment follows a successful stint over four and a half years as the CEO of Variety in Australia, with Head Office in Sydney.
Variety is the worldwide children's charity dedicated to changing the lives of children who suffer from serious illness, are disadvantaged or have special needs, by donating towards special services and equipment.
David, the eldest son of of well-known local couple Alan and Jan Small, has been a long-term supporter of the Variety organisation and together with brother Stephen, in 1992 embarked on the iconic outback drive the Variety Bash, a well publicised annual event visiting the more remote parts of Australia.
He has been a keen supporter of Variety ever since, joining the board of Variety NSW in 2007 as treasurer.
Originally trained as a pilot, David together with brother Stephen, built a very successful electronics business in Sydney known as Audioworks.
Following the sale of Audioworks to Amber Technology, David accepted an invitation to become Variety CEO based in Sydney in 2009.
Originally founded in 1928, Variety now has 40 offices through the world.
The Australian office was opened in 1975.
Commenting this week David said: "I have had many highlights in my life, my family being the major one, however to be appointed the head of Variety International is a very great honour and I will work tirelessly to grow this worthwhile organisation that does so much to improve the lives of children all over the world."
David commented that the scale of Variety's budget would surprise many people.
"For example, across Australia alone, Variety provides more than $1.2 million each month in equipment and services to children needing help," he said.
David went on to say that parents of children with special equipment needs, can apply to their nearest Variety office and if successful, Variety will work with the child's doctor or therapist to source the correct equipment and quietly present it to the child and parents.
"To witness the very real difference that a vital piece equipment can make to a child's life is such a privilege," David said this week.