Our team

Melissa Decker

Acting Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Accountant CAANZ, B.Com Accounting

I joined Forward in 2021 initially serving as the organisations Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary.

With over 28 years’ experience as a Chartered Accountant across a wide range of sectors I’ve been responsible for overseeing operations and business activities to ensure they produce desired results consistent with the overall vision and strategy.

As a commercially focused finance professional my focus is on developing and implementing strategic plans, delivering efficient processes, and fostering an environment where our staff can thrive and truly feel like they belong. My commitment to continuous improvement is delivered through collaboration, thought leadership and innovation.

It’s inspiring to witness the profound impact our organisation has made supporting people with spinal cord injury and the wider sector and to see all the lives we continue to touch along the way. It’s an exciting time for us as we work together to extend our reach and our positive impact supported by our unified vision and sense of purpose.

When I’m not at work I love spending time with family & friends, traveling, playing sport and waterskiing.

Sarah Bowe

Director Home and Living Support, BA Psych

My name is Sarah Bowe and I am the Director of Home and Living Supports at Forward. I joined the organisation in April 2020 after working across a broad range of community, social and health organisations. In addition to my operational experience and Psychology qualifications, I bring my passion for social justice, equity and creating opportunities for people, together with my drive to contribute to my community. 

I love working at Forward because of the passionate history of grassroots advocacy that has led to meaningful improvements in support and services for people living with a spinal cord injury.

It is an organisation that prides itself on working with individuals to live their best life and supporting them where they are at in their journey to move forward. 

The team at Forward has a care factor that drives them and the passion of the team is evident every day. My role covers the support that we provide people living in the community, those that need specialised accommodation as well as those with higher care needs. Every day my team works hard to make a difference in the lives of those we support and they know that every day matters. Joining Forward and my role as a Director has been a highlight of my career to date and I look forward to many more years working with this great team. 

Shane Donaghy

ACTING CFO, MCom Accounting, MBA Accounting and businesss management

With 28 years of experience in corporate accounting roles, my focus is on driving results in line with our vision and strategy. My academic background includes an MBA and a Master of Professional Accounting.

Prior to joining FAS, I’ve been involved in various initiatives such as an actuarial review of land management trusts in Sydney, leading to the preparation of a financial investment plan. Additionally, I’ve implemented various finance ERP systems, including automated invoice processing systems.

Joining FAS in October 2022 was an exciting opportunity to contribute to a leading not-for-profit organisation, making a profound impact in supporting people with spinal cord injuries.
I’m inspired by the lives we touch daily and look forward to navigating future opportunities together.

Outside work, I cherish family time with my two kids and stay active through fitness and sports. I’m passionate about continuous learning, exploring share markets, finance, and personal growth through reading and listening to podcasts.

Rashmi Dixit-Sharma

HEAD OF PEOPLE AND CULTURE, BA PSYCH (HONS), POSTGRAD DIP HR, RTWC

My name is Rashmi Dixit Sharma. My role at Forward is the Head of People and Culture. I completed my honours in psychology, a diploma in computer programming, trained as a special educator and went on to do my post graduate qualification in Human Resources. I commenced with Forward in January 2019. 

I joined Forward because I have grown up seeing the impact of serious injury on a person’s life and on their family and loved ones. I am passionate about an equitable world where people with disabilities have equal opportunities and the ability to live an ordinary life with dignity and support. 

Forward is committed to ensuring the best life for their clients, employees and community. As someone who is responsible for people and culture, I see this first hand. Everyday, I am in awe of the work that we do, and our focus on doing what’s right, what’s good. I love working with the amazing people at forward who bring their expertise and understanding to everyday matters and make sure that we move forward every day. 

I am excited to witness Forward becoming an Employer of Choice.

Chris Pike

HEAD OF CORPORATE IT & CYBER SECURITY, MCSE, M.I.T. Leadership (ongoing)

With an extensive 25-year IT background, I possess a deep understanding of the entire segment. Continual improvement is at the core of my approach, and I’ve been actively pursuing my Masters of Information Technology Leadership to enhance my skills. Beyond work, I find passion in the outdoors, enjoying camping, dirt bikes, and advocating for Mental Health and Leadership.

The decision to join Forward was driven by my desire to contribute to an organisation with a clear purpose, where I could leverage both my technical expertise and leadership skills to drive growth and prosperity.

A significant career highlight for me was being part of the successful bid that granted the Hammon Family the rights to operate tourism operations on the Sydney Harbour Bridge—an achievement that filled me with pride and accomplishment.

Looking forward, my focus is on bringing efficiency and automation to streamline business operations, reducing administrative overhead throughout the organisation. Additionally, ensuring a stable and secure IT operating environment remains a top priority.

I am thrilled to be part of Forward’s journey, making a positive impact through innovative IT solutions and contributing to the organisation’s overall success.

Mark Yates

Director of Operations, BMgmt, Dip. Industrial Engineering

With over 25 years of experience in Operations, I hold a bachelor’s in management, a Diploma in Industrial Engineering, and expertise as a Lean practitioner. My journey has led me through diverse industries and global implementations of best practices, enhancing the customer journey and fostering a successful customer experience while building sustainable businesses. I’m passionate about cultural transformation, supporting our workforce to achieve their professional and personal goals.

Throughout my life, I’ve witnessed the impact of disability on individuals and their families, having grown up with a sibling facing such challenges. Now, as a part of BrightSky, I am driven to empower many more people across Australia. Knowing that my efforts will contribute to making them feel more empowered fills me with happiness and fulfillment each day.

Joining Forward in July 2023 has been an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful difference through BrightSky’s mission. I’m enthusiastic about supporting the team and fostering positive change.

Beyond work, I find joy in spending quality time with family, coaching soccer, and indulging in a game of golf.