Meet Vanessa Santa, Executive Officer

If you’ve spent any time at Rocky Bay, there’s a good chance you’ve felt the quiet ripple effect of someone working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly, calmly, and with a whole lot of heart. That someone is Vanessa Santa.

Some of you might remember Vanessa’s friendly smile from her time working on reception at Ascot, where her Rocky Bay career first began. For those that know her, you’ll understand how Vanessa epitomises the warmth and spirit that Rocky Bay is known for. But if you haven’t yet crossed paths, here is a little about our wonderful Executive Officer, Vanessa.

From the front desk to the executive office

Vanessa joined Rocky Bay in 2017, stepping into the role of receptionist for the newly opened Ascot Hub. It was her first time working in the disability sector, but from day one, she felt something click.

“It was an exciting time to come on board,” said Vanessa. “Being part of a brand‑new site, setting it up and welcoming people through the doors every day gave me a real appreciation for the heart of the organisation from day one.”

What stood out for Vanessa in the early days was the team she was surrounded by. “It truly felt like a family,” reflects Vanessa. “We worked hard, supported each other, and had a lot of fun along the way.”

She has fond memories of the customers and can remember them clearly. “They were incredibly special to me,” said Vanessa. “Every interaction with them was a highlight. Those connections are something I still carry with me.”

Climbing steps, wearing many hats, learning everything!

For over nearly a decade, Vanessa has taken on three very different roles, each one shaping her professionally and personally.

During the three and a half years in reception at Ascot, she learned the importance of providing high quality support, adaptability and organisation. She was then seconded into the role of Office Manager, where for a couple of years she managed a “wonderful team” spread across all Rocky Bay sites. She learned to adapt quickly through the challenges of COVID, upskilling and solving challenges on the fly. “It was a demanding and uncertain time,” remembers Vanessa, “but also incredibly interesting and full of valuable learnings.”

For the past three and a half years, Vanessa has been working in her current role as Executive Assistant, where she said she could bring everything she’d learned together – along with some interesting new skills such us stakeholder engagement, effective communication and governance.

“The opportunity to step into the Executive Assistant role was a real turning point,” said Vanessa. “I couldn’t say no, even though I was absolutely terrified at the time. It’s been an incredible opportunity for personal growth, and I’m genuinely grateful for Michael and the leadership team’s trust that I could do the job, and for their patience while I learned, grew, and found my feet.”

So… What does an Executive Officer do?

Vanessa’s primary role is supporting Chief Executive Officer Michael Tait, the Leadership Team, and all things Board‑related. She’s also a central point of contact for departments needing guidance or information – essentially being the calm middle of a very busy wheel.

Some days are structured. Others? Not so much.

“Some days are highly structured,” said Vanessa. “Others require quick responses, juggling priorities, and keeping everything moving calmly behind the scenes. No two days are the same, but the focus is always on ensuring people feel supported, informed, and that everything is ready on time, helping make their days more efficient.”

In other words: Vanessa helps the right things happen, at the right time, for the right people – quietly and humbly making the whole organisation more efficient.

Highlights of her role

For Vanessa, working closely with leaders has been one of the most rewarding parts of her role.

“I really value the broadening of thinking that comes with working closely with leaders,” said Vanessa, “their professionalism, the responsibility they carry, and the long hours they put into ensuring the organisation is the best it can be for our staff and customers. Being their support, and helping make their days a little easier, is something I take a lot of pride in.”

And her proudest moment at Rocky Bay?

For Vanessa, every day at Rocky Bay makes her proud!

“Honestly, every day I feel like I made the right decision and feel proud to work at Rocky Bay,” said Vanessa. “I’m proud of the teams I’ve worked with, both past and present, and every customer story reinforces that this is the best place to be. Those stories are a constant reminder of why the work we do matters.”

The secret to a great working relationship

For Vanessa, the recipe to a great working relationship is simple, and effective:

“Trust, clear communication, mutual respect, and a bit of fun!”

Her approach is simply being herself. “I’m positive, approachable, and kind by nature,” said Vanessa. “I try to lead with warmth, a smile, and genuine care. I truly believe how people feel at work matters, and there’s always time for a hug when someone needs it. And believe me, everyone does at some point. I’ve been told I’m a pretty great hugger – office visits welcome if you need one!”

Now add ‘Rocky Bay’s Official Hugger’ to the list of Vanessa’s many roles!

To round it off we asked Vanessa what her perfect reset would be after a busy week at Rocky Bay:

“A few days surrounded by trees – somewhere far, far away, with zero internet…with my family, a good book and Colombian coffee of course. Non‑negotiable!”

Sounds perfect! Thank you, Vanessa, for talking the time to share a bit about yourself and your integral role behind the scenes of Rocky Bay.