The NLC announces new CEO

Mr. Deen joins NLC following his tenure as CEO of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC).

As a descendant of the Wuthathi peoples with connections to the Gunggandji and Torres Strait Islands, he brings extensive insight to the NLC, as well as experience in local government and Aboriginal governance.

Over the past 25 years, Mr. Deen has supported First Nations People to secure and protect rights, land, culture and heritage as well as natural resource management and community development. In addition to his leadership across the NSW Land Rights network, he has worked with the North Queensland Land Council, the Indigenous Land Corporation, Lumbu Indigenous Community Foundation and the Western Cape Communities Trust.

Mr. Deen’s commitment to social justice, cultural respect, and community engagement aligns with the core values of the NLC: respect, integrity, and empowerment.

As the CEO, Mr. Deen will focus on implementing the strategic objectives of the NLC, ensuring that Aboriginal people can acquire and manage their lands to their greatest benefit. He aims to foster an environment where the voices of our constituents are heard and their rights are upheld.

The NLC extends its gratitude to Mrs. Jessie Schaecken for her outstanding leadership and dedication during her seven months as Interim CEO. Throughout this period, Mrs. Schaecken has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the NLC, effectively guiding the organisation through challenges and opportunities. Her collaborative approach and success strengthening governance has laid a solid foundation for Mr. Deen.

Quotes attributable to Mr. Matthew Ryan, Chair of the NLC:

• “On behalf of the NLC, I am happy to announce that Yuseph Deen will be our new CEO. Mr Deen has a lot of experience in Indigenous affairs. He is committed to our communities, and his proven leadership skills make him the right person to lead the NLC into the future.”

• “Our Executive Council, together with a recruitment agency, began the search for a new CEO earlier this year. I want to acknowledge and thank Mrs. Schaecken who has led the NLC with integrity and dedication over the past seven months. She has guided the NLC through this time of transition, and we are very appreciative of everything she has done."

• “I am confident that under the leadership of Mr. Deen, the NLC will continue to be a powerful advocate for the rights of Aboriginal people and help drive positive change across our seven regions. We look forward to working closely with him to build on past successes and navigate future opportunities to support our people.”

Quotes attributable to Mr. Yuseph Deen, incoming CEO of the NLC:

• “It is an honour to be appointed CEO of the Northern Land Council. I am deeply committed to continuing the important work of the NLC in protecting the rights and interests of Traditional Owners across the NLC’s seven regions.”

• “Together with the NLC team, I will work to ensure that our people have a strong voice in land and sea management and that we continue to build sustainable futures for all Aboriginal communities.”

• “I look forward to leading the organisation during this crucial time.”