GERARD BRODY EXIT INTERVIEW

In his last week as Consumer Action CEO in January 2023, Gerard sat down to reflect on some of his experiences at the Centre. One of the most incredible aspects of Gerard’s leadership is his calm and very kind demeanor. What’s his secret?

“You’ve got to be light some days, and take things one step at a time,” he says.

“People who contact us are often in really traumatic situations and that is difficult and serious, but unless we are able to see the lighter part of the world, we’re not going to be able to assist them.”

The COVID-19 pandemic was the most challenging time he faced as CEO. Feeling disconnected, he worried about the other managers and staff and how they were coping.

“It was a really difficult time,” he says. Despite the lockdowns, Consumer Action was still able to help people and make an impact, and the new flexible working environment is now a sign of progress.

“There are not many jobs and organizations where you have the capacity and the independence of thought … the ability to speak to key decision-makers in business and government … the ability to speak our truths,” Gerard says.

He looks back on his time at Consumer Action, saying he’s “thankful and proud to have worked with so many wonderful people who are collaborative and supportive.”

“I think this is the best job I will ever have in my career, I really do,” he says.

Gerard concludes by sharing the values he believes are integral to Consumer Action.

“The collaborative way in which we work and build each other up, play to each other’s strengths is part of Consumer Action’s DNA.”

“Courage and bravery in this work. We need to speak truth to power … it can be easy to not say anything. We can be reassured that we’re speaking out based on our casework.”

“We’re making a practical difference in people’s lives … the work we do is about human dignity … it’s human rights.”

Gerard Brody, Former Consumer Action CEO