The Board of the Sydney Diocesan Secretariat and Glebe Administration Board announced on Thursday that the Chief Executive Officer, Steve McKerihan, has stepped down from that role, effective 28 April 2010.

The Chairman of the Glebe Board and Secretariat, Canon Bruce Ballantine-Jones, said today that the resignation of Mr McKerihan is a great loss and sadness to the organisation and the wider Diocese.  "Steve's special contribution and his personal qualities have brought major benefits to the Diocese and its processes.  He will be greatly missed".

In his letter to the Board Mr McKerihan said he had decided to step down because most of the restructuring plans set in train after last year's Synod are progressing appropriately, and his departure will facilitate further restructuring.  Mr McKerihan became ill earlier this year, his recovery appears to be progressing well, and he is looking to continue in some form of secular and or Christian work in the future.

Mr McKerihan underwent surgery in February for a brain tumour and also had to undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The Archbishop of Sydney, the Most Rev. Peter Jensen said, "Mr McKerihan's leadership during many difficult times has been a blessing from God.  He steered us with great skill and character, making an indispensible contribution".

Before embarking on obtaining a replacement, the Board has decided to review the nature and structure of the organisation to clarify its role and roles of the new Chief Executive.