Mrs Tozer started working in residential care before progressing up through organisations to become CEO.

She also raised five children with her husband Steve Tozer who also worked full time.

During her time with CareSouth she helped double the size of the organisations revenue, achieved an operating surplus every year, oversaw the opening of new offices across the state as far west as Deniliquin, Batemans Bay in the South.

CareSouth has grown to employ  more than 300 staff now working with thousands of service users and community participants every year. 

As the search begins for a new CEO in coming weeks CareSouth  chair John Dorahy wrote to staff about Mrs Tozer’s decision and the farewell being planned over the coming six months.

“I have seen first-hand Deb’s unique combination of tenacity, drive, humanity and compassion that have made her a truly great leader and we really thank her for her incredible contribution over the last seven years,” Mr Dorahy said.

“Deb will leave an indelible impression on the lives of many. CareSouth makes a difference in the lives of thousands of people each year. Under Deb’s leadership we were able to grow that number considerably, reaching into new areas of need stretching across the state”.

“Our assets, resources and revenue grew in a measured and careful manner allowing us to meet ever growing challenges.  Our strength today comes from Deb’s stewardship”.

“Deb has rightfully been recognised as the Business Leader of the Year in the NSW Business Awards and then steered CareSouth to victory to be the first not-for profit organisation to win the prestigious Business of the Year Award in the Shoalhaven. These awards are testament to her bringing the organisation into a new era where we stand toe to toe with the best run commercial businesses in the country.”