After helping boost the organisation's profile, Joe Gaudiosi will step down as chief executive of the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music.
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After six years in the role, he will finish up on August 28, in order to take on the role of CEO of Multicultural Aged Care Illawarra.
Mr Gaudiosi, who has a background in not-for-profits, said he was initially brought in to look at the Con's operations, particularly regarding the sustainability of the organisation.
Mr Gaudiosi said it had been important for the Conservatorium to establish a footprint and reputation across a broader cross-section of the wider community, not just in musical circles. He felt they'd achieved this.
"It was not only trying to make the place sustainable, but also known and valued," he said.
He said the number of the Conservatorium's music therapy clients had increased significantly during recent years.
He also cited the growth of their community music programs, including early childhood initiatives and individual lessons, and the success of their school programs.
Mr Gaudiosi said the organisation was in better financial shape nowadays.
"In November 2014, I needed an overdraft to pay the staff," he said.
"That's not the case today, which is really good."
He said the organisation's success had been a team effort, and praised the passion and commitment of the organisation's teachers.
The Con began its recruitment process for a replacement on the weekend.
The announcement arrives amid negotiations between the Con and Wollongong City Council over the future of its site at the Botanic Gardens.
Their current lease on the site expires in June 2023.
"The lease issue, 2023 is still three years away... But we're working on it already," Mr Gaudiosi said.
"It's not the sort of thing you leave until March 2023, and then have a discussion with council.
"Hopefully there will be a good, positive decision that can be made, sooner rather than later.
"I've got a few meetings lined up before August where hopefully I can progress that. So we'll look to continue those discussions.
"It's a really nice fit, the Con being up here, and the green spaces for the kids to run around in and for the parents to enjoy."
The Con will celebrate 50 years of existence in 2022.
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