ISSA Oceania Announces Leadership Change & Staffing Expansion

ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association

The Oceania division of ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association, is preparing for a change in leadership. Kim Taranto, ISSA Oceania manager, is passing the mantle to Lauren Micallef, effective April 20, 2018. The move comes as Taranto takes her leave to pursue a new career opportunity.

Micallef, a dynamic executive who has risen through the ranks of product and business marketing, leading teams and launching nationwide programs in Australia, will prove a worthy successor to Taranto.

“We are excited to welcome Lauren to the ISSA team and look forward to her future contributions toward the continued growth of the association and the Oceania professional cleaning industry,” said ISSA International Services Vice President Dianna Steinbach.

Micallef will be based in ISSA’s Botany office and will work closely with Steinbach and Vernie Navarro, ISSA Oceania membership coordinator.

“Kim Taranto has brought so much passion and a wealth of knowledge to her work in the local cleaning industry and her role at ISSA,” Steinbach stated. “Now it’s time for her to take advantage of a truly amazing opportunity. In fact, I couldn’t be happier for her as she pursues her new position with International Cycling Executives that combines her passion for cycling with her professional skills.”

Taranto and Micallef have already begun their work to ensure a seamless transition. “I’m very passionate about ISSA and its mission, and proud of what we have achieved for our region,” said Taranto. “I’m happy to work with Lauren in the coming weeks to ensure she has all the information, guidance, and tools needed to help her continue what we have started.”

The Team Continues to Grow

With the success achieved so far in creating engagement in the Oceania cleaning industry, ISSA is expanding its core staff in the region. Carolyn Journeaux of Fame Group will join ISSA to provide part-time project management support for ISSA Oceania, specifically for new program launches and educational offerings. Journeaux has a strong background working with associations in facility management, contract cleaning, and related industry segments.

ISSA also plans to hire additional membership support staff in the coming months to address the needs of the growing ISSA Oceania membership. “While we are sad to see Kim go, we have big plans in motion for the region,” Steinbach said.

“We intend to continue building on everything she has helped achieve so far as we remain dedicated to the vision of changing the way the world views cleaning.”