Gembridge launched in 2019 with a new logo, a fresh website, and a bold vision to make a meaningful difference across the for‑purpose sector. We introduced ourselves officially at the FIA Conference in Melbourne, surrounded by industry peers and the energy of the sector.
My connection with FIA goes back much further—many of the incredible people I first met at the Sydney Conference in 2009 remain clients, candidates, colleagues, and friends today. Nearly two decades on, the FIA Conference remains the perfect place to celebrate our birthday each year, right in the heart of thousands of fundraising friends.
In February 2020, we welcomed our first team member, Jenni D'Orival, who now celebrates six wonderful years with Gembridge. Just weeks after she joined, the world shifted into COVID lockdown, yet we adapted quickly. Jenni's growth mindset, calm and steady nature, leadership, dedication to exceptional service, and deep love of coffee continue to anchor and uplift our culture. She is an incredible colleague, a trusted partner to our clients and candidates, and a foundational part of the Gembridge story.
Gembridge continues to evolve and expand. Year seven reminds us how far we have come, and how much more we are excited to build. We have big plans for Year 8 - and in a lovely full‑circle moment, my daughter’s school journey has grown alongside Gembridge, now also entering Year 8.
7 Years, 7 Highlights
Our Exceptional Team
Jenni, Dawn, Lisa, Malu, Lauren, Troy and Leroy - your energy, collaboration, humour and commitment form the heart of Gembridge. #DreamTeam
L-R: Troy, Lauren, Lisa, Dawn, Jenni and Michelle
Deep Client Partnerships
96.9% of our work is generated through relationships and sector presence, with most projects coming from returning clients and 17% from new clients referred by trusted partners. Your trust and partnership remain our strongest drivers of success.
Recruiting Across the Sector
We have proudly recruited a wide range of roles across Fundraising, Philanthropy, Advancement, Marketing, Communications, NFP Leadership, Policy and Advocacy, and People and Culture - helping organisations grow and candidates thrive. We love playing a part in supporting people into their dream roles, and helping organisations build strong, capable teams that drive meaningful impact.
BCorp Re-certification
Gembridge became a B Corp in 2022, early in our business journey, ensuring we built strong frameworks, clear policies, and a lasting commitment to balancing people, planet, and profit. This year, we re-certified with an increased B Impact Score of 108.6.
Becoming a B Corp early keeps us focused on continuous improvement, measuring impact, and creating long-term value.
Sector Partnerships
Gembridge has proudly supported FIA for many years through the Leadership and Emerging Issues Track, Fundraiser of the Year Award and VIC Chapter Sponsorship (5 years). We’re also members and partners of Educate Plus, F&P and Philanthropy Australia.
L-R: Lisa Krishtul, James Garland, Michelle Varcoe and Jenni D’Orival
Giving Back
Gembridge’s commitment to social impact extends beyond recruitment. Since establishing our subfund with the Australian Communities Foundation (ACF) in 2022, we’ve been able to grow our philanthropy with purpose. Alongside this, our volunteering efforts continue to strengthen our connection to community.
Innovation and Growth in Year Seven
A key focus for us is balancing innovation and AI with a human‑centred approach. We are constantly testing, learning and improving, always ensuring efficiencies support and not replace relationships and connections.
One of our guiding principles remains: "Move more forward than back - always." Reflecting on our journey, we have certainly done that.
To our clients, candidates, collaborators and team - thank you. Your trust, partnership, loyalty and shared purpose have shaped every step of this journey.
Cheers to seven years, and to the next chapter of growth, innovation and thriving impact!
If you are attending FIA Conference this week in Melbourne, come say hello!
Gembridge is sponsoring the Leadership & Emerging Issues Track (Level 2, Room 213). We love to immerse ourselves in sessions and networking, so you won’t find us at an exhibition stand. We’ll be nearby or roaming around, soaking up the vibe, learning and connecting.
See you there!