Dr Vanessa Parletta is the CEO of ORS and a passionate advocate for delivering high-quality, evidence-based allied health, workplace rehabilitation and employment services that genuinely make a difference. With over 25 years’ management experience in large-scale, government and insurer-funded programs, Vanessa has dedicated her career to helping people with injuries, disabilities and mental health conditions overcome barriers, achieve their goals, and reach their full potential.

Vanessa’s research and academic achievements reflect her lifelong commitment to evidence-based practice:
• Doctor of Business Administration (Thesis): Implemented and evaluated Individual Placement and Support (IPS) – an evidence-based supported employment model for adults with severe and persistent mental illness.
• Masters & Bachelor Degrees (Theses): Developed and evaluated coping skills and stress management programs for both at-risk and mainstream offenders within a correctional environment.

Her work demonstrates a consistent focus on evaluating services to ensure they meet the goals of both clients and funders, with measurable outcomes.
Vanessa’s leadership and innovation have been recognised nationally:
• National Employment Services Association Discovery Grant Award (2012/2013)
• National Winner – Disability Employment Australia Bid Management Capability Award (2011)

She has also co-authored three peer-reviewed international journal articles and presented at national and international conferences, including the OECD Local Economic and Employment Development Forum in Dublin/Kilkenny.

Specialist Areas of Interest
• Workplace Safety & Behavioural Risk: Assessment of dangerousness, reducing physical aggression, and preventing critical incidents in workplace settings.
• Positive Behaviour Support: Expertise in designing and implementing behaviour support plans including restrictive practices that meet best-practice standards. Is a Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner in Forensic and Complex Mental Health.
• Individual Placement and Support (IPS): Implementing high fidelity IPS programs for clients with complex mental health conditions.
Vanessa is deeply committed to service evaluation, innovation, and impact – ensuring ORS delivers interventions and services that not only meet compliance and contract requirements but also transform lives.