Lauren Jago – Acting Chief Operating Officer

As Acting COO, Lauren brings more than two decades of senior leadership experience across infrastructure maintenance, civil construction, higher education and the aged care sector. She joined Southern Cross Care as General Manager Optimisation, focusing on strengthening organisational performance, operational systems and service integration. Lauren subsequently moved into the role of Acting General Manager Home and Communities, leading the home care and community services portfolio while continuing to support organisation-wide operational improvement.

Lauren’s leadership approach focuses on operational excellence, workforce alignment and sustainable service delivery. Her experience spans governance, risk management, change leadership and stakeholder engagement, enabling her to navigate complex operational environments while maintaining a strong focus on quality outcomes for residents, clients and staff.

Prior to joining Southern Cross Care Tasmania, Lauren held senior leadership roles where she led large multidisciplinary teams, delivered major contracts and implemented large-scale operational improvement programs. With expertise in strategy execution, organisational change and safety leadership, she brings a pragmatic and systems-focused approach that supports organisational stability, innovation and continuous improvement.