Ms Emery will replace Lindsay Cane AM, who earlier this year announced she would retire in July after decade at the helm of the renowned charity.

Ms Emery has worked with the charity for the past four and a half years as executive director for Business People and Culture.

She was appointed to the role following an executive search where more than 130 candidates were evaluated.

In announcing her appointment the board say she has "demonstrated strong commercial acumen, an ability to lead and develop high-performance teams across a range of sectors, and has a deep understanding of the pivotal nature of strategic relationships upon which Royal Far West's success is built."

Ms Emery said she was "honoured" by the appointment.

"I am honoured that the Board of Royal Far West has entrusted me with the great privilege of leading this unique organisation, as we enter an exciting new chapter which will culminate in our centenary.

"We will continue to go the extra country mile for rural and remote children, families and communities to ensure that country kids have the supports they require for healthy development that can enable them to thrive.

"I am excited to get started in the role and work closely with the team to deliver on our new strategic plan and build on the amazing legacy of our outgoing CEO Lindsay Cane AM."

Ms Cane said Ms Emery is the "right person at the right time with the composite skills to be both leader and consolidator of Royal Far West".

"I have every confidence that Jacqui will rise to her new challenge with passion, determination and integrity.

"As I pass the CEO baton to Jacqui, I am excited to continue working with her in my new role as project pirector of Royal Far West's beachside development, to amplify the impact of the charity for the next 100 years."

Royal Far West's chairman Joan Treweeke OAM said the charity had been helping country kids and their families for almost 100 years, and would continue to do so.

"I observe with immense pride the way our management, clinicians and volunteers fulfil their daily charter to better the lives of country children who need the services of Royal Far West to improve their health and wellbeing.

"The demand for our children's services, which is a life-changing experience for both the children and their families, has never been greater."

In 2020 the charity supported around 10,000 children and families.

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