Elyse Taylor-Jackson, Duty Manager for Southern Operations based in Alice Springs, has made a meaningful impact during her three years with St John Northern Territory (NT). Recognised at the organisation’s 2025 Excellence Awards, Elyse’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to both her team and the communities they serve.
In her role, Elyse is responsible for overseeing operational readiness across a vast and complex remote region. She ensures the safe and effective delivery of ambulance services while providing both clinical and managerial support to crews on shift. Her responsibilities extend beyond logistics, she actively supports staff welfare, addresses performance matters, and fosters a positive, professional team environment.
Elyse’s journey into leadership was driven by her firsthand experience on the road. Witnessing the challenges faced by frontline staff inspired her to step into a role where she could influence meaningful change. She sought to strengthen support systems, improve operational processes, and help cultivate a respectful, high-performing workplace culture.
Her contributions go well beyond her core duties. Elyse has played a key role in improving communication within teams, proactively addressing issues, and advocating for both staff and patient wellbeing. She has also supported cultural change initiatives led by frontline staff, helping to drive positive outcomes across the southern region.
One of Elyse’s proudest achievements is the trust she has built within her team. She has created an environment where staff feel heard, valued, and supported. This was especially evident during a particularly challenging Christmas period, marked by high-acuity cases and limited resources. During this time, Elyse prioritised individual check-ins, provided clear direction, and implemented morale boosting efforts to support crews working under intense pressure.
Through her leadership, Elyse has contributed to improved team morale, strengthened service reliability, and enhanced patient experiences all within the demanding context of remote healthcare delivery. Her work stands as a testament to the impact of compassionate, proactive leadership in critical frontline services.
