Danielle Hayes

Danielle joined Mercy Works in 2023 and leads the organisation’s fundraising, marketing and communications. She is passionate about sharing stories that inspire support, strengthen partnerships and create opportunities for communities to thrive.

Danielle has more than 20 years’ experience in marketing, communications and philanthropy across Australia, Singapore and the United States. Before joining Mercy Works, she was Director of Stewardship at the Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health in California, supporting philanthropy for Stanford Children’s Health and the maternal and paediatric health programs at Stanford University School of Medicine. Earlier in her career, she worked with international communications consultancy Hill & Knowlton, advising global organisations while also supporting youth homelessness through pro bono work.

Danielle’s connection with the Sisters of Mercy began in childhood. Her mother worked for many years as Executive Assistant to Margaret McGovern RSM AO, whose friendship with Danielle’s family inspired a lifelong appreciation of the Mercy tradition. Danielle later worked alongside the Sisters of Mercy at Mater Hospital in North Sydney, reinforcing her commitment to Catherine McAuley’s vision of compassion, justice and service.