Austin Health has welcomed the appointment of Ross Cooke as Board Chair.
CEO, Adam Horsburgh said it’s exciting to have someone with Ross’ background and experience to lead the Austin Health Board and support the work being done at the ONJ Cancer Centre.
“Over the last 35 years, Ross has worked extensively with public health, community health and aged care organisations as well as providing advice to State and Commonwealth departments, public and private hospitals and health insurers,” Adam said.
“This includes time with St Vincent’s Public Hospitals in Melbourne and Sydney, and holding positions on the Boards of a variety of organisations both within and outside the health industry.
“I’m looking forward to working with Ross, and the rest of Austin Health Board, so we can best meet the growing healthcare needs of our community,” he said.
Adam also acknowledged the work of Dr Christine Bessell in the role of Interim Board Chair over the past 11 months.
“The last year has been unprecedented in healthcare and Christine’s support during the COVID pandemic has been important to helping Austin Health to manage this challenge,” he said.
“I’m pleased to say she will continue to remain part of the Board which will help ensure a smooth transition for Ross into his new role.”
Ross’ first Board meeting will be at the in early March.
“Austin Health has a long-standing reputation for excellence and it is a proud moment to join the Board as Chair,” Ross said.
“We are currently living in an extraordinary time and I know an incredible amount of work is being done by Austin Health staff to not only respond to COVID-19 but to also make sure our patients are able to access the range of other services we provide.
“I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the coming months and supporting the great work that is taking place,” he said.
Ross has a Bachelor of Commerce and is a Chartered Accountant, and established the healthcare consultancy group Paxton Partners in 1999. He has previously worked with Medibank Private and has held positions on the Boards of the Burnet Medical Research Institute, Wintringham, AIA Health Fund and the Advisory board of Healthscope Hospital Group.