A new Chief Executive Officer has today been announced for Austin Health, heralding a new era for the service.
Following an extensive national and international search attracting an exceptional field of candidates, Ms Jodie Geissler has been appointed as the next Austin Health Chief Executive Officer. Jodie will start her term in March 2025.
Ms Geissler is the Deputy Secretary, Hospitals and Health Services Division at the Department of Health Victoria, and brings a wealth of experience of the Victorian health system and patient-focused operational improvements to the role.
Austin Health Chair, Mr Ross Cooke OAM, said Ms Geissler’s appointment is an important step for the service.
“We are very excited for Jodie join Austin Health as our CEO and to lead the next exciting chapter for our service. Having an unparalleled insight into the system, including the challenges and opportunities, Jodie is uniquely placed to build on the legacy of those who came before to bring Austin Health into a whole new era of performance. This is fantastic news for our patients and communities, and our staff”, said Mr Cooke.
Ms Geissler said she looks forward to the move into Austin Health.
“I have worked with Austin Health representatives throughout my career, as far back as during the planning stages of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre", said Ms Geissler.
“I have known for a long time that Austin Health’s commitment to excellence in care, teaching and research, and its values and culture, align with my personal values and priorities. It is a deeply respected organisation, and it is a privilege to join it.
“My focus will be to ensure that we harness every opportunity we can, we are aligned as an effective and efficient service, to continue to deliver the high-quality and accessible care that our communities deserve and expect from us. This will mean continuing to build on the fantastic work Austin Health is already doing”, said Ms Geissler.
Mr Cooke thanked Mr Cameron Goodyear for his excellent leadership in the Interim Chief Executive Officer role while the search for the next Austin Health CEO was underway.
“The Board and I extend our genuine and deep gratitude to Cameron Goodyear, who has served as the Interim CEO since August. Cameron has led Austin Health with the principled, professional and engaging approach for which he is known throughout the sector. Cameron will continue to be a vital part of our team, resuming his substantive role as Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO in the new year", said Mr Cooke.
Ms Jodie Geissler