Dr Herath, Director of Cancer Services at Western Health, takes the reins from Professor Mei Krishnasamy, Director of the Academic Nursing Unit, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the VCCC Alliance Research and Education Lead, Cancer Nursing who has been acting as interim Chair since April, when previous Chair, Professor Maarten IJzerman, left to take up a new appointment in the Netherlands.
In appointing Dr Herath as Chair, the VCCC Alliance board noted his prestigious track record of innovation in cancer leadership, breadth of expertise, and commitment to the alliance was considered ideal for the leadership position. “This is a pivotal time for the alliance,” said Professor Linda Kristjanson AO, Chair of the Board. “As we focus on helping to shape a cancer system that is more equitable for all Victorians, Dish is the right leader at the right time.”
Professor Grant McArthur, Executive Director of the VCCC Alliance, said Dr Herath brings unique experience and skills to the key strategic position.
“We are thrilled to have Dish at the helm in such a prominent strategic position for the VCCC Alliance,” Prof McArthur said.
“The expertise and leadership he will bring with a strong foundation in solutions-focused digital oncology will set us up to continue to change the way we tackle cancer in Victoria."
“His work as Head of Cancer Services at Western Health has given him a unique and acute understanding of the coalface issues faced in healthcare by one of the fastest growing and most culturally and linguistically diverse populations in our state.”
Dr Herath said he was looking forward to bringing his expertise to his new leadership position. “Collaboration and ensuring that all members of the alliance have opportunities to contribute and benefit from our work will be important for future success,” he said. “I am excited about working with the committee to guide continued innovation in cancer research and tackle the complex challenge of improving equity in cancer outcomes.”
The Board sincerely thanks Professor Krishnasamy for her generous contribution as interim Chair, providing incisive, thoughtful and inclusive leadership during this time.
Dr Dishan Herath
