The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) is proud to welcome Ms Bernadette McDonald as our new Chief Executive Officer.

Ms McDonald has until recently been the CEO of Canberra Health Services at a time of great change in the ACT’s health service system. She is recognised as being an outstanding and successful leader in the transformation of that service.

Prior to that appointment, Ms McDonald was the Deputy CEO and then Interim CEO of Austin Health having previously been CEO of the Orbost Regional Health Service.

Chairman of the RCH Board, Mr Rob Knowles AO said that Bernadette was an exceptional leader, who has a proven track record in the strategic transformation of health services.

“Ms McDonald is recognised as a highly strategic and confident leader who has a track record of delivery,” Mr Knowles said. “We are excited to have attracted such an inspiring and experienced leader and one who has an absolute commitment to exceptional patient care.”

Ms McDonald said she was honoured to be offered and accept the opportunity.

“I feel energised for the opportunity to work with such an outstanding team who consistently deliver the highest quality care every day,” Ms McDonald said.

“My career as a nurse has set the foundation for how I connect with and lead a health care workforce. Being a clinician gives me a deep understanding of the complexities staff face every day especially in these most challenging of times.

“I feel honoured and privileged for the opportunity to lead one of the world’s great children’s hospitals. Together we will continue to focus on delivering excellence and the provision of great care everywhere for children, young people, and their families, working closely and collaboratively with partners on the Melbourne Children’s Campus as well as Paediatric Services throughout Victoria,” she said.

Bernadette has extensive experience in the Australian health sector and has occupied senior roles in Victorian hospitals and in the Victorian Health and Human Services Department. She has a Bachelor of Nursing, a Master of Health Administration, post graduate diplomas in Health Services and Health Systems Management, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.