Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA) is delighted to announce Dr. Kathy Chapman has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer of the organisation. An experienced senior leader and CEO, Kathy commenced in the role on 18 July 2022.
MDFA is a for-purpose organisation working to reduce the incidence and impact of macular disease – the leading cause of irreversible vision loss and blindness in Australia. For more than 20 years, MDFA has been the only national charity representing the interests of the 8.9 million Australians at risk of, or living with, macular disease.
Kathy brings to MDFA extraordinary experience as a dynamic and respected senior leader and CEO in the for-purpose sector, including public health and promoting inclusion for people with disabilities. Kathy’s executive career traverses key organisations such the Heart Foundation of Australia, Down Syndrome NSW, Cancer Council NSW, and the NSW Council of Social Services.
Kathy is an influential and decisive leader with significant experience setting and delivering on strategy, as well as scaling public health and advocacy programs to support the community. Everything MDFA does is underpinned by a commitment to people living with or at risk of macular disease; Kathy’s career of successful advocacy and leadership of preventative health programs makes her a perfect fit for the role.
“I am excited by the opportunity to lead the next phase of growth for MDFA and make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with macular disease and at risk of blindness,” says Kathy
“My grandmother lived with age-related macular degeneration so I understand how this condition can negatively impact on the quality of life for a person and for the people that care for them. There were no treatment options available when my grandmother was alive, so I am committed to advancing better treatment outcomes for patients and their families.”
Kathy holds a PhD in public health nutrition and began her career as a dietitian. Kathy is a Board Director at Healthy Kids Association and holds honorary academic appointments with the University of Sydney and University of Newcastle.
MDFA Chair, Mr Graeme Head, AO, stated “the Board is delighted to have attracted someone as talented as Kathy—to continue our strong tradition of prevention and early detection, patient support, advocacy, and research, and build upon the outstanding work that is delivered by our staff and volunteers every day. We are confident that in Kathy we have found someone who will lead the organisation with innovation, distinction, and integrity.”
Posted: 20 July 2022
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