In the interim, another CEO

By Kate Taylor

The Ballan District Health and Care Board has appointed one of its own as a new interim CEO.
Volunteer Board member Rowena Clift was appointed by the Board to be the latest in a string of interim CEOs at the organisation as it struggles for financial sustainability.
Ms Clift replaces Shawn Lee, who will now be returned to his role as Director of Allied and Community Health.
Ms Clift is well qualified for the position – she has worked in health care for over 25 years and has held a variety of executive positions, most recently working with the Western Victoria Primary Health Network.
“My passion and professional focus is ensuring access – and equity in access – of health services in rural and regional Victoria. Let’s keep people healthy. I’ll be looking at ways how each of our departments can be strengthened so that Ballan District Health & Care can become viable and sustainable for the community,” Ms Clift said.
The Board released a statement thanking Mr Lee for his outstanding work as interim CEO over the past nine months.
The Moorabool News asked why Mr Lee had been replaced.
“Rowena was appointed Interim CEO for this next stage of review for BDHC. The next phase of review has now started and the Board Chair (Lyn Gunnell) and Rowena have started more detailed conversations with the Department of Health and Human Services about the role of BDHC in the provision of health care to our local community. This also allows Shawn to move back to his role as Director of Allied and Community Health,” a spokesperson said.