Bendigo Community Health Services has appointed Gerard José as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Mr José comes to BCHS after four years as Chief Executive Officer with Mildura Rural City Council.

He will start with BCHS early in 2019 when present CEO Kim Sykes finishes after more than eight years in the role.

BCHS Board of Directors Chair Geoff Bowyer said Mr José was selected after an extensive recruitment process that included support from Fisher Leadership.

“The board is confident Gerard has the experience and leadership skills to ensure Bendigo Community Health Services can continue to grow and support our community, particularly the vulnerable and disadvantaged,” Mr Bowyer said.

“Gerard impressed the board with his strong background in leadership and strong affiliation with regional Victoria.

“We believe Gerard is a very engaging leader who will draw on the strengths of existing staff and further those strengths. He will be a great mentor.

“As we come to the end of our present three-year Strategic Directions, we see 2019 as an important time for BCHS as we finalise a new plan for the future of the organisation and Gerard will be critical to that process.

“We’re proud of what BCHS has achieved under the quality leadership of Kim Sykes and we look forward to continuing to build our services and programs to care for the Bendigo community with Gerard’s guidance and initiatives.”

Mr José said the BCHS CEO role provided a great opportunity to work with very talented staff to gain an understanding of the community health and well-being issues and improve our community’s quality of life.

“The Board impressed me with their passion to work in partnership with others in our region to create healthier outcomes and meet needs in a systemic way,” Mr José said.

“I appreciate the opportunities for BCHS to engage directly with others to ensure opportunities are explored, and work to achieve BCHS’s vision. I believe that we will continue to build strong relationships and networks across agencies and governments that will be of deep benefit for communities, all spheres of government and the economy.”

Mr José said while he was looking forward to his new position, it was with some sadness that he would be leaving the Mallee.

“I have treasured my time here in the Mallee and acknowledge the leadership of Council in championing improved relationships and reconciliation with our wonderful Aboriginal community, White Ribbon Accreditation and addressing violence in our community, and building Respectful Relationships with many key partners.”

Mildura Rural City Council Mayor Simon Clemence highlighted Mr José’s leadership qualities and commitment to the region.

“As CEO, Gerard has provided diligent and ethical leadership to Council and shown great passion for the community in which he and his family have lived,” Cr Clemence said.

“He has demonstrated an outstanding capacity to engage with the community and partner agencies in our region and forged strong ties which will be among his lasting legacies.

“I’d like to congratulate Gerard on his new role as CEO of Bendigo Community Health Service and wish him and his family the very best for the future.”