GMHBA has announced the appointment of a new chair with Claire Higgins to succeed the retiring Jim Walsh who is departing the board after 15 years service.
Mrs Higgins will be the first female Chair in the private health insurer’s 85-year history. She joined the GMHBA Board in 2019 and will begin her role as on 29 September 2020.
Mrs Higgins is an experienced director with a diverse background across a range of industries, including health and ageing, superannuation, property, water and manufacturing.
She has served on a range of private and public sector boards, including REI Superannuation, Ryman Healthcare Limited, Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, RT Health Fund, State Emergency Service, Country Fire Authority, Ambulance Victoria and Barwon Health.
“I feel quite privileged to be appointed as Chair of GMHBA. The organisation aligns strongly with my own personal values and I am particularly excited about contributing to GMHBA’s important role in promoting good health and supporting community,” said Mrs Higgins.
“As a not for profit fund that exists only to serve the interests of members, GMHBA is in a position to tailor care and support when and where it is needed most.”
“GMHBA employs great people working with purpose. We need to continue to strengthen our local engagement and make sure that GMHBA remains a significant employer in the region,” she said.
Outgoing Chair, Mr Jim Walsh, said, “I have no doubt that Claire will be an excellent Chair for GMHBA because she not only has a passion for regional Victoria, but she also has extensive experience in the health care and private health insurance industries. Since joining the Board last year, her skills and experience have been evident, gaining the unanimous support of her fellow directors to become the next Chair of GMHBA.”
“I wish Claire and the broader GMHBA Board and Executive, continued success as they build upon the organisation’s proud 85-year history in Geelong.”