National peak body, Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA) announced today the appointment of Roland Sapsford as its new Chief Executive Officer. He takes over from Founder and current Executive Director, Fiona Armstrong.
"On behalf of the CAHA Board and our members, I thank Fiona Armstrong for an outstanding 11 years leading CAHA. We are delighted to welcome Roland Sapsford as CAHA's new CEO," CAHA President, Mr Michael Wheelahan, said today.
"Roland comes to CAHA after a distinguished career in public policy, advocacy and campaigning at a community and central government level. This makes him uniquely suited to lead the challenge of climate change and its effects on our health and health systems.
"I look forward to working with Roland to promote the health benefits of strong climate action in Australia, as well as ensuring the health sector plays a leading role in restoring a safe climate, and a healthy, sustainable and just world."
Mr Sapsford said, "I am excited by the opportunity to draw together many strands of my experience as CEO for such a respected and influential charity. CAHA's strong record in service of climate stability and human wellbeing is a key reason I accepted this role.
"Leading Australia's peak body for climate and health is a real honour, and I acknowledge the enormous work of Fiona and others over the last decade."
Looking forward, Mr Sapsford observed, "The impacts of climate change on health professionals and public health are obvious. The voice of health professionals and the health sector can play a significant role in leading conversations, action and advocacy, as planetary, public and personal health needs converge."
Mr Sapsford commences his role as CAHA Chief Executive on Monday 24 January, taking over from Ms Armstrong in stages until he is fully operating as CEO in April. At this point, Ms Armstrong will move into a new part time role as Strategic Projects Director.
