Ballarat Executive and Leadership Team

Paul Rowse, the Chief Executive Officer at Ballarat, directs the overarching strategic vision for community health initiatives. Overseeing the integration of diverse clinical services, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the organization addresses rising rates of chronic illness and obesity through targeted health promotion. Rowse manages the operational alignment across the Lucas, Smythesdale, Sebastopol, and Wendouree sites to maximize community impact. By collaborating with partner agencies, the Chief Executive Officer secures sustainable solutions for complex health problems. This leadership role involves balancing financial accessibility with high-quality care delivery to support the broader Australian population. Paul Rowse maintains a focus on long-term health outcomes, ensuring that the organization remains the leading provider of community-based support. Through rigorous oversight of clinical and administrative functions, the Chief Executive Officer drives the mission to improve emotional wellbeing and physical health across the region.

Peter McKnight, the President at Ballarat, governs the board and ensures the organization adheres to its mission of providing accessible community health services. Overseeing the high-level governance of the organization, the President facilitates strategic discussions regarding the expansion of clinical support and health promotion activities. McKnight directs the board in evaluating the effectiveness of services like diabetes education, alcohol and drug support, and general practice. The President ensures that the organization maintains its status as a leader in community health by fostering collaboration between internal teams and external partners. Peter McKnight monitors the impact of health initiatives on the broader Australian population, focusing on reversing trends in chronic illness. This leadership role involves setting the tone for organizational accountability and community engagement. By guiding the board through complex decision-making processes, the President secures the resources necessary to deliver high-quality, equitable care across all regional sites.

Sonny Shah, the Chief Information Officer at Ballarat, architects the digital infrastructure necessary to support comprehensive health service delivery. Managing the secure flow of patient data across multiple clinical sites, the Chief Information Officer ensures that health professionals access accurate information for chronic disease management and general practice. Shah implements robust systems that facilitate coordinated care, allowing for seamless transitions between services like physiotherapy, podiatry, and speech pathology. The Chief Information Officer optimizes technology to track health trends, enabling the organization to respond effectively to lifestyle and nutrition challenges within the community. By modernizing digital platforms, Sonny Shah enhances operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making. This role involves protecting sensitive health information while providing the tools required for staff to deliver high-quality care. Through continuous technological innovation, the Chief Information Officer supports the organizational goal of creating a healthier future for every individual.

Audrey Watson, the Life Member at Ballarat, provides historical continuity and strategic guidance to the organizational leadership. Representing the long-term commitment to community health, the Life Member advises on initiatives that address complex health problems and chronic disease management. Watson supports the expansion of health promotion programs, ensuring that the organization remains aligned with the evolving needs of the local population. By leveraging deep institutional knowledge, the Life Member assists in maintaining strong relationships with partner agencies and community stakeholders. Audrey Watson contributes to the stability of the organization, fostering an environment where health professionals can deliver effective care across all four sites. This role involves advocating for the mission of improving life expectancy and reducing the prevalence of obesity. Through consistent engagement with the board and executive team, the Life Member ensures that the core values of accessibility and community connectedness remain central to every service offered.