Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre has 4 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, medical affairs, and communications.

Dedicated to advancing cancer care, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre operates as a premier research, education, and treatment hub, uniquely focused on supporting individuals impacted by cancer and driving innovation in cellular immunotherapy.

Leadership Roles at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

  • Chief Financial Officer - Libby Secomb
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operations Cancer Imaging - Lisa Shaw-Stuart
  • Chief Medical Officer - Dishan Herath
  • Chief Communications Officer (Cco) - Vanessa O'Shaughnessy
  • Libby Secomb - Chief Financial Officer

    Libby Secomb, the Chief Financial Officer at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, directs all financial strategy and operations. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Secomb ensures fiscal responsibility across the institution. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining strong relationships with financial stakeholders, including government bodies and philanthropic partners. By implementing robust financial controls and driving efficiency, Libby Secomb directly supports the centre's mission of providing world-leading cancer research, education, and treatment. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to ensuring the financial viability necessary for pioneering initiatives like CAR-T therapy and establishing centres of excellence in cellular immunotherapy, thereby securing the long-term sustainability of Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre's critical services.

    Lisa Shaw-Stuart - Deputy Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operations Cancer Imaging

    Lisa Shaw-Stuart, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operations Cancer Imaging at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, manages critical operational functions and oversees the specialized area of cancer imaging. This dual role involves optimizing day-to-day operations across various departments while ensuring the highest standards in diagnostic imaging services. Shaw-Stuart's responsibilities include streamlining workflows, enhancing patient throughput, and implementing best practices in operational management to support the centre's comprehensive cancer care model. Directing the operations within Cancer Imaging, Lisa Shaw-Stuart ensures the effective deployment of advanced technologies and resources, directly contributing to accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This leadership position is vital for maintaining the seamless delivery of services that underpin Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre's reputation as a world-leading cancer treatment centre.

    Dishan Herath - Chief Medical Officer

    Dishan Herath, the Chief Medical Officer at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, leads the clinical strategy and medical operations, ensuring the highest quality of patient care and medical excellence. Herath's purview encompasses the development and implementation of clinical policies, standards, and protocols across all medical disciplines. This executive function involves fostering a culture of continuous improvement in patient outcomes and safety, directly aligning medical practice with the centre's research and education mandates. Overseeing the medical staff, Dishan Herath ensures the effective integration of cutting-edge treatments, including pioneering CAR-T therapy, into patient care pathways. The Chief Medical Officer's strategic direction is fundamental to Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre's mission as Australia's sole public health service dedicated exclusively to cancer care, driving advancements in research and treatment.

    Vanessa O'Shaughnessy - Chief Communications Officer (Cco)

    Vanessa O'Shaughnessy, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, directs all internal and external communication strategies, enhancing the centre's public profile and stakeholder engagement. O'Shaughnessy is responsible for shaping the narrative around the institution's groundbreaking research, educational initiatives, and patient care services. This role involves managing media relations, corporate communications, and digital presence to effectively convey the impact of Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre's work. By fostering clear and consistent messaging, Vanessa O'Shaughnessy supports fundraising efforts, builds community trust, and strengthens partnerships crucial for advancing cancer treatment and research. The Chief Communications Officer's strategic communication ensures the centre's leadership in areas like CAR-T therapy and cellular immunotherapy resonates with the public and key constituents.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre?
    Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre is led by Libby Secomb (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Lisa Shaw-Stuart (Deputy Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operations Cancer Imaging) and Dishan Herath (Chief Medical Officer).
    Who is part of Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre’s executive team?
    The executive team of Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre includes leaders such as Libby Secomb (Chief Financial Officer), Lisa Shaw-Stuart (Deputy Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operations Cancer Imaging), Dishan Herath (Chief Medical Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre have?
    Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer & Director, Operations Cancer Imaging, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Communications Officer (Cco).