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Sharon Mcgowan

Chief Executive Officer

Overview



Sharon McGowan AM is the current Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP). As CEO, she also holds the position of Chair of the Australian Living Evidence Collaboration (ALEC). Sharon's extensive career spans over three decades in the health and not-for-profit (NFP) sectors, encompassing significant leadership and governance roles.

Professional Background



Previous Roles


Prior to her tenure at RANZCP, Sharon served notably as:
  • CEO of the National Stroke Foundation for seven years, during which she successfully grew the Foundation’s revenue and impact.

  • Chair of the Australian Chronic Disease Prevention Alliance.

  • Chair of the National COVID-19 Clinical Evidence Taskforce Steering Committee.


Skills and Expertise


Sharon is recognized as an:
  • Experienced communicator with a deep background in health service management, community engagement, advocacy, culture transformation, and philanthropy.

  • Board Director, leveraging her broad governance experience in both Australia and the UK across various health, public sector, and not-for-profit organizations.


Education


  • Master of Business Administration from Cranfield University, UK.

  • Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).

  • Alumni of Harvard Business School through two short courses.


Honors and Awards


  • Member of the Order of Australia (AM), an honorary recognition awarded in 2024.


Current Role and Responsibilities



Leadership at RANZCP


As CEO of RANZCP, Sharon leads the College’s efforts to advance the understanding, prevention, and treatment of psychiatric disorders among the populations of Australia and New Zealand. RANZCP’s commitment to mental health is underpinned by robust educational programs, member support, and comprehensive public health initiatives.

Chair of ALEC


In her role as Chair of the Australian Living Evidence Collaboration, Sharon focuses on accelerating the application of medical research into actionable guidance for frontline clinicians. This involves synthesizing living evidence to promptly update medical guidelines, ensuring they reflect the latest research and clinical insights.

Sector Contributions


Sharon’s extensive contributions to the health sector have been underscored by her leadership in various high-impact organizations and committees that shape health policy and advocate for enhanced healthcare services.

Key Achievements at RANZCP


  • Enhanced community engagement and advocacy for mental health services.

  • Guided the College through transformative cultural initiatives.

  • Advanced strategic goals aligned with the College's mission to “deliver excellence and equity in the provision of mental healthcare.”


Contact Information



  • Office Address: 309 LaTrobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

  • Phone (Australia): 1800 337 448

  • Phone (New Zealand): 0800 443 827

  • Email: ranzcp@ranzcp.org


Online Presence and Media








This provides a thorough, data-oriented overview of Sharon McGowan AM, focusing on her professional background, key roles and responsibilities, and notable achievements. This information is primed for an effective outreach or engagement for business development purposes within the health sector.