CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK
GOLD COAST PRIMARY HEALTH NETWORK
We respect and honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and commit to building a brighter future together
Executive Summary
- Exceptional Chief Executive leadership role
- Inspire, lead and evolve a high-performing organisation
- Lead system-wide innovation
- Building one world class health system for the Gold Coast
THE ORGANISATION
Gold Coast Primary Health Network (GCPHN) is a high-performing, future-focused organisation dedicated to building a world-class health system for the Gold Coast region — one of Australia’s healthiest and most populous urban centres, with over 600,800 residents. The Gold Coast boasts a strong primary healthcare system, with residents benefiting from one of the highest rates of GP services in the country. GCPHN plays a pivotal role in improving the coordination, accessibility, and effectiveness of primary care services, particularly for vulnerable and at-risk communities. With a strong emphasis on integration, value-based care, innovation, and co-design, the organisation is recognised for its strategic leadership, system transformation efforts, and commitment to community health outcomes.
THE OPPORTUNITY
This is a career-defining opportunity to lead a bold and influential primary health network at the forefront of health system reform. Reporting to the Board, the Chief Executive Officer will be responsible for driving the strategic direction, operational performance, and financial sustainability of the organisation. The CEO will champion digital innovation, evidence-informed service design, and high-impact commissioning aligned with population health priorities. The role requires effective representation of the region’s health needs at state and federal levels, while also fostering trusted partnerships with clinicians, community organisations, hospital services, and consumers. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape a truly integrated and person-centred health system that sets a national benchmark for impact and performance.
THE ROLE
GCPHN is seeking a confident, dynamic, and respected executive with a strong reputation for leadership and delivery in complex health or related sectors. The ideal candidate will bring bold vision, strategic insight, and the ability to inspire and empower high-performing teams. They will demonstrate exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, policy and systems acumen, and a personal commitment to innovation and equity in healthcare. With strong financial and governance capability, they will lead a culture of accountability, adaptability, and performance. Importantly, they will bring others on a journey — uniting partners and staff around a shared purpose to improve lives and create lasting change across the Gold Coast region.
For a confidential discussion, please get in touch with:
Paul Ingle, HG Chief Executive Officer
M: +61 0402 796 125
E: pingle@hardygroupintl.com
Rhodie Miller
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
M. +61 (0)422 816 557
E. rmiller@hardygroupintl.com
GOLD COAST PHN
‘Building one world class health system for the Gold Coast’
Gold Coast Primary Health Network (GCPHN) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation, funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care. GCPHN is one of the 31 Primary Health Networks established by the Australian Government in 2015, to identify the health needs of local communities and fund and improve primary health services, to keep people well and out of hospital.
GCPHN are committed to building a healthy, connected, and resilient community. One of the ways we do this is by providing resources and information for the local Gold Coast community about how to access local health services. Our funded services include Mental Health, Primary Care, and Aged Care among others.
GCPHN works closely with public, private and nongovernment organisations in the primary healthcare sector and across the acute care sector to improve the health and well-being of the Gold Coast. GCPHN is building ‘one world class health system for the Gold Coast’ and we know we can’t do it alone. To achieve this goal, we work closely with diverse groups, sharing knowledge and skills, working to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our primary care system, ensuring it meets local needs.
GCPHN play an instrumental role working with the health sector and local Gold Coast community to improve health services for residents by:
- Leading the development of a needs assessment that identifies the health needs of local residents and service issues within our local system, then designing solutions to meet those needs. This includes the assessment, planning and establishment of new health services.
- Funding health organisations to provide local health services across a range of areas including mental health, alcohol and other drugs, aged and palliative care, persistent pain, suicide prevention, cancer screening, immunisation, improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and supporting general practices in quality improvement.
- Helping the health system work better together for patients and their families. This includes supporting health professionals including general practitioners, to improve the quality of patient care.
Strategic Goals
- Improve coordination of care to ensure patients receive the right care, at the right place, at the right time and by the right person.
- Increase efficiency and effectiveness of medical services particularly for those at risk of poor health outcomes.
- Engaging with stakeholders to improve our health system. Actively engage and advocate for general practice and other stakeholders to facilitate improvement in our local health systems.
- An accountable organisation. Operate as a high performing, efficient and accountable organisation.
Structure
Gold Coast Primary Health Network (GCPHN) works closely with public, private and non-government organisations in the primary health care sector and across the acute care sector to improve the health and well-being of the Gold Coast. GCPHN is building ‘one world class health system for the Gold Coast’ and we know we can’t do it alone. To achieve this goal, we work closely with diverse groups, sharing knowledge and skills, working to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our primary care system, ensuring it meets local needs.
The GCPHN aims to increase access and quality of health care provided, particularly for those at risk of poor health outcomes through:
- 1.Effective coordination and integration of local health services in collaboration with Gold Coast Health
- 2.Strategic commissioning of primary care and mental health services
- 3.Capacity-building and providing practice support to primary care and mental health providers.
Vision
Building one world class health system for the Gold Coast.
Values
Role Specification
The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for providing strategic leadership to GCPHN, managing overall operations, and ensuring effective corporate governance systems exist to achieve successful implementation of the Strategic Plan. Act as main point of communication between the board of directors and corporate operations.
The key accountabilities to the Board:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders including GPs, allied health, hospitals, community services, government bodies, and consumers.
- Lead and facilitate health system transformation by fostering deep integration and collaborative partnerships between primary care providers, the Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, specialist services, allied health, aged care, mental health, and community support organisations to create seamless and person-centred patient journeys.
- Champion and drive the development and implementation of targeted strategies to address health inequities and improve health outcomes for priority populations within the Gold Coast region, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, individuals with mental illness, older Australians, and other vulnerable groups.
- Spearhead the strategic adoption, implementation, and optimisation of digital health technologies and data analytics capabilities across the PHN and the broader primary care sector to enhance service delivery, improve health intelligence, support evidence-informed decision-making, and drive innovation in models of care.
- Lead the commissioning of health services to address identified community health needs and service gaps, based on robust needs assessments.
- Oversee a commissioning framework that prioritises value-based healthcare, achieves measurable health outcomes, ensures financial stewardship, and strategically addresses identified health needs and service gaps through innovative and evidence-based service models.
- Embed a culture of genuine consumer, carer, and community co-design and participation in all aspects of the PHN’s work, from needs assessment and strategic planning through to service design, implementation, and evaluation, ensuring services are responsive and person-centred.
- Ensure the establishment and maintenance of robust clinical and corporate governance frameworks that promote a culture of safety, quality improvement, and accountability across all PHN-funded services and internal operations, aligning with national standards and best practice.
- Ensure the financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and effective governance of the organisation.
- Represent the PHN and advocate for primary healthcare needs at various forums and serve as the principal advocate for the Gold Coast's primary healthcare needs, actively engaging with local, state, and federal government bodies and other key influencers to shape policy, secure resources, and advance the region's health agenda.
- Develop and lead a high-performing executive team and fostering a positive organisational culture.
- Lead the development and implementation of innovative strategies to support the recruitment, retention, and ongoing professional development of the primary care workforce, addressing current and future workforce challenges to ensure a sustainable and high-quality primary care sector for the Gold Coast.
- Enhance and drive the GCPHN brand and mission into the Gold Coast market to all external and internal stakeholders and the public by being transparent on all mediums of media and communications, commenting on our funding programs and storytelling.
- Report to the Board on strategic risks, opportunities and management approaches.
Within the context of the responsibilities described above, the ideal applicant will be someone who:
- Strategic direction - Develops and drives the organisation’s vision and strategic goals. Anticipates challenges and leads in the development of innovative solutions to optimise performance.
- Achieves results - Decisively leads to deliver a high-performing, outcomes-focused health service. Role models collaborative behaviour and displays a strong work ethic and resilience.
- Builds productive relationships - Fosters trust and collaboration within the organisation to achieve shared goals. Builds strong partnerships with a broad network of external stakeholders to facilitate aligned priorities.
- Displays personal drive and integrity - Role models judgement, initiative and professionalism and encourages these standards in others. Fosters personal and team growth and capability.
- Communicates with influence - Communicates complex information in a clear, articulate and compelling manner to engage and influence internal and external stakeholders.
The incumbent must have relevant tertiary qualifications.
- 1.Highly developed strategic leadership skills with experience leading organisations in strategy and policy development to achieve outcomes in a rapidly evolving environment.
- 2.Proven experience leading accountable organisations, with a strong focus on delivering value and achieving measurable improvements.
- 3.Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex organisational change effectively within a dynamic and evolving health policy environment, fostering a culture of adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning throughout the PHN.
- 4.Skilled in corporate governance with ability to implement effective governance systems at all levels of the organisation.
- 5.Strong business acumen with well-developed skills in financial and contract management.
- 6.Commitment to achieving better health and well-being outcomes for the Gold Coast community through collaborative leadership.
- 7.Ability to develop effective working relationships and partnerships with a broad range of stakeholders to achieve improvements in the health and well-being of the community.
- 8.Well versed in media and natural talent for public speaking and communications.
Desirable:
- 1.Knowledge and expertise in population health planning, service development and commissioning systems.
- 2.Understanding primary health care reform, emerging challenges, and strategies to secure the organisation’s long-term success.
- 3.Experience in digital health and leveraging technology to inform health policy and care delivery.
Personal Qualities:
- 1.Proactive and future-focused individual who anticipates challenges and opportunities.
- 2.Innovative and solutions-oriented approach.
- 3.Dynamic leadership style with the energy and drive to inspire teams and stakeholders.
- 4.Skilled communicator with an aptitude for media engagement and impactful messaging.
- Direct Reports: 5
- Annual Budget: $59 Million
This role reports directly to the Board of Directors through the Chairperson.
Direct Reports:
- Executive Director, Digital Insights and Performance
- Executive Director of Commissioning
- Finance Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- Executive Assistant
To be discussed with the Search Consultant.
- Lead transformational change following a long-standing CEO tenure, requiring the ability to balance continuity with a refreshed vision and reinvigorated leadership approach.
- Navigate a rapidly evolving primary care landscape, with PHNs expected to undergo significant reform, demanding strategic foresight and adaptability to reshape models of care and funding.
- Steer the organisation through market and policy uncertainty, providing clear direction, stability, and confidence to stakeholders, partners, and staff during periods of change.
- Unify and re-energise internal and external stakeholders, fostering trust, transparency, and collaboration while aligning diverse interests to a shared future strategy.
Service Location: Gold Coast
The closing date for applications is Sunday, 6th July 2025
The reference number to include in your application is H25_5165
Note: Please use the online platform to submit your application. It will not be accepted via email.
If you require assistance in submitting your application online, please get in touch with Executive Search Coordinator, Natasha Tirado: M: +61 (0)468 301 310 / E: ntirado@hardygroupintl.com
Your application must include:
- 1.Cover letter addressed to the Principal Consultant;
- 2.A written response addressing the key selection criteria; and
- 3.An up to date copy of your Curriculum Vitae.
It Is standard practice for HardyGroup to acknowledge receipt of your application no later than the next business day. We request that if you do not receive the acknowledgement, you contact the search coordinator listed above as soon as possible after the 24-hour business period and arrange to resend your application if necessary.
For a confidential discussion, please contact:
Paul Ingle
HardyGroup Chief Executive Officer
M. +61 (0)402 796 125
E. pingle@hardygroupintl.com
Rhodie Miller
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
M. +61 (0)422 816 557
E. rmiller@hardygroupintl.com
LIVING AND WORKING IN GOLD COAST
The Gold Coast offers a unique blend of vibrant city living and relaxed coastal lifestyle, making it one of Australia’s most desirable places to live and work. Known for its stunning beaches, lush hinterlands, and a warm, sunny climate year-round, the Gold Coast provides an exceptional quality of life. From hidden gems to iconic locations, the Gold Coast Experience Exchange is a place to share your stories and explore moments shared by others.
The Gold Coast is a place where iconic beaches, ancient rainforests, adrenaline-pumping theme parks, and a buzzing dining scene collide to create the ultimate holiday playground. Whether you're chasing waves, chasing thrills, or just chasing that next incredible meal, the Gold Coast has you covered. From the sunrise at Burleigh to fishing at Main Beach, soaking up the golden sands of Surfers Paradise to surfing alongside the pros at Coolangatta, this iconic coastline has it all.
The Gold Coast is also a hotspot for events. Think music festivals, endurance races, and world-class sports competitions. Swell Sculpture Festival transforms the beaches into open-air galleries while major surfing comps hit legendary breaks like Snapper Rocks and Coolangatta. Not into waves? The Supercars Gold Coast 500 takes over the streets, and the Magic Millions horse race brings glitz and glamour to Surfers Paradise.
For a nature reset, head inland to the lush Gold Coast Hinterland. Think charming wineries, misty rainforests, and waterfall-dotted bushwalks at Springbrook, Lamington, and Main Range National Parks.
The Gold Coast isn’t just about surf and sand - it’s rich in stories, too. Step into the past at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, where you can join a guided tour, see traditional artwork, and hear Dreamtime stories of Burleigh Headland (Jellurgal, the ‘Dreaming Mountain’).
Education
In parallel with the fast population growth of the Gold Coast, there has also been strong expansion in the quality and number of Gold Coast schools, both public and private. The Gold Coast is a fantastic place for tertiary study with Griffith University and the private Bond University both with excellent campuses here. There are also many TAFE campuses as well as other higher learning centres.
More Information:
https://www.goldcoastaustralia.com/gold-coast-education.html
ABOUT US
HardyGroup’s (HG) mission is simple
Find and Grow Great Leaders - and we have been doing exactly that for more than 30 years in public and private health, primary, community and aged care as well as the broader public service.
Our synergistic business model of Executive Search and Recruitment integrated with Executive Leadership and Learning is our unique point of difference.
It ensures our clients can count on us for the lifecycle of their organisations leadership journey and why we are regarded as the leading trans-Tasman partner agency by clients.
When engaging HG you can be confident in a deeply personalised experience and service as nothing matters more to us than relationships and results.