Executive Director Operations
Executive Director Operations
Contract Type:
Location: Sydney
Industry: Healthcare & Medical
Contact Name: Rob Macmillan
Contact Email: rmacmillan@derwentsearch.com.au
Contact Phone: 0421 593 535
Date Published: 21-Oct-2026
Executive Director Operations
Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health
Elevate operational performance and support the delivery of world-class care across one of Australia's largest and most diverse health districts.
About Western Sydney Local Health District
Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) delivers comprehensive healthcare to over a million people across Western Sydney, one of Australia’s most vibrant and diverse communities. With 14,000 staff, a budget of $2.9bn and more than 70 sites, WSLHD is a leader in clinical service delivery, research and education. Its reach runs from the Westmead Health Precinct, Auburn and Cumberland Hospitals to the fast-growing communities of Blacktown and Mount Druitt. As the population grows, the District is expanding capacity at Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals and building the new Rouse Hill Hospital to serve the north of the District.
The Operations Directorate oversees this breadth of activity, leading the hospitals, Integrated and Community Health, Drug Health, Oral Health, Mental Health Services and Clinical Networks which deliver world class care for the community.
About the Role
Following the recent appointment of the District’s new Chief Executive, Alison Zecchin, WSLHD is now seeking an exceptional Executive Director Operations to lead clinical operations and performance across the District, and shape its next phase of growth. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will:
About You
You’re a senior health executive who thrives on complexity and challenge. With extensive leadership experience in a substantial, complex organisation delivering health services, you bring the strategic insight and executive presence to lead operations across a district of this scale.
You’re a natural collaborator who builds trust with clinicians, general managers, operations staff, government and community partners, and engages diverse teams behind a shared vision. You demonstrate strong financial acumen, excellent governance capabilities, and the ability to balance day-to-day operations with long-term strategy. Most importantly, you understand that great health services are built on collaboration, innovation and an unwavering focus on patient-centred care. You're ready to step into this complex, high profile role and truly impact the communities of Western Sydney.
This represents a wonderful opportunity to join the executive leadership team of this thriving community and health service during an exciting phase of transformation and growth.
For a copy of the Candidate Information Pack, please click on the "Additional Information" button to download a copy of the Candidate Information Pack. For more information, please contact Rob Macmillan, Partner at healthservices@derwentsearch.com.au quoting reference number 35025.
To be eligible for this position, candidates must hold current working rights in Australia.
Applications close – Sunday 8th November
Additional Information
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Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health
Elevate operational performance and support the delivery of world-class care across one of Australia's largest and most diverse health districts.
About Western Sydney Local Health District
Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) delivers comprehensive healthcare to over a million people across Western Sydney, one of Australia’s most vibrant and diverse communities. With 14,000 staff, a budget of $2.9bn and more than 70 sites, WSLHD is a leader in clinical service delivery, research and education. Its reach runs from the Westmead Health Precinct, Auburn and Cumberland Hospitals to the fast-growing communities of Blacktown and Mount Druitt. As the population grows, the District is expanding capacity at Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals and building the new Rouse Hill Hospital to serve the north of the District.
The Operations Directorate oversees this breadth of activity, leading the hospitals, Integrated and Community Health, Drug Health, Oral Health, Mental Health Services and Clinical Networks which deliver world class care for the community.
About the Role
Following the recent appointment of the District’s new Chief Executive, Alison Zecchin, WSLHD is now seeking an exceptional Executive Director Operations to lead clinical operations and performance across the District, and shape its next phase of growth. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will:
- Provide strategic advice and counsel to the Chief Executive, the broader executive team and the Board.
- As a member of the District executive leadership team and in consultation with the Chief Executive, lead and deliver strategic and operational plans, policy development, business strategy and clinical service design.
- Provide executive leadership and oversight of the hospitals and health services across the District, through 12 direct reports.
- Elevate financial and operational performance, with shared responsibility for a $2.9bn budget.
- Lead diverse stakeholder relationships including with clinicians, academics, support staff, NSW Ministry of Health, PHNs, NGOs, and other key partners.
- Foster a culture of innovation, quality improvement and patient safety which delivers world-class health services for patients, families and the broader community.
About You
You’re a senior health executive who thrives on complexity and challenge. With extensive leadership experience in a substantial, complex organisation delivering health services, you bring the strategic insight and executive presence to lead operations across a district of this scale.
You’re a natural collaborator who builds trust with clinicians, general managers, operations staff, government and community partners, and engages diverse teams behind a shared vision. You demonstrate strong financial acumen, excellent governance capabilities, and the ability to balance day-to-day operations with long-term strategy. Most importantly, you understand that great health services are built on collaboration, innovation and an unwavering focus on patient-centred care. You're ready to step into this complex, high profile role and truly impact the communities of Western Sydney.
This represents a wonderful opportunity to join the executive leadership team of this thriving community and health service during an exciting phase of transformation and growth.
For a copy of the Candidate Information Pack, please click on the "Additional Information" button to download a copy of the Candidate Information Pack. For more information, please contact Rob Macmillan, Partner at healthservices@derwentsearch.com.au quoting reference number 35025.
To be eligible for this position, candidates must hold current working rights in Australia.
Applications close – Sunday 8th November
