Debbie Shiell has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer of Ovarian Cancer Australia (OCA), the leading independent charity supporting women and those impacted by this gynaecological cancer.
Shiell brings over 20 years of experience in the NFP sector, having held influential leadership roles at the Austin Health Foundation, Monash Health Foundation, Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation and Interplast Australia & New Zealand.
She has dedicated decades of her career to the healthcare sector. During her tenure as Fundraising Director at Monash Health Foundation, Shiells led the campaign to raise millions for the new Monash Children’s Hospital.
Recently, Shiell led the philanthropy at Austin Health and worked closely with Dame Olivia Newton-John at the ONJ Cancer & Wellness Centre where she raised awareness and funds to support people with cancer.
Shiell said she was honoured to be invited by Olivia Newton-John’s family to speak at Olivia’s State memorial, sharing in her speech that she knows in her heart, cancer is more than just a physical journey, as it requires support for the body, mind and spirit.
Most recently, Shiell has been the founder and director of LOHK Consulting, providing leadership coaching and consulting in communications, philanthropy and culture.
Shiell brings this extensive expertise and leadership background into her new position of CEO as Ovarian Cancer Australia develops its 2030 vision.
“I feel like all of the experiences in my personal and professional life have culminated in leading me here,” said Shiell about her new CEO position.
“This role feels more like a calling than a role, and I want to play my part in supporting and leading the team that serves our women. I want to play my part in the legacy that is Ovarian Cancer Australia.”
Reflecting on Shiells’ appointment, Meghan Speers, Chair of Ovarian Cancer Australia’s Board, shared: “We are excited to have Debbie lead Ovarian Cancer Australia through its next phase.”
“She brings a wealth of experience in the NFP and health sector and has been responsible for driving significant financial growth across her career in fundraising. Debbie is passionate about the treatment of cancer as being a holistic journey of care, which is well aligned with the role Ovarian Cancer Australia holds”.