11 April 2018 

She is to replace Mr Tony Howarth AO, who is stepping down after 14 years of leadership. Her appointment takes effect from 1 May 2018.

Mrs Sanderson has extensive experience in business and public service, and will shortly conclude a three and a half year term as Governor of Western Australia.

She was previously a member of the St John of God Health Care board from 2012 until 2014, during which time she chaired the Audit & Risk Committee and served on other Committees.

Making the announcement, Ms Skira said that Ms Sanderson was ideally suited to take up the position.

“Kerry has excellent credentials to lead our organisation as we continue in our Mission to offer hospitality, hope and healing through the care we provide. She has an impeccable record for service to the community at the most senior levels in Western Australia.

“She has extensive board experience, including at St John of God Health Care, and her existing knowledge and experience of the organisation will allow her to assist a new incoming Group CEO, following the departure of Dr Michael Stanford.”

Dr Stanford announced his intention to resign and take up a non-executive career earlier this year, and left St John of God Health Care on 21 March.

Mrs Sanderson said she was looking forward to working with the St John of God Health Care Trustees and Board, and the incoming Group CEO.

“St John of God Health Care is an iconic healthcare institution with a long tradition and I’m delighted to be returning to the board as Chair,” she said.

Ms Skira thanked outgoing Chair Tony Howarth for his service to St John of God Health Care.

“Tony has been a dynamic Chair and led the board with vision and dedication. He leaves behind a strong and committed board. Under his stewardship, St John of God Health Care has grown significantly to become a major player in the national health sector.”

Mr Howarth said that he was confident he was leaving the organisation in good shape.

“St John of God Health Care has been through a major growth trajectory and is one of Australia’s leading healthcare providers,” he said.

“Kerry is a highly experienced and very capable director and I know I leave this great organisation in good hands.”

St John of God Health Care is the largest Catholic sector hospital services provider and the third largest non-Government hospital operator in Australia. It was established by the Sisters of St John of God in 1898 and has 23 divisions, including 17 hospitals, with more than 3,350 beds. In 2016-17, it treated more than 350,000 overnight and same day patients, and delivered more than 12,500 babies.

St John of God Health Care has grown significantly and is now the 20th largest private company in Australia, employing more than 14,000 caregivers.