Top gong for hospital chief

ST John of God Health Care chief executive Michael Stanford has received the industry and commerce award at the 2010 WA Citizen of the Year Awards, announced last weekend.

One of 15 award recipients, Dr Stanford’s award recognised his leadership, vision and entrepreneurial skills.

The awards were first presented in 1973 and provide the community with an opportunity to honour the achievements and contribution of their fellow citizens. Other 2010 winners include: Fortescue Metals Group chief executive Andrew Forrest (governor’s award for regional development); Malcolm McCusker QC (community service award); and Nyoongar Community leader Richard Walley (indigenous leadership award).

St John of God Health Care is Australia’s largest not-for-profit health care group, which Dr Stanford acknowledges makes him an unusual choice for the award category.

“The benefit for our staff is that it puts a spring in their step knowing that the public places value on their work,” Dr Stanford said. “And personally, it drives me to achieve more for the community and justify the award.”

Since his appointment as chief executive in 2003, Dr Stanford has been instrumental in the organisation’s growth in revenue – which has doubled in the past five years – enabling redevelopment of current facilities and acquisitions in both Australia and New Zealand.

“[The award] confirms that St John of God Health Care has taken the pulse of community need and responded by providing appropriate services, often where significant gaps exist. I am confident of our continued success in both existing and new areas of health care,” Dr Stanford said.

He said the group’s commitment to high quality health care and a reputation for active involvement in the community sets it apart from its competitors. Yet he admits he’s had to make some tough decisions to maintain the upward trajectory, with a recent loss of the pathology contract for Hollywood Private Hospital meaning staff was let go.

“Australia is not out of the woods yet, economically,” Dr Stanford said. “However, we are engaged in talks with the government for the Midland public-private hospital and are excited about being involved in the public sector.”