Macular Disease Foundation Australia has appointed Dr Kathy Chapman to the role of Chief Executive Officer. She commenced in the role on 18 July 2022.
Dr Chapman has diverse experience as a dynamic and respected senior leader and CEO in the for-purpose sector, including public health and promoting inclusion for people with disabilities. Her executive career traverses key organisations such the Heart Foundation of Australia, Down Syndrome NSW, Cancer Council NSW, and the NSW Council of Social Services.
Dr Kathy Chapman, CEO of Macular Disease Foundation Australia.
An influential and decisive leader, Dr Chapman has significant experience setting and delivering on strategy, as well as scaling public health and advocacy programs to support the community. Her success in advocacy and leadership of preventative health prevention programs perfectly positions her for the role with MDFA which is committed to people living with or at risk of macular disease.
“I am excited by the opportunity to lead the next phase of growth for MDFA and make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with macular disease and at risk of blindness,” said Dr Chapman.
“My grandmother lived with age-related macular degeneration so I understand how this condition can the negatively impact on the quality of life for a person and for the people that care for them. There were no treatment options available when my grandmother was alive, so I am committed to advancing better treatment outcomes for patients and their families.”
Dr Chapman holds a PhD in public health nutrition and began her career as a dietitian. She is a Board Director at Healthy Kids Association and holds honorary academic appointments with the University of Sydney and University of Newcastle.
MDFA Chair, Mr Graeme Head, AO, stated, “The Board is delighted to have attracted someone as talented as Kathy to continue our strong tradition of prevention and early detection, patient support, advocacy, and research, and build upon the outstanding work that is delivered by our staff and volunteers every day. We are confident that in Kathy we have found someone who will lead the organisation with innovation, distinction, and integrity.”
About Macula Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA)
MDFA is the peak national body representing the voice of the macular disease community. It is committed to reducing the incidence and impact of macular disease, the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia. It provides a range of information and support services via its National Helpline 1800 111 709 and website www.mdfoundation.com.au.
About macular disease
Macular disease covers a range of painless conditions that affect the central retina (the macula) at the back of the eye. The most common are age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR), including diabetic macular oedema (DMO). AMD accounts for 50 per cent of blindness in Australia. One in seven (approximately 1.4 million) Australians over the age of 50 have some evidence of AMD.
Contact MDFA
Leonie Walton
General Manager, Marketing and Fundraising, Macular Disease Foundation Australia
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (02) 8268 8401 or 1800 111 709
