A fit-for-purpose curriculum and assessment pathway is crucial to equip our members with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate an ever-evolving mental health landscape.

When the role of Executive Manager, Education and Training became vacant, it was an opportunity for us to consider, consult and reimagine the position to better align with our goals, and set the College up for future success.

I’m pleased to share that we have now commenced recruitment for the newly created position of Executive Dean of Education.

While similar roles exist in other medical colleges, the responsibilities and scope of the Dean position can vary from one organisation to another. The RANZCP’s Executive Dean of Education will replace the Executive Manager, Education and Training role and play a pivotal role in leading the College’s education portfolio, including the development and delivery of innovative programs, strategies, and policies.

Working closely with the Board, CEO, committees, and the education taskforce, the Executive Dean will drive the revision of the Fellowship Program and ensure the College’s education programs are contemporary, inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of trainees, Fellows, and the wider profession.

We’re seeking a registered medical specialist with extensive experience working within large education or training organisations in governance, accreditation and change management. This will be combined with a strong understanding of postgraduate assessment processes and the regulatory frameworks shaping professional education. 

If you or someone you know might be an ideal fit, then I encourage you to explore further and consider applying by Friday 19 September.

Financial governance

As part of our ongoing commitment to strong independent oversight and continuous improvement in governance, I am pleased to announce the College will appoint an independent non-member to our Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee.

The Committee plays a vital role in advising the Board, providing robust oversight, risk intelligence and assurance of financial sustainability. The independent non-member will bring high-level expertise in corporate finance and risk management, helping the College maintain rigorous and forward-looking financial stewardship.

Board constituent committees, such as the Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee, are critical to ensuring the integrity and sustainability of our operations. By bringing in external expertise, we are prioritising sound management and transparency in all our financial practices.

Expressions of interest for this role are scheduled to be posted to LinkedIn and Ethical Jobs on Monday 8 September.

Independent Board position

As members may know, the Board initiated an external evaluation of its own governance structures. In line with its recommendations, the Board will soon appoint an Independent Director to strengthen the objectivity of our governance and provide constructive challenge to management.

This role is designed to complement the strengths of our Board by enhancing independence and accountability. The Independent Director will offer an unbiased perspective and support the Board’s strategic development as we work to develop a five-year Strategic Plan 2026–30. I’ll share further details about this role in due course.

These steps are a key part of our broader strategy to ensure the College remains in a strong position to not only meet the challenges of today, but also anticipate future opportunities and risks, and continue delivering on our shared vision.

New Zealand Conference

This weekend I am excited to be returning to Aotearoa New Zealand for a Board meeting and the annual RANZCP New Zealand Conference. Congratulations the organising committee for producing a stellar program.

I spent many formative years of my career in New Zealand and am looking forward to reuniting with familiar faces and meeting new people.

As always, I welcome your views. You can write to me at president@ranzcp.org.

Dr Astha Tomar 

President