Vision 2020 Australia is pleased to announce that Ms Patricia Sparrow will be the next Chief Executive Officer of Vision 2020 Australia, commencing in the role on 27 September 2021.
Ms Sparrow joins from the peak body for non-profit aged care providers, Aged and Community Services Australia (ACSA) where she has been CEO for the past five years.
Prior to this Patricia worked in consumer health advocacy, in departmental roles and as a senior adviser to Federal Government ministers.
Vision 2020 Australia Chair The Hon Christopher Pyne welcomed Ms Sparrow’s appointment as exciting news for the eye health and vision care sector.
“Her experience, alongside a deep understanding and passion for health equity means she is well placed to deliver for our members.
“She is very experienced at political and policy advocacy, having steered ACSA through the most turbulent period in its history including the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
“This combination of expertise, strategic acumen and strong national networks will allow her to continue and expand our organisation’s influence,” Mr Pyne said.
Mr Pyne also paid tribute to outgoing CEO Judith Abbott, who has been in the role since June 2018.
“Judith has led Vision 2020 Australia with clarity, purpose and enthusiasm through a period of considerable change.
“Her contributions to the sector have been highly valued by members, funders and other partners, and on behalf of the Board I wish her all the best as she moves into the next phase of her career,” he said.
Outgoing CEO Judith Abbott will finish on 3 September 2021, with Ms Maureen O’Keefe taking up the role of Interim CEO over September to support a smooth transition.