Heart Foundation welcomes new CEO

Media release: 30 March, 2022

The National Chair of the Heart Foundation, Mr Chris Leptos AM, is pleased to announce Mr David Lloyd as the Foundation’s incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Currently the CEO at South Australian ImmunoGENomics Cancer Institute, Mr Lloyd brings with him a career focussed on cultural and strategic leadership in complex environments in healthcare, medical research, and higher education.

Mr Leptos said David has spent over 25 years in leadership roles in the for-purpose sector and is the right person to take the Heart Foundation forward at this juncture.

“The Heart Foundation is facing record demand from the Australian community for advice on heart healthy‑ living, as well as a greater focus on heart related medical research.

“Since its inception the Heart Foundation has invested over $650 million in heart research. Our mission is to be at the forefront of improving the heart-health of all Australians,” Mr Leptos said.

“The Board conducted an international search to find Mr Lloyd, who will spearhead our strategy and our work on behalf of the wider community and stakeholder networks,” Mr Leptos said.

Mr Lloyd said he was excited to be leading the organisation into its next phase of growth.

“Since 1959 the Heart Foundation has been pioneering heart health education, research and campaigns – it is a national treasure,” Mr Lloyd said.

Mr Leptos warmly thanked the Heart Foundation’s Chief Medical Adviser, Professor Garry Jennings AO, for stepping in as interim CEO during the recruitment process.

Professor Jennings welcomed Mr Lloyd to the Heart Foundation.

“I know Mr Lloyd will make his mark and continue the proud history of the Heart Foundation,” Professor Jennings said.

Mr Lloyd will start the role in June.