Singapore, Sep 30, 2009: Mr Simon Hearne, General Manager Health Care for 3M Australia, has been announced as the new Chair of the Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA). Mr Hearne was elected unanimously at a Board meeting on September 24, 2009 after current Chair Mr Gus Taddeo announced his intentions not to stand again.

 

“I’m looking forward to leading the Association’s Board at a time when government is considering significant healthcare reform. There will be some future challenges for the medical technology industry, particularly ensuring the benefits of health technology are accessible and valued,” said Mr Hearne.

 

Mr Simon Hearne has over 20 years experience in the healthcare sector, both in Australia and overseas. He gained extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry sector before making the change to medical technology. At 3M, Mr Hearne is responsible for the Health Care business including medical, dental and orthodontic products.

 

The announcement in the leadership of the Board was made at a meeting after the conclusion of the two day MTAA annual conference on ‘Enabling access to market for medical technology.’ The conference was held from September 23 – 24 in Sydney. As part of the program the Minister of Health Nicola Roxon delivered a keynote address to a record number of delegates and exhibitors.

 

Dr Bronwyn Evans, Senior Vice President Quality & Regulatory for Cochlear Limited and Jamie Stanistreet, Vice President of Medtronic Australia and New Zealand were appointed Deputy Chairs. Mick Trevaskis, Director Sales and Marketing from Device Technologies Australia was appointed Treasurer.

 

Phil Nicholl, Managing Director of Stryker South Pacific, and Dr Murthy Simhambhatla, General Manager for Abbott Vascular’s business in Australia and New Zealand were newly elected to the Board.