The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) Board is pleased to announce it has appointed Rob LoPresti as Chief Executive Officer.

Rob brings strong capability in education, governance and policy, and extensive leadership experience gained from senior positions across academia, public health, and membership, including Austin Health, University of Melbourne and most recently the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).  

Rob holds a Master of Management from the University of Melbourne, though was originally educated as a physiotherapist, and has previously served the APA in voluntary leadership positions. This unique combination of executive experience coupled with meaningful insight into the challenges and opportunity facing the physiotherapy profession makes Rob exceptionally placed to take the reins at the APA and lead the organisation to ongoing success.

Chair of the APA Board, Mark Round, said Rob consistently stood out throughout the robust recruitment process, impressing the interview panel with his strategic mindset, well-honed leadership expertise, understanding of the opportunity for physiotherapy in the healthcare landscape, and commitment to advancing the APAs well-respected organisational culture.

In readiness to join the APA, Rob says, “I am incredibly motivated to lead the APA to achieve its goals and progress its strategy. As a physiotherapist myself, I’m passionate about the profession and excited by the opportunity to represent our members and advance the role of physiotherapy and the value it delivers in Australia’s healthcare system."

Rob will depart his position as Chief Education Officer at the RACGP. The APA has great respect for the RACGP, and the work Rob has delivered to evolve their education strategy. We wish the RACGP well in their search for a replacement. Rob will support a transition away from the RACGP and will commence with the APA on 3 June 2024.