Jane Scotcher to retire as CEO of WCH Foundation; Verity Gobbett to step into the role

In a significant leadership transition, the Women’s & Children’s Hospital Foundation (WCH Foundation) announced the retirement of its long-serving CEO, Jane Scotcher, and the appointment of Verity Gobbett, the WCH Foundation’s current Head of Mission, as its new CEO, effective 20 December 2024.

After an extraordinary 50-year career in healthcare, Jane leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and tireless dedication to advancing community health and wellbeing. Verity, who has been instrumental in shaping the WCH Foundation’s mission, will now take the helm, poised to lead the organisation into an exciting new chapter of innovation and impact for women and children’s health in South Australia.

Reflecting on her career, Jane shared, “I have had a privileged career, from my foundation learning in nursing to management roles in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors which I loved. My key lessons include being honest with yourself, bringing kindness and compassion into the workplace, and understanding the importance of balance.”

“As a CEO, building a strong team and fostering a positive culture are crucial for achieving the best results and I am proud of what I have been able to achieve with the talented team here at the WCH Foundation.”

Jane’s tenure at the WCH Foundation has been marked by her dedication to building relationships and impacting the community statewide, emphasising the importance of equity and access to healthcare. She has strongly advocated for a holistic approach to family health and wellbeing that aligns with the Women’s and Children’s Health Network’s vision for healthy communities where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Jane reflects that her proudest achievements as CEO include founding the Laklinyeri Beach House in 2019, South Australia first purpose-built holiday home for families of children with complex medical needs or in palliative care, and doubling the WCH Foundation’s investment into health and medical research in 2023 by establishing the Bloom Research Program to tackle priority areas of maternal and paediatric health.

Jane thanks the WCH Foundation Board for their incredible leadership and support throughout her time.

WCH Foundation Chair, Michael Luchich, in return expressed his gratitude to Jane, stating, “We thank Jane for her dedication and exemplary leadership of the WCH Foundation. Her unwavering commitment and passion have been instrumental in driving our mission forward. I have been fortunate to work with her for the past 5 years, witnessing firsthand her ability to inspire and lead with integrity and compassion.”

“Jane’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the WCH Foundation and the community we serve. We wish her the very best in her future endeavours and are confident that her legacy will continue to inspire us all.”

The Board, which conducted a rigorous search process attracting more than 80 candidates, expressed confidence that Verity’s leadership will continue to drive the WCH Foundation’s vision forward, ensuring a lasting impact on the families it serves.

Michael said, “We are excited to welcome Verity Gobbett as the new CEO. Verity, currently the WCH Foundation’s Head of Mission, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the role.”

“Verity’s ability to build strong relationships and her innovative approach to addressing complex challenges will undoubtedly drive the WCH Foundation forward in its mission to support the health and wellbeing of women, children and families across South Australia.”

Verity said, “The opportunity to lead the WCH Foundation, which plays such a crucial role in making a difference in the lives of children and families, is both a privilege and a responsibility, and one that I am proud to accept.”

“The organisation has achieved so much in recent years. Last financial year we celebrated our largest year of impact on record, and I am confident that with the guidance of our Board, our amazing team, and our community, we will continue on our trajectory for even greater success.”