HeartKids, Australia’s only charity dedicated to helping families affected by congenital heart disease (CHD), has appointed Lesley Jordan as CEO to lead the charity into a new era of growth and development. HeartKids is a not-for-profit organisation that supports families affected by CHD. With eight children born and diagnosed with CHD in Australia every day, and four sadly passing away each week, HeartKids’ mission is more important than ever.
What does Lesley bring to his new role at HeartKids?
Lesley has been with HeartKids since January 2023 as interim Chief Executive Officer and has now accepted an extension of her contract until July 2025, ensuring HeartKids has the stability and continuity it needs to achieve its goals. Lesley’s extensive executive experience across government, for-profit, and for-purpose sectors spanning over 20 years is a testament to her wealth of knowledge and expertise, which she now brings to HeartKids.
Lesley’s background as a former nurse and midwife offers a critical clinical expertise that will prove invaluable to the organisation in achieving its mission. As a mother of three adult daughters, including one who was diagnosed with a neural tube defect at the age of four and a half, Lesley’s unique level of empathy and understanding is invaluable to the role of CEO.
What does the appointment mean for HeartKids?
Commenting on the appointment, Elizabeth Foley, Chair of HeartKids, said, “On behalf of the entire HeartKids’ organisation, I’d like to congratulate Lesley on her appointment as CEO.”
“Lesley has a proven track record of success in the health and community sectors, and we are confident that her expertise and leadership will enable HeartKids to continue to grow and deliver vital services to families affected by congenital heart disease,” Elizabeth Foley added.
In the coming months, Lesley will oversee the launch of the new Standards for Care for childhood-onset heart disease. Lesley Jordan will work to align HeartKids’ services with these standards and expand the service offerings to the congenital heart disease community.
