Royal Flying Doctor Service gives wings to new CEO

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has appointed Rebecca Tomkinson as chief executive, succeeding Grahame Marshall who resigned in September after six years in the role.

Ms Tomkinson brings a different set of skills to the role, moving from MercyCare in the position of executive director of aged care services.

This is in contrast to Mr Marshall, who had come from a banking and legal background.

RFDS chairman Samuel Walsh said Ms Tomkinson’s appointment was pivotal to the advancement of the organisation’s strategic and operational direction.

“Rebecca’s experience in strategic partnerships and transformational change across sectors will be crucial to future-proofing aero medical service and patient outcomes in WA,” he said.

Ms Tomkinson is chair of the Wheatbelt Development Commission and holds a number of board and advisory member positions within government and the not-for-profit sector.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service is a Western Australian icon and an essential part of daily life, Ms Tomkinson said.

“I am truly honoured to be leading the organisation into a new era that will directly benefit the health and safety of communities across the state,” she said.

Ms Tomkinson will commence as chief executive at RFDS in February 2018.