Introducing the new Chair of the RACS Board

Professor Owler is a Sydney-based neurosurgeon and researcher, with particular interest in the fields of hydrocephalus, brain tumours and deep brain stimulation surgery. He is previous President of both the Federal and NSW Australian Medical Association (AMA) and has been actively involved in public health advocacy. At RACS, he is a member of the Section of Academic Surgery and is involved in surgical education and training.

RACS' skills-based Board was established in 2024 and is responsible for overseeing the business of the College, including finance, audit, risk and operations. The Board includes the President and Vice President, three Fellow directors appointed for their governance experience and skills, and two independent directors who bring expertise in governance, finance and audit. Recruitment is underway for a third independent director.

Importantly, Fellows will always hold the majority of Board positions and, under the Constitution, the Chair must always be a Fellow.

Professor Owler joins Fellow directors Dr Cathy Ferguson and Immediate Past-President Professor Owen Ung, who was appointed to a casual vacancy this year to help provide continuity. Professor Ung has played an integral role in the evolution of RACS' governance, serving as Board Chair throughout the transition period and chairing the inaugural Board. The College thanks him for his leadership and stewardship during this important time.

We congratulate Professor Owler on his election as Chair and look forward to working with him and the Board as they continue to support the College's strategic priorities and future direction.