The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Jeremy Rossaak, FRACS, as the new Aotearoa Censor, effective 1 July 2025.

Dr Rossaak brings a wealth of experience and leadership to this role, having assessed vocational registration applications since 2021. His strong background in surgical education and governance positions him well to support surgeons and Trainees across Aotearoa. He will also represent the Aotearoa New Zealand National Committee and work closely with the College on policy and professional standards.

As Aotearoa Censor, Dr Rossaak will:

• contribute to the development of education policy and uphold high standards in surgical training and assessment
• represent the Censor-in-Chief where delegated
• liaise with Te Kaunihera Rata o Aotearoa – Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) regarding vocational registration for International Medical Graduates (IMGs).

Dr Rossaak is a consultant surgeon at Tauranga Hospital and a senior lecturer at the University of Auckland. He holds a PhD from the University of Otago and has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, with more than 50 publications spanning surgical innovation, education, and clinical outcomes. His governance experience includes serving as Acting Chairperson of the Aotearoa NZ Committee in General Surgery and Chairperson of the Aotearoa NZ Training Sub-Committee.

We also take this opportunity to thank Dr Nigel Willis, FRACS, for his outstanding nine years of service as Aotearoa Censor. During his tenure, Dr Willis provided steady leadership, particularly through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. His guidance saw a smooth transition from in-person to virtual interviews for vocational registration—a change that has had lasting benefits for applicants and assessors alike.

Dr Willis leaves behind a legacy of innovation, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the profession. His contributions have left a lasting mark on the College and the surgical community across Aotearoa.

Please join us in welcoming Dr Jeremy Rossaak to his new role and thanking Dr Nigel Willis for his years of dedicated service and leadership.