Management team

Stephen Roberts – Chief Executive Officer

Stephen was appointed Chief Executive Officer at St John of God Geelong Hospital in 1991.

His previous appointments include Chief Executive at St John of God Health Care, Goulburn and Chief Clerk at Tamworth Base Hospital.

He holds a Bachelor in Business (CSU), Bachelor of Health Administration (UNSW) and is a Graduate of the Mt Eliza Management College Executive Development program. Stephen is the Chair and Director of the Board at GenU since 2014. 

Taanya Widdicombe – Director of Corporate and Service Development

Taanya was appointed Director of Corporate and Service Development in October 2014.

Her previous appointments include Director of Hospital Redevelopment and Community Development Manager with the St John of God Foundation.

Michael Desmond – Director of Medical Services

Michael is a Renal/General Physician who has a strong interest in safety and quality and patient-centred care.

He has a PhD in renal medicine and prior to taking up his current role was the Director of General Medicine at University Hospital Geelong (UHG).

In addition to the role of Director of Medical Services, Michael continues to work in clinical medicine at St John of God, UHG and in outpatient renal services.

Matthew Young – Director of Nursing

Matthew was appointed as Director of Nursing in August 2022.

He has over 10 years of experience in nursing and an extensive leadership background working in private healthcare roles. 

Matthew holds a Masters in Leadership (ML), Diploma of Leadership and Management, Post Grad Critical Care Nursing (ICU) and working towards a Masters in Business Administration.

Luke Edwards – Director of Finance

Luke returned to St John of God Geelong Hospital in 2022 where he was appointed Director of Finance, having previously worked at the hospital from 2012 to 2020.

Luke is a member of CPA Australia with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Deakin University and has held a number of executive roles in both finance and CEO in the private health sector.

Mara McDonald – Director of Mission Integration

Mara was appointed Director of Mission Integration in July 2020.

Her previous role includes Head of Learning, Development and Culture.

Mara holds post graduate qualifications in Organisational Change and Behaviour as well as Leadership and Executive Coaching and has completed a commerce degree.