Biography
Deb Willcox AM is currently the Chief Executive of the Sydney Local Health District (SLHD). Her impressive career has included roles in both government and non-government organisations, and her experience spans clinical, corporate services, government departments, the research environment and senior government advisor roles.
Before taking on the leadership of SLHD in 2024, Deb served as the Deputy Secretary of Health System Strategy and Patient Experience at the Ministry of Health, with statewide responsibility for areas including mental health, capital planning, patient experience, Commonwealth and State relations, health and social policy and allied health, where she achieved remarkable milestones. Deb was Chief Executive, Northern Sydney Local Health District from 2017 to 2022. From 2015 to 2017 Deb held the combined role of Director of Operations, Sydney Local Health District and General Manager, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.
Prior to NSW Health, Deb held senior positions in government, including Chief of Staff in the portfolios of Planning, Housing and Aboriginal Affairs and Advisor to the Deputy Premier and Minister for Health, overseeing clinical portfolio areas including planned surgery, critical care and emergency departments.
Deb started her career in nursing at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and later studied law, having been admitted as a Legal Practitioner in New South Wales.
Deb received a Member of the Order (AM) in the 2023 Australia Day Honours for her significant service to health administration and to the community.