Mr Sean Birgan will take up the position of Chief Executive at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) following a four-month secondment to the role.
Mackay Hospital and Health Board Interim Chair Monica McKendry made the announcement today, welcoming Mr Birgan for a five-year appointment.
“Mackay HHS has benefitted greatly from Sean’s extensive leadership experience since he joined us as Chief Executive in an interim capacity in October,” Ms McKendry said.
“I am very pleased to announce today that, following an extensive recruitment process, Sean has been selected to lead our health service, and he will begin his appointment as Chief Executive on 2 February 2026.
“Sean has a proven record of leading health services through periods of change and strengthening both governance and service delivery.
“His experience, commitment to patient-centred care, and collaborative leadership style will be a great asset to Mackay HHS and the communities we serve.”
Mr Birgan said he was honoured to take on the permanent role.
“I am delighted to join Mackay HHS and to continue working alongside the dedicated clinicians and staff who deliver outstanding care across this region,” Mr Birgan said.
“Since stepping into the role in an interim capacity in recent months, I have seen our teams implement practical initiatives that increased services, streamlined patient flow and strengthened capacity across our hospitals and community services.
“I look forward to building on this to ensure we continue delivering safe, high-quality healthcare for our communities.”
Mr Birgan has taken up the appointment after three years as Chief Executive of North West Hospital and Health Service, based in Mt Isa.
He has more than 40 years of nursing experience, including 20 years in senior leadership and management roles.
Sean was Queensland Health's COVID-19 System Response Lead, coordinating the state’s COVID-19 operational response.
He also has a keen interest in disaster management and preparedness and provides ongoing support to Indonesian nurses and health executives in Bali as part of the Bali Memorial Package.