Royal Australasian College of Physicians to appoint first CIO

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) is in the process of appointing its first chief information officer ahead of a major IT program of work.

The Australian medical college for training doctors is embarking on “a significant program” of IT investment over the next five years that will be overseen by the new CIO.

The college recently hired former CPA Australia program director David Bough on an interim basis to hold the CIO role while a “permanent candidate” was sought.

An RACP spokesperson confirmed to iTnews that the CIO role is newly created "to provide strategic direction and leadership for all aspects of information technology."

“The college is embarking on a significant program of IT investment over the next five years to grow member engagement and satisfaction, improve the digital experience of our members, and support members’ provision of healthcare to patients and communities, and the CIO will oversee all operational aspects of that program," the spokesperson said.

The RACP added that Bough recently oversaw a multi-year digital transformation process while at CPA.

According to a now-expired job advertisement, the person appointed to the role will “support [the] development of IT strategic plan and oversee its implementation”.

In addition, they will be tasked with developing a digital strategy and enabling data-driven improvement; overseeing design, implementation, and maintenance of technology infrastructure; leading the adoption and integration of new digital technologies and ensuring understanding of the college’s technological environment and requirements.

The advertisement stated that the desired candidate needed to have expertise in IT infrastructure management, cyber security, data analytics and digital transformation.