Ward6 CEO + founding partner Stuart Black appointed chair of Communications Council Healthcare Commitee replacing Ian Willoughby

The Healthcare Communications Council (HCC) is welcoming Stuart Black (left) CEO and founding partner of Ward6, as incoming chair, taking over from outgoing chairman Ian Willoughby (Kingston Lifeblood).

Black has been involved in the committee for many years, recognising the need and role the membership group plays within the wider industry.

With the support of the group, Black plans to focus on amplifying the agency voice within the sector.

Says Black: “There are many stakeholders trying to be heard in this business and not all share our perspective on the role of creativity when communicating to our various audiences. We need to be balanced and fair but that should never mean dull. Our challenge is to inspire our clients as well as all those who come into contact with our work.”

Black also thanked former chair Willoughby, who will remain on the committee, representing the needs of agencies in medical education and communications.

Says Black: “Ian has contributed enormously to the development of the group’s objectives. His enthusiasm and commitment to raising the profile of creativity and effectiveness in healthcare marketing has been fantastic.” 

Black will be supported by committee members Jack Blakey (Sudler & Hennessey), Mike Cocks (H&T), Graham Edwards (Ogilvy Healthworld), Andrew Gill (H&T Melbourne), Mardi Le Page (Ursa Clemenger), Steve Robson (H&T), Louie Skinner (Publicis Healthcare Communications Group), Will Collie (Edelman) and Amanda Fuller (DDB Remedy) and Ian Willoughby (Kingston Lifeblood).

Consisting of leading healthcare marketing communications agencies, the Committee provides a voice for healthcare agencies in the marketing communications sector. The group runs a program of self-regulatory and mandatory code training for agency staff and healthcare marketers. The group works in partnership with healthcare regulatory bodies and carries a vote on the Therapeutic Goods Administration Code Council. The group has published best practice tools such as pitching guidelines for healthcare marketers and healthcare salary surveys. It is also a supporter of the local healthcare communications excellence awards; the Bravo! Awards recognising the Australasian finalists of the Global Awards.

All members of the group are committed to the Healthcare Communications Council Charter which aims to set the highest standards in the development of Healthcare Communications.