The Leukaemia Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor John Seymour to its Board, effective immediately.
With more than three decades of world-class leadership in haematology, research and patient care, Professor Seymour brings exceptional clinical and translational expertise to the Leukaemia Foundation Board – a major asset as we work to accelerate progress in blood cancer treatment, care and outcomes.
Professor Seymour is an internationally recognised haematologist who until recently led the Haematology Department at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Holding MBBS, FRACP, PhD and fellowship of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (FAHMS), Professor Seymour continues to contribute as an Honorary Professorial Fellow at the University of Melbourne Department of Medicine.
He also co-chaired Australia’s National Blood Cancer Taskforce alongside Leukaemia Foundation CEO, Chris Tanti, and in 2015 was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant service to haematology.
Professor Seymour’s career reflects a deep commitment to patient-centred care, equitable access to world-class treatment, and translating research discoveries into real-world outcomes.
As a new member of the Leukaemia Foundation Board, Professor Seymour will play a pivotal role in helping guide the organisations strategic direction, whilst driving innovation, improving care and treatment standards and ensuring every Australian diagnosed with a blood cancer receives the best possible chance of survival and quality of life.
“We are deeply honoured to welcome Professor Seymour to the Leukaemia Foundation Board,” said Lucio Di Giallonardo, Leukaemia Foundation Board Chair.
“His expertise, clinical insight, research leadership and dedication to equitable care will be fundamental as we intensify our mission to transform blood cancer outcomes for all Australians.”
With blood cancer incidence and mortality on track to be the leading cancer in Australia by 2035, Professor Seymour’s appointment comes at a crucial time.
“Blood cancer incidence is rising, and more Australians than ever are living with the disease and its long-term impacts,” said Mr Di Giallonardo.
“Strong leadership and insights are therefore critical to improve patient outcomes and close the gaps in access to the best treatment and care across Australia.”
With Professor Seymour’s guidance, the Leukaemia Foundation will be even better positioned to:
- Accelerate translation of cutting-edge research into standard clinical practice;
- Advocate for equitable access to advanced treatments and support services regardless of where people live;
- Strengthen collaboration with clinicians, researchers and policymakers to improve care, early diagnosis, survivorship and long-term outcomes;
- Ensure the Leukaemia Foundation remains at the forefront of innovation and patient-centred care for all blood cancer types.
“Professor Seymour’s seat at our Board strengthens our mission to ensure that no Australian faces blood cancer alone,” added Mr Di Giallonardo. “We are determined to accelerate progress to save lives, improve care, and give every person affected by blood cancer in this country, hope and support when they need it most.”
