New Executive Director to help drive WA health research and innovation
The Office of Medical Research and Innovation has welcomed Tim Leen as its new Executive Director, Research and Innovation.
Tim Leen brings more than 20 years of healthcare leadership experience across Australia and the United Kingdom, with expertise spanning research, innovation, digital health, system transformation, workforce development and clinical service reform.
In his new role, he will lead the Office of Medical Research and Innovation, including its work to support the delivery of the Future Health Research and Innovation (FHRI) Fund.
The FHRI Fund provides a secure source of funding for health and medical research, innovation and commercialisation that benefits Western Australians. Its Strategy 2025–30 provides a roadmap for building a sustainable health and medical research and innovation sector that is globally connected and driven by Western Australia.
Tim Leen’s previous executive roles include Executive Director Mental Health and Executive Director Transformation at South Metropolitan Health Service.
During this time, he led initiatives across digital health, research, innovation, organisational development and mental health reform. His experience includes helping develop the South Metropolitan Health Service Research Strategy 2023–2033, establishing research infrastructure, strengthening university partnerships and supporting the implementation of technology-enabled models of care.
Tim Leen said he was looking forward to working with Western Australia’s research and innovation community to turn ideas and evidence into meaningful benefits.
“Western Australia has exceptional researchers, clinicians, innovators and partners working across the health and medical research sector,” he said.
“I look forward to building on these strengths and supporting collaboration that translates research and innovation into better health outcomes for Western Australians.”
His appointment comes as the FHRI Fund progresses the implementation of its Strategy 2025–30, with a focus on connection and collaboration, acceleration and translation, and foundational confidence.
Tim Leen commenced the role on 3 August 2026 on a 12-month secondment from South Metropolitan Health Service.