APHA CEO reflects on legacy with farewell

Taking on the top job at the Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) was not without risk for CEO Michael Roff.

In fact, looking back to that day nearly 25 years ago, he said it was "a bit overwhelming".

"When I was first appointed, I felt very lucky, it was unexpected," said Mr Roff, who had joined the industry body six years earlier in 1994 as Public Affairs Manager.

"Although, the organisation was in a bit of turmoil," he added.

"We had just had our biggest member resign overnight, half the staff had been made redundant, the president at that time came to me and gave me an offer – he said you can take a payout or become the CEO.

"We had declining membership, the staff numbers had been halved, we had an uncertain financial future. But I thought I could do the government relations part and the rest I could figure out."

Ms Gee said Mr Roff's many accomplishments during his long and successful tenure as APHA CEO were credit to his strength of character, his immeasurable patience and his exceptional negotiation and advocacy skills.

"The manner in which he has navigated the multiplicity of challenges that have come the private hospital sector's way over the past 25 years-plus is simply outstanding," she said.

"It has been a great pleasure and an honour to work alongside Michael."

Mr Roff said he did not have any immediate plans apart from taking some time to relax.

"My wife recently submitted her PhD, after four years, and we are now heading to Europe for five months, with no plans beyond that," he said.

"We want to relax and reflect and see what happens next."

He revealed he had one 'secret' to his success.

"That has been to employ people who are smarter than me, and then I do what they tell me," Mr Roff said, laughing.

"So, thank you to all the staff I've had around me during this time, they're an amazing team."

Read more: APHA CEO announces resignation after 24 years

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