Experienced health leader appointed to WA research and innovation role

Experienced healthcare executive Tim Leen has joined the WA Department of Health as Executive Director, Research and Innovation.

In the role, Tim Leen leads the Office of Medical Research and Innovation, which works across the health system and with research organisations, universities, industry and the community to support health and medical research and innovation in Western Australia.

He brings more than two decades of leadership experience across Australia and the United Kingdom, including senior roles in clinical services, mental health, digital health, research, innovation and organisational transformation.

Before taking up the position, Tim Leen was Executive Director Mental Health and Executive Director Transformation at South Metropolitan Health Service.

His previous work included bringing mental health services together under an integrated area-wide model, contributing to the establishment of a specialist women’s mental health hospital, leading digital health and innovation initiatives, and strengthening research capability and partnerships.

Across his career, he has supported collaboration among clinicians, consumers, researchers, health services, universities and industry. His focus has been on translating research, evidence and emerging technologies into practical improvements in care, workforce wellbeing and health-system performance.

Tim Leen said collaboration would be central to his new role.

“No single organisation can deliver the full potential of health and medical research alone,” he said.

“By connecting expertise across the health system, research sector, industry and community, we can create stronger pathways from discovery and innovation to better care.”

Tim Leen holds a Master of Medical Science and has published peer-reviewed research.

He commenced the role on 3 August 2026 on a 12-month secondment from South Metropolitan Health Service.