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The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) has reinforced the strength of its governance with two new Board Director appointments and one re-appointment, continuing to lead and shape the future of pharmacy.
The Board welcomes Paul Shinkfield and Michael Soriano as new Directors. Collectively, they bring extensive experience across strategy, workforce development, professional practice, regulation and policy, enhancing the Board’s capability to support the organisation’s strategic priorities and future direction. Both Paul and Michael will commence on 1st August this year.
Paul Shinkfield joins the Board with strong regulatory and governance expertise shaped by senior national and international roles. He is currently the Executive Director of the International Association of Medical Regulatory Authorities (IAMRA), and was previously National Director, Strategy at the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). A registered physiotherapist and Australian lawyer, Paul brings a unique combination of clinical, legal and strategic expertise to the Board.
Michael Soriano joins the APC Board with deep clinical experience. He is the Director of Pharmacy at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, a leading comprehensive cancer centre in Sydney, and has extensive experience in specialist oncology pharmacy practice, medication safety, education, research and healthcare leadership. Michael also brings valuable lived experience of the overseas-trained pharmacist pathway into Australia, having successfully completed the APC assessment process several years ago.
The Board has also confirmed the reappointment of Aleena Williams, a proud Yugambeh woman and pharmacist, recognising her continued valuable contribution to the APC's ongoing commitment to driving a culturally safe workforce for First Nations Peoples.
Board Chair, Professor Sarah Roberts-Thomson AM said these appointments strike an important balance between continuity and renewal.
“A strong and effective Board draws on both fresh perspectives and deep organisational knowledge. These appointments ensure APC remains well placed to deliver for our stakeholders and to respond to the ever-changing healthcare landscape,' Prof Roberts-Thomson stated.
The Board farewells and thanks outgoing Board Director Helen Spiteri, who has contributed to APC across committees and the Board collectively for the last 10 years including the last 5 years as an APC Board Director.
In line with the organisation’s governance framework and Director term cycles, 2 other directors' Board terms will conclude at the end of 2026. The current appointments process has anticipated these transitions, with further announcements to be made later this year.