Mr Mario D’Orazio announced as new Heart Foundation Chair

Media release: 15 September 2022

The Heart Foundation is pleased to announce Mr Mario D’Orazio as incoming Chair of the National Board. He is the first Western Australian to be appointed this national role, and will commence as Chair on 1 January, 2023.

Mr D’Orazio is an existing member of the National Board of the Heart Foundation and has previously been Chair of the organisation’s Western Australia Advisory Board.

Mr D’Orazio’s executive experience includes eight years as Managing Director with Channel Seven Perth.

He has extensive Board experience and is presently Chair of both the Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts and the Australian Institute of Management Western Australia. Mr D’Orazio is currently a member of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) Board and is also a Board member of the Australian Council for the Arts.

Mr D’Orazio said of his appointment:

“I am delighted and honoured to be appointed Chair, having already served as a member of the Board for this fantastic organisation.

“The Heart Foundation has established a strong legacy in supporting Australians through cardiovascular research, patient support and prevention advice, and I look forward to working with my Board colleagues and the executive team to continue this great legacy.

“I would also like to thank outgoing Chair and Board colleague, Chris Leptos, for his terrific leadership these past four years.”

Heart Foundation CEO, David Lloyd, congratulated Mr D’Orazio on his appointment, and thanked outgoing Heart Foundation Chair, Mr Chris Leptos AO, for his four years served as Board chair.

Mr Lloyd said: “Under Chris’ careful stewardship, the Board has transformed the Heart Foundation in to a single and truly national organisation.

“This has positioned us well to continue the Heart Foundation’s 60-plus year legacy as a strong advocate and funder of cardiovascular research, and I thank Chris for his guidance and wisdom over this period.

“I know we are all very much looking forward to working with Mario and the Board to continue our important work.”

Outgoing Chair, Chris Leptos AO, said:

“It has been a tremendous honour to Chair the Heart Foundation.

“This organisation is much-loved by Australians for the work it has done to support lifesaving cardiovascular research, patient support programs, and education around heart disease prevention. It is nothing short of a national treasure.

“I congratulate Mario on his appointment and wish he, the Board and organisation all the best for the future.”