ACON chief executive Nicolas Parkhill has announced his retirement from the Australian HIV and LGBTQ+ health organisation after serving at the helm for 15 years.
Parkhill joined ACON, previously known as the AIDS Council of NSW, as director of operations in 2006 and has been its chief executive since 2009. He will finish up at the end of his contract in August 2024.
“I feel it is the right time for the organisation, and for myself, both personally and professionally,” Parkhill said.
“ACON is in a very good place, and continues to deliver on its strategic plan, to our communities, and to our many beneficiaries and stakeholders.”
In his time in the top job, Parkhill led several initiatives including establishing NSW’s first community-based rapid HIV testing service and the development of the “Ending HIV” education framework.
“We continue to work with our communities in innovative ways to reduce HIV notifications and to assist people living with HIV, always adapting our programs to benefit those most at risk,” he said.
“Our ability to build new LGBTQ+ health programs, where we know there is real and unmet need, continues to strengthen and increase our impact.”
Parkhill was also instrumental in the rollout and adoption of HIV prevention medication PrEP, as well as other efforts to get people living with HIV to initiate treatment earlier.
Parkhill was recognised in 2022 for his efforts when he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have been given the opportunity to serve our communities in this way,” Parkhill said.
“I am proud of all that ACON has achieved, and I am so grateful for the incredible people who I have had the privilege to work alongside over the last 18 years.”
ACON president Dr Justin Koonin passed on his gratitude to Parkhill for his years-long service to ACON and thanked him for his passion and commitment to improving health outcomes.
“Nicolas’ strong leadership, relentless pursuit of excellence, spirit of innovation and collaborative approach have seen ACON achieve remarkable growth and success,” Koonin said.
“He leaves behind an organisation that is strong, agile and ready to continue on in its journey towards meeting its strategic objectives.
“He leaves big shoes to fill, but the organisation is in a great place.”
The search is now on for a new chief executive to take over the role.
Gay Sydney News editor