Source: BioPharmaDisatch:

Praise for the CEO of Hepatitis Australia Helen Tyrrell who has announced her intention to retire from the organisation she has led since 2005.

Ms Tyrrell has led Hepatitis Australia through a period of significant achievement with the development of national strategies and major breakthroughs in treatment, notably the reimbursement of the direct-acting antiviral cures for hepatitis C.

She will remain as CEO in a part-time capacity before departing in February next year.

"I commenced as CEO at Hepatitis Australia in 2005 and it has been my absolute privilege and pleasure to have worked with so many committed individuals helping people affected by hepatitis to improve their health and well-being," said Ms Tyrrell in a statement.

"It has been both challenging and immensely rewarding to have been in my role at Hepatitis Australia during such a transformative period for viral hepatitis across the globe."

In a statement, Hepatitis Australia national president Felicity McNeill PSM said, “It is with great sadness that Hepatitis Australia has commenced searching for a new CEO. Helen’s commitment, tenacity and significant experience have helped changed the landscape for the discussion of hepatitis in Australia over the past decade.

"Throughout her career, Helen has never lost sight of who she works for every day, and for us it is the 450,000 people living with hepatitis in Australia.  There are many people’s lives changed forever for the better because of Helen’s advocacy, strength and compassion. 

"We are the poorer for her leaving, but we are in a better position to eliminate hepatitis B and C in Australia because of her work.

"The Board wishes Helen all the best and thanks her for her tireless efforts and support.”