Media Alert: IAPO thanks CEO who is resigning after a decade of service

The International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (IAPO) thanks Ms Jo Groves for her dedicated service as Chief Executive Officer after ten successful years with the organization. Ms Groves has resigned from the position in order to take up new challenges.

Chair of IAPO, Mr. Kin Ping Tsang said:

'I would like to acknowledge Jo Groves outstanding service and thank her for leaving IAPO in such a strong position.  IAPO is now an important global voice in healthcare representing the interests of patients.  Jo has been a very committed and capable CEO.  I join with her peers, staff and my colleagues on the IAPO Board in wishing her the very best for the future and the new opportunities that Jo will enjoy in the next phase of her life and career.’

In her time as CEO, Ms Groves has led IAPO through a period of significant growth from a start-up organization to an influential and important body representing patient groups from all over the world.  IAPO is now recognised as a credible organization providing a voice for patients across disease areas and across borders. Ms Groves oversaw the implementation of three strategic plans; increased membership from 100 to over 250 groups including regional diversification; built strong partnerships with international health related organizations including  gaining official relations with the World Health Organization and special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council; and delivered key policies and actions that have ensured that the patient voice is not only heard, but factored into healthcare decision-making as in, for example, the IAPO Declaration on Patient-Centred Healthcare.

In announcing her resignation, Ms Groves said:

'The role of CEO of IAPO has been an extremely rewarding and challenging experience both personally and professionally.  I am proud to have been part of IAPO’s journey so far which exemplifies passion, commitment, respect, support, honesty and humour of all involved to ensure a strong global patient voice.  In particular, I would like to thank the current Chair of IAPO, KP Tsang for his leadership and support.  I would also like to acknowledge the fantastic people within IAPO’s Governing Board, staff team, members and our many partners from all areas of healthcare that I have had the pleasure of working with over these past ten years.’

The IAPO Governing Board will begin a global search process to recruit a replacement CEO who can continue the very important work of IAPO.  Ms Groves will leave IAPO at the end of December 2014.

Please direct enquiries to: KP Tsang, IAPO Chair (Email: kptsang@retina.org.hk)