Gut Cancer Foundation is announcing that Liam Willis will step down from his role as Executive Officer after seven years with the organisation.
Liam was appointed in July 2019, at a time when he was the Foundation’s only employee. Since then, GCF has grown across all areas of its work, including fundraising, research investment, awareness, advocacy, and patient support. The organisation now has a dedicated team of seven in place, with strong foundations for its next stage of development.
During Liam’s time as Executive Officer, GCF’s research commitments have doubled to more than $1 million. The Foundation has also expanded its awareness-raising work and increased its advocacy activity, contributing to significant outcomes for gut cancer patients, including the funding of four new treatments. Liam has also been an active member of the wider cancer NGO community, representing GCF at Pharmac's stakeholder engagement and acting as vice-chair of CANGO.
GCF has also developed and launched New Zealand’s first support service for people with upper gastrointestinal cancer, helping to address a long-standing gap for patients and whānau affected by these cancers.
The Board is actively engaged in the process to appoint GCF’s next Executive Officer and is focused on ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition. With a committed team, clear strategic priorities, and a growing base of supporters, the Foundation is well placed for its next chapter.
Liam says "It has been an honour to lead GCF for the last seven years. The growth in impact during that time reflects the dedication and expertise of the team, past and present, and the commitment of our supporters, partners, researchers, clinicians, and wider community.
This cause means a great deal to me, and I will always be a passionate advocate for people affected by gut cancers. I am proud of the foundations we have built together, and I look forward to seeing GCF continue to grow its impact in the years ahead.”
GCF Co-Chairs Anna St George and Antony Vriens said "Liam’s vision and commitment to the Gut Cancer Foundation has been beyond measure. We thank him for his enormous efforts and definitely wish him well. We are secure in knowing that we have a strong strategy in place and a great team."
The Board, staff, and wider GCF community thank Liam for his service and contribution over the past seven years. Further updates about the appointment process will be shared in due course.