Posted: 6 March 2025
BioMelbourne Network, the peak industry body for the life sciences sector in Victoria, announces that its Chair, David Herd, will retire from the Board on 28 April 2025. The Board has elected Dr Emma Ball as its incoming Chair, succeeding David on 29 April 2025.
Melbourne. BioMelbourne Network has announced a change in its leadership. David Herd will be stepping down as Board Chair and will retire from the Board, having served since 2018, first as a Director and Chair, Nominations and Renumeration Committee (till 2021); Deputy Chair since 2019; and as its Chair since 2021. Throughout his tenure, he has been instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of BioMelbourne Network, guiding the organisation through significant periods of growth and transformation.
Through his leadership, BioMelbourne Network has solidified its position within the Victorian health technologies sector, delivering positive outcomes for members and stakeholders and contributing to the advancement of life sciences.
Reflecting on his time as Chair, David Herd, said, “It has been an absolute privilege to serve as Chair of BioMelbourne Network. I am incredibly proud of what the Board and management have achieved during my tenure.
“BioMelbourne Network is in an excellent position to continue driving innovation and advancing the health technologies sector. I would like to express my gratitude to my fellow Board members and the entire team for their dedication to our mission and ongoing success. I would also like to sincerely thank the Victorian Government’s Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions and all of our generous partners for their continuous support and commitment to the Network.
“Dr Emma Ball is an excellent choice as new Board Chair, and I wish her every success in her role.”
Dr Emma Ball appointed as new Chair
Dr Emma Ball will succeed David Herd, bringing 20 years of experience in strategic and operational roles spanning therapeutics, vaccines, diagnostics, and life sciences tools. Her leadership has been instrumental in fostering collaboration, advancing innovation, and driving impactful outcomes within the life sciences sector.
Currently serving as the Global Head of Ecosystem Development at Illumina, Dr Emma Ball focuses on advancing strategic partnerships in genomics. She joined the BioMelbourne Network Board in June 2024 and is currently serving on the Finance and Risk Subcommittee, positioning her to strongly guide BioMelbourne Network into its next chapter.
On her appointment, Dr Emma Ball said: “I wish to acknowledge David Herd’s outstanding contribution to both BioMelbourne Network and the broader health technologies sector. David is renowned for his strategic insight, exemplary leadership, and deep expertise in government affairs and communications.
“I am dedicated to building upon his legacy and advancing the crucial role BioMelbourne Network plays within our industry. I look forward to working closely with the Board, management, and our members as we continue to shape the future of life sciences.”
See the BioMelbourne Network Board here.
– END –
Media Contact:
Claudia Loeber-Raab | Communications Manager
Email: cloeber-raab@biomelbourne.org | Mob 0425 785 143
About BioMelbourne Network
BioMelbourne Network is Victoria’s leading industry association for organisations engaged in biotechnology, medical technology, and health innovation. Since 2001, BioMelbourne Network has grown to more than 200 companies and 6,000 members, and focuses on building an engaged and collaborative life sciences community through data and insights. The Network promotes and advocates for sector growth, and provides members with opportunities to accelerate their research, innovation, commercialisation and manufacturing.
