Sonic Healthcare announces a major leadership transition with Dr Colin Goldschmidt retiring after 32 years as CEO, succeeded by Dr Jim Newcombe. The company also appoints Evangelos Kotsopoulos as Chief Operating Officer to support its global growth ambitions.
- Dr Colin Goldschmidt to retire as CEO on 20 November 2025
- Dr Jim Newcombe appointed as new Managing Director and CEO
- Evangelos Kotsopoulos named Chief Operating Officer in newly created role
- Leadership transition aims to preserve Sonic’s Medical Leadership culture
- Dr Newcombe’s remuneration package includes A$1.75 million fixed salary plus incentives
A New Chapter for Sonic Healthcare
After more than three decades at the helm, Dr Colin Goldschmidt is set to retire as CEO of Sonic Healthcare, marking the end of an era for one of the world’s largest pathology providers. His departure, effective from the company’s Annual General Meeting on 20 November 2025, ushers in a carefully planned leadership succession designed to maintain Sonic’s distinctive culture and strategic momentum.
Dr Jim Newcombe, a seasoned pathologist and infectious diseases physician with eight years at Sonic, will take over as Managing Director and CEO. Currently leading Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Sonic’s founding and one of its largest laboratories, Dr Newcombe has demonstrated a strong track record in operational improvements and earnings growth. His appointment signals a commitment to continuity, particularly in preserving Sonic’s hallmark Medical Leadership culture, which integrates deep medical expertise with operational excellence.
Strengthening the Executive Team
Complementing this transition, Sonic has created the new role of Chief Operating Officer, appointing Evangelos Kotsopoulos, who currently oversees Sonic’s European operations. Mr Kotsopoulos brings a blend of investment banking experience and extensive leadership in European markets, where Sonic holds dominant positions in Germany and Switzerland. His elevation to COO reflects Sonic’s ambition to streamline global operations and drive growth across its key regions including Australasia, Europe, the UK, and the USA.
Chairman Professor Mark Compton expressed confidence in the new leadership team, highlighting their shared vision to balance prudent change with the preservation of Sonic’s core values. The company’s executive bench, including long-serving CFO Chris Wilks and Chief Medical Officer Dr Stephen Fairy, remains intact, providing stability during this pivotal period.
Leadership Terms and Future Outlook
Dr Newcombe’s employment terms reveal a competitive remuneration package with a fixed annual salary of A$1.75 million, supplemented by substantial short- and long-term incentives tied to performance. This structure aligns his interests closely with shareholder value creation and operational efficiency improvements.
Dr Newcombe’s public remarks underscore his commitment to Sonic’s people and principles, emphasizing growth with integrity and a focus on delivering value to shareholders. Meanwhile, Dr Goldschmidt will continue to contribute as an advisor to the board and chair of the Sonic Healthcare Foundation, ensuring a smooth handover and ongoing strategic input.
This leadership transition arrives at a time when Sonic Healthcare is well positioned financially and culturally, ready to navigate the evolving healthcare landscape. Investors and industry watchers will be keen to see how the new team leverages Sonic’s global footprint and medical leadership ethos to sustain growth and innovation.
Bottom Line?
Sonic’s leadership handover sets the stage for measured evolution, balancing legacy with fresh strategic drive.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Dr Newcombe’s clinical background influence Sonic’s strategic priorities?
- What operational changes might COO Evangelos Kotsopoulos implement across global markets?
- Will Sonic’s Medical Leadership culture adapt or evolve under the new executive team?