Thank you Anthony Nguyen for featuring Harbison CEO David Cochran on your podcast.
Aged Care Recruitment Manager | Podcast Host of the "Leaders in Aged Care" series | 75+ Episodes with CEOs, COOs Execs & Leaders around AUS and growing! Call me on 0404412599 to be featured or to discuss recruitment!
Podcast – Leaders in Aged Care with David Cochran, Episode 70 I had the privilege of sitting down with David Cochran, the CEO of Harbison, on the latest episode of the Leaders in Aged Care Podcast. David's journey is a remarkable testament to the impact that purpose-driven leadership can have on our communities. Harbison, nestled in the beautiful Southern Highlands halfway between Sydney and Canberra, has been serving seniors since 1954. Under David's leadership, this not-for-profit organization has expanded its services, offering everything from residential aged care and home care to retirement living. But what's truly inspiring is how David and his team are reimagining aged care. David came into the aged care sector by chance, seeking a role that offered a deeper sense of purpose beyond his successful 20-year career in the commercial sector. He found that purpose at Harbison, where he emphasizes a "people-first" culture. He encourages every team member to act like a leader, fostering an environment where autonomy, trust, and professional growth are not just ideals but everyday practices. One of the standout initiatives we discussed is Harbison's adoption of Motiview and participation in the Road Worlds for Seniors. Imagine residents cycling virtually through the streets of Paris, around Buckingham Palace, or along the Sydney Opera House—all from the comfort of adaptive therapy bikes. This program isn't just about physical activity; it's about combating loneliness, boredom, and helplessness among seniors. It builds camaraderie between residents, staff, and families, uniting them in a common goal. This year, Harbison aims to ride 10,000 kilometers in a month as part of an international competition involving over 7,000 participants from ten countries. It's possibly the largest annual sporting event happening within nursing homes worldwide. This initiative exemplifies how innovative thinking can transform the aged care experience. David also shared ambitious goals for the next year: starting construction on a new retirement village, launching the Dementia Corner program to provide comprehensive support from diagnosis to post-care, and expanding their intergenerational program by introducing on-site childcare services. He left us with a thought-provoking question for the next guest: "How do we prepare our aged care workforce for the AI revolution?" It's a question that underscores the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements to better serve our communities.