AUSactive names Ken Griffin as incoming Chief Executive

AUSactive has announced the appointment of Ken Griffin as its new Chief Executive, following the departure of outgoing postholder Barrie Elvish who has led the peak association with distinction since January 2019.

Griffin brings to AUSactive more than two decades of experience in marketing, communications and government affairs across the healthcare, not-for-profit, pharmaceutical, beverage and logistics sectors.

Known for his strategic leadership and passion for preventative healthcare, Griffin has held senior roles with organisations including GlaxoSmithKline, Hospira (now Pfizer), Linfox and most recently as Chief Executive of the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA).

Highly regarded within the Australian healthcare landscape, having worked extensively with patient and professional groups, peak bodies and special interest organisations, Griffin brings a wealth of expertise to AUSactive at a time of continued growth and momentum for the government-recognised peak body in the exercise and active health industry and the wider health and well-being sector.

Welcoming the appointment, which was announced at yesterday's AUSactive Leadership Forum in Canberra, AUSactive Chair Emmett Williams said Griffin’s extensive experience and values-aligned leadership will be a tremendous asset to the organisation.

Williams advised “Ken brings not only strategic expertise but also a deep understanding of preventative healthcare and stakeholder engagement. His vision aligns with AUSactive’s commitment to building a healthier Australia through physical activity and more active lifestyles.

“As we look to the future, we are excited to have someone of Ken’s calibre to continue building on the strong foundations that have been laid. Ken is extremely well connected and through his vast experience and professionalism builds strong rapport with those he meets.”

Griffin will take the reins from Elvish, who is stepping down after a transformative six-year tenure at the helm of AUSactive.

Initially appointed as interim Chief Executive in January 2019 to help steer the organisation through a challenging period, Elvish quickly became an instrumental leader - rebuilding trust, reinvigorating the organisation’s culture, and setting a bold new strategic direction.

Williams stated "when Barrie stepped into the role, AUSactive was facing serious operational and cultural challenges.

“His unwavering commitment to transparency, collaboration and sustainability has completely reshaped the organisation. Under his leadership, AUSactive has evolved into a stronger, more engaged and future-focused peak body.”

“Not only has Barrie led the way with securing more than $1 million of government grants, he is also an endearing and engaging speaker and advocator who has led the industry.”

“On behalf of the Board and the wider industry, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Barrie for his years of dedication, insight and service to AUSactive and the broader health and fitness community.”

Throughout his tenure, Elvish played a key role in restoring financial sustainability, building a united and empowered team, strengthening relationships with government and industry stakeholders, and amplifying the role of physical activity in preventative health policy.

Excited to be stepping into the role at such a pivotal time for AUSactive and the sector more broadly, Griffin commented "a healthy Australia is an active Australia. And Australia’s health will be greatly improved if physical activity, and the sector providing it, were formally linked in health policy.

“I’m looking forward to joining the AUSactive team to strengthen the sector and make Australia healthier.”

A formal handover between Elvish and Griffin will take place over the coming months, with Griffin officially commencing in his new role as of 27th October 2025.

Images: Ken Griffin (top), Griffin addresses yesterday's AUSactive Leadership Forum in Canberra (middle) and AUSactive leaders at the Parliament House event - (below, from left): outgoing AUSactive Chair Jayne Blake, Barrie Elvish, Ken Griffin and Emmett Williams.