We are proud to welcome Jim Cooper as the permanent CEO of Continence Health Australia. With experience spanning legal, corporate and community sectors, Jim’s leadership will guide Continence Health Australia into a new chapter. Here’s a glimpse into his remarkable career journey.
Jim’s story is one of resilience, integrity and authentic connection. Born and raised in Melbourne, his career has taken him from law offices to managing complex infrastructure, always with a focus on ethical leadership and community engagement.
From Humble Beginnings to a Passion for Business
Jim’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident from a young age, starting his lawn mowing and painting business from the age of 12. His family’s involvement in a distribution business and his father’s leadership role in the superannuation industry inspired him to pursue university degrees in law and economics at Monash. His specialisation in accounting laid a strong foundation for his diverse career ahead.
A Journey Through Law and Corporate Leadership
Jim started in Australia’s legal elite, working as a lawyer at Arthur Robinson & Hedderwicks, one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious law firms. This experience ingrained in him the value of precision, clarity and thoroughness. He moved into in-house legal roles, including with ICI (now Orica), where he travelled extensively, and PMP Communications, advising a portfolio of major magazines such as New Idea. In these roles he developed skills in organisation, stakeholder management and navigating complexity.
Navigating Controversy and Crisis with Integrity
Jim’s career was notably shaped by his work at the Australian Wheat Board (AWB), where he served as General Counsel. Investigating the controversial oil-for-food program in Iraq, he learnt critical lessons about honesty, transparency and supporting colleagues during turbulent times. His leadership emphasises calmness, ethical rigour and active support, especially during crises.
Leading with Empathy and Purpose
Jim’s leadership style is likened to that of an orchestra conductor—he doesn’t dictate every note but instead orchestrates diverse teams to work in harmony towards a shared goal. He fosters collaboration, trust and a collective purpose, believing that effective leadership is about alignment, not control. His straightforward communication, active listening and unwavering integrity have earned him deep respect in every organisation he’s served.
A Vision for the Future
Now, as CEO of Continence Health Australia, Jim is committed to elevating awareness of continence health to the same level as mental health. His mission is to educate the community and ensure that continence care is recognised as a vital aspect of health and wellbeing. He envisions a future where continence health becomes an integral part of each person’s healthcare.
A Commitment to Change
Jim brings not only his extensive experience but also a heartfelt passion for making a difference. His dedication to community, honesty and simple yet effective leadership will be instrumental in strengthening our purpose. Under his guidance, we are excited to work together, aiming to raise awareness, normalise the conversation around incontinence and improve lives through better understanding and care.