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Wavelength's Future: Founder-Led & Focused on Healthcare's Evolving Needs
Discover Wavelength International's exciting leadership evolution as Co-founder Dr John Bethell returns to an Executive Director role, joining Claire Ponsford. Learn how our founder-led vision is shaping the future of medical recruitment in Australia.
- By: Wavelength
- June 20, 2025

Here at Wavelength International, we're embarking on an exciting new chapter. We're thrilled to announce a pivotal leadership transition designed to secure our future, deepen our unique founder and doctor-led ethos, and truly capitalise on the new opportunities emerging in Australia's dynamic healthcare market. Our Co-founder and Non-Executive Director, Dr John Bethell, is returning to an executive role as a Director, working closely alongside our fellow Co-founder and Director, Claire Ponsford.
John Bethell & Claire Ponsford present the Wavie of the Year Award in Sydney in 2023.
Reinforcing Our Founder-Led Vision
This strategic move marks a significant moment for Wavelength. Bringing Dr Bethell back into an executive capacity allows us to deeply reinforce our commitment to medical professionals and healthcare providers across Australia. It sharpens our focus on Wavelength’s core mission and values, leveraging John's extensive understanding of the medical landscape and the foundational principles upon which Wavelength was built.
"We are incredibly excited to welcome John back to Australia and into an executive capacity," says Claire Ponsford. "His return highlights our unique position as a truly founder-led, doctor-led organisation. This move is about finding new momentum and driving forward our vision to connect the best medical talent with critical healthcare needs, navigating the shifting market with expertise and agility."
Driving Forward in a Dynamic Healthcare Market
Dr John Bethell is equally enthusiastic about stepping into his renewed executive role. "It's an honour to step back into an executive position at Wavelength," he says. "Claire and I share a profound passion for supporting the medical community, and I'm eager to contribute directly to our strategic direction. The healthcare sector is evolving rapidly, and by consolidating our experience and leadership, we are perfectly positioned to identify new opportunities and continue to deliver unparalleled service to both our doctors and our clients."
This leadership evolution underscores Wavelength's dedication to its founding principles. It ensures our strategic direction remains deeply informed by the hands-on perspectives of medical professionals. We are truly poised to strengthen our market position, adapt to new challenges, and continue our legacy of shaping Australia's healthcare future.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Chris Riley
As we embark on this new chapter, we also want to extend our sincerest gratitude to Chris Riley, who is departing after nine years of exceptional service as our CEO.
"We wish to sincerely thank Chris for his unwavering commitment, dedication, and loyalty over the past nine years," Claire shares. "He has been instrumental in steering Wavelength's success and growth, and we are immensely grateful for his invaluable contributions to our team and the Australian healthcare sector."
We’re excited for what the future holds under this revitalised leadership, and we look forward to continuing our mission to support Australia’s healthcare workforce, every step of the way.
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