VANCOUVER - Dr. Sutcliffe is a distinguished clinician and scientist who has achieved fellowship status in both medical and radiation oncology. Most recently, Dr. Sutcliffe was Vice-President, Regional Services, Vancouver Cancer Centre, BC Cancer Agency, a position he has held since September 1996. Prior to that, he held the positions of President & Chief Executive Officer and Vice-President, Oncology Programs for the Ontario Cancer Institute / Princess Margaret Hospital. He was a professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Toronto. He is a member of numerous scientific and editorial boards, and has lectured widely on matters related to academic clinical oncology, and organization and delivery of cancer services. In addition to membership on a number of provincial and national committees, he is a member of the Implementation Group and chairs the Treatment Working Group of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control.

"Dr. Sutcliffe brings significant leadership experience to his new role which will ensure the confirmation and development of the BC Cancer Agency's mission, vision and values," says Dr. Sally Thorne, chair of the Agency's Board of Trustees. "With this appointment, the Agency will be well-positioned to continue its mandate of linking cancer research to the development of standards, policy and programs resulting in the delivery of consistent, patient-centred, evidence-based care to the population of British Columbia."

"These are exciting times for cancer treatment and research," says Dr. Sutcliffe. "The Human Genome Project, and our own Genome Sequence Centre, will open the door to a new way of thinking about cancer prevention and treatment."

"As well, the role of the public in setting the agenda for cancer care has become a much more important factor," he adds. "I look forward to working with all those involved in cancer control, notably patients and their families, to achieve our goals."

Dr. Sutcliffe will support the important fund-raising work of the BC Cancer Foundation and provide ongoing strategic leadership to the Agency's world-renowned research initiatives. His leadership will also enable the Agency to continue as an international leader in its programs and processes in cancer control.