MidCentral Health chief leaving after seven years
MidCentral District Health Board chief executive Kathryn Cook is stepping down from June 22 in order to spend more time with family in New Zealand and Australia.
After seven years in the role, Cook says she is extraordinarily proud of her time at the DHB and all the team has accomplished.
“It has been a real privilege to have been entrusted with the role of chief executive for MidCentral District Health Board. Despite the exciting future ahead with the transition to Health New Zealand on July 1, I've decided that the time is right for us to manage our own transition.
“We have a strong leadership team here, and I will spend the next two months supporting them and ensuring this change goes smoothly.
“I am very proud of our
work to develop a locality approach for direct investment into communities, meeting their specific needs and aspirations. We are also making steady progress to reduce inequities, particularly for Ma¯ori. I have very much valued the support of our partners in this, in particular iwi, the PHO, local government, the Ministry of Social Development, and healthcare providers.”
MidCentral DHB chair Brendan Duffy said the board was appreciative of Cook's leadership during a challenging time for health.
“Upon stepping into the role, Kath has dedicated her efforts to improving health facilities, access to treatments and care, as well as Ma¯ori healthcare services and engagement. Her focus on building leadership within the DHB is recognised by the Board, and her continued confidence in the leadership of the DHB will serve it well in the future.
Health NZ has agreed Dr Jeff Brown, a key member of the leadership team, will act as chief executive following Cook's departure.