Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora has appointed Dr Dale Bramley as chief executive for a fixed term after he stepped in temporarily following the resignation of Margie Apa in February.
Bramley had been interim chief executive since Apa’s resignation.
Apa and Health NZ Commissioner Lester Levy had planned a two-year “reset” of the organisation amid serious budget challenges.
At the time of her resignation, Apa said Health NZ was at a point in the Government’s reset where a “different leadership approach is required to take us forward”.
Levy said Bramley’s expertise in driving performance and clinical quality aligned with Health NZ’s strategic objectives.
Bramley was the chief executive of Waitematā District Health Board for more than 10 years and has held several senior roles across the health system.
“Dale has led a large DHB, hospitals, maternity services, mental health services, community and national services,” Levy said.
“He is widely respected across the health care system as both a senior clinician and senior executive.
“His breadth of leadership experience, insights and expertise stand him in good stead to drive Health NZ’s ongoing improvement as a high performing organisation that is focused on delivery, outcomes and enhancing patient experience.”
Bramley said serving the wider community and improving health outcomes was an “absolute priority”.
“Our health system is blessed with incredibly skilled, highly trained, and compassionate people.
“Working with them, we will aim to improve access to health services, promote health, and focus on delivering the very highest quality healthcare we can for patients, whānau and communities.”
Bramley will serve as chief executive for three years from July 14.
