New CEO For Hospice New Zealand

Te Kahu Pairuri o Aotearoa/Hospice New Zealand has appointed Wayne Naylor as its new Chief Executive. Hospice New Zealand Board Chair, Jane Williams, says she is delighted and excited for Wayne to be confirmed in the role.

“We were pleased to have high calibre applicants for this role. The appointment and selection of Wayne followed a process that took several months, including a consultative questionnaire with the hospice membership that significantly re-shaped the Position Description, a national search from the recruitment agency and a rigorous shortlisting and interview process. The Board is confident in this appointment for the organisation and our membership,” she says.

“Wayne has a strong background in health, in particular nurse leadership roles, and with national advisory and policy roles in cancer care, palliative care and hospice care. He was Director of Nursing at Hospice Waikato for nine years and was responsible for leading a team of nurses and developing the clinical services provided by the hospice, including its Rainbow Place children’s palliative care team.

“Wayne is absolutely committed to a future where hospice care is more fairly funded, valued and understood. In the most recent months as Acting Chief Executive, he has brought public attention to the funding crisis facing hospices throughout the country and the precarious state of the sector. The Board has fully supported his advocacy and leadership in raising these issues,” says Jane Williams.

“Wayne shares the Board’s vision to deliver hospice care that is accessible, equitable and meets the changing needs of all New Zealanders,” she says. …/2

Wayne says he is committed to working with the 32 hospices around the country, continuing to advocate on their behalf and to encourage a culture of collaboration.

Wayne has been Acting Chief Executive, following the resignation of Mary Schumacher.

“Hospices are currently facing some of the greatest challenges they have ever had in their 40 year history in New Zealand,” he says.

“At the same time, the wide-reaching health reforms present what may be a once in a generation opportunity to address the challenges facing the delivery of health services, they also provide the opportunity to set hospices on course for a sustainable future in the delivery of quality palliative care for their communities. “

“Hospice is here for everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand, so we also need to engage widely and purposefully. I’m committed to sharing and learning with others in the health and business sectors and engaging strongly with government to ensure that the benefits of hospice care is delivered to all who need it.” he says.

“I am grateful for the opportunity and excited to be leading not just an organisation but a movement that truly makes a difference to people’s lives”

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