From the Director-General of Health

I'm delighted to let you know that I've appointed Anna Clark to the Deputy Director-General (DDG) Health Workforce position at the Ministry of Health. 

The Health Workforce directorate was set up to create and support a clear strategy and future pathway for the health workforce in New Zealand. This includes workforce policy, planning, commissioning of training, and supporting development and implementation of innovative workforce initiatives across the sector, including with DHBs.

Anna has a strong public sector track record and is currently the acting Head of the Office of the Chief Executive at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. She brings a range of skills and experience to the Ministry, and indeed the broader health sector.

I would like to sincerely thank Helen Wood for her time acting in the DDG Health Workforce role. Helen has been pivotal in setting up the directorate and working alongside me to progress important opportunities for our health workforce. Helen will stay acting in the role until Anna starts on 10 June and continue with then Ministry for a period for hand-over.

This completes the appointment of our permanent Executive Leadership Team after last year’s tier two changes at the Ministry. We will continue to work closely and constructively with you all to achieve our collective aspirations for better and equitable health outcomes for all New Zealanders.

Ashley Bloomfield.