Dean Rutherford has been appointed to the role of Deputy Director-General, Evidence Research and Innovation | Te Pou Whakamārama on a permanent basis. The position of Deputy Director-General Evidence, Research and Innovation has been an interim role since 1 July 2022, with Dean seconded into this position on an interim basis. He will continue to lead the delivery of excellent work in this space, as we drive innovation right across the health system.

Simon Medcalf has been appointed to the role of Deputy Director-General, Regulation and Monitoring | Te Pou Whakakaha. Since March 2020, Simon has been our Group Manager – Strategy and has recently led the development of the suite of six new Pae Ora health strategies and developing our approach to Budget. His background includes developing the recent health reforms in the DPMC Transition Unit, and around 15 years leading national strategy and policy for health and care in the UK.

Robyn Shearer has been appointed to the role of Deputy Director-General, Clinical, Community and Mental Health | Te Pou Whakamaru. Since mid-2020, Robyn has been our Acting Deputy Chief Executive and supported the Director-General with areas such as workforce development, COVID-19 response and cross agency relationships. In 2019 Robyn came to the Ministry to lead the mental health and addiction Directorate.