A message from Craig McFarlane, Board chairman.
Pinnacle chief executive Helen Parker has given the Board early notice that she will be moving to France in mid-September 2022.
“It was a very difficult decision to make, but the right one for my whānau. I have loved my time here and learnt so much. Working at Pinnacle and the network has been one of the most rewarding times of my career and our decision to move back to Europe is for family reasons only,” says Helen.
Helen is currently on secondment to Interim Health New Zealand (formerly the Health System Reform Transition Unit).
“The health reforms are going to be a real opportunity to reset and resource the critical role of team-based primary care in the health system. I’m confident general practice will continue to be well supported by Pinnacle to do that,” says Helen.
Helen returns to Pinnacle in July and will be working with the Board and leadership team to ensure a smooth transition.
“Helen has done an exceptional job of leading the organisation for the past three years. There will be numerous opportunities for us all to say merci beaucoup and wish Helen au revoir,” says Board chairman Craig McFarlane.
The Board is pleased to confirm Acting Chief Executive Justin Butcher will step into the role permanently from August. This provides excellent continuity for Pinnacle and the network.