New Chair for Southern Cross Healthcare Group

New Chair for New Zealand’s Largest Private Healthcare Group

Professional director Graeme Hawkins has been appointed Chairman of the Southern Cross Healthcare Group from 1 July.

The Southern Cross Group encompasses New Zealand’s largest health insurer, largest private hospitals network and leading online travel insurer, each of which operates independently and at arms length from one other.

Mr Hawkins appointment follows the retirement of Jeff Todd, who has served on the Board since 1998 and been chairman for the past two years.

Mr Hawkins, who has been a professional director for 15 years, joined the Southern Cross Board in September 2008. His business experience includes CEO of Dominion Breweries and 14 years with the Fletcher Group in a variety of strategic, planning and financial roles. He is Chairman of Watercare Services Ltd and is a former director of the Fonterra Co-operative Group.

Mr Hawkins says his appointment as Chairman comes at a time when Southern Cross is likely to play an even more significant role in the country’s health sector.

“As one of the country’s largest healthcare organisations we are ready, willing and able to look at a range of initiatives that will enhance people’s access to quality health services. We’re doing that now in health insurance, private hospitals and travel insurance but we think there are opportunities to push into other health fields to deliver value for New Zealanders.”

ENDS

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