Just four months before the end of her term, Margie Apa steps down as CEO of Te Whatu Ora
After serving as the chief executive of Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand) for nearly three years, Margie Apa has announced her decision to step down from her position. The move comes just four months before her term was set to end, signaling a shift in leadership for the organization.
Dr Dale Bramley, the national director of planning, funding, and outcomes, will take over as the interim CEO following Apa’s departure. In a statement, Apa expressed her desire to make way for a different leadership approach to guide Te Whatu Ora through its ongoing reset phase.
The Larger Context: Navigating Financial Challenges and Organizational Changes
Te Whatu Ora has been facing financial challenges, prompting the need for budget cuts and cost-saving measures to address its financial woes. These efforts have resulted in a reallocation of funds from digital and data initiatives to bolster frontline services. Last year, a commissioner was appointed to oversee the organization’s financial restructuring.
Commissioner Lester Levy described the reset as a significant change in direction for Health New Zealand, emphasizing the need for a realignment of priorities to ensure the organization’s sustainability. Apa’s resignation was a mutually agreed-upon decision, reflecting the need for a fresh perspective to navigate the challenges ahead.
In her role as CEO, Apa played a pivotal role in leading the transition of New Zealand’s health system from regional district health boards into a single entity. Her leadership during this critical period, amidst the challenges of a global pandemic, was instrumental in driving progress and expanding access to healthcare services.
Looking ahead, Te Whatu Ora has initiated a formal recruitment process to find the next chief executive to lead the organization. The position will oversee an organization of unprecedented scale, with a large workforce, substantial annual revenue, and a significant asset base.
As Te Whatu Ora prepares for a new chapter under fresh leadership, the organization remains committed to delivering high-quality healthcare services to communities across New Zealand.
