Growing up with Andy, Helen saw first-hand the importance of supporting others. She began her career as a social worker with CCS Disability Action, and later took on leadership roles – setting up departments and delivering health projects nationally.
“Then I did my project management certification and went on to become President of the Project Management Institute New Zealand.”
With her health background and her project management nous, Helen was soon leading national task forces. Her career has spanned New Zealand and Australia, including significant work with Health Infrastructure NSW in recent years – but Te Waipounamu has always had her heart.
“I’m based in Queenstown. I’m very much a mountain girl – and I like being able to experience a buzzing town that’s got a small-town community and vibrant international connections.”
It’s that link to the south that interested Helen in the Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) role, which represents the Government on the infrastructure component of the build.
“I was interested because of the scale and complexity of the project. But most importantly – it’s going to be my hospital. I’ve done some incredible projects in other countries – but this is my home, this is my hospital.”
Helen says the new hospital gives us the chance to be country-leading – particularly in the digital space.
“We have an opportunity to do something unique around digital – and we need that because of how rural and remote many of our communities are. I’m really committed to having amazing health services in our region”
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Ground broken for ground-breaking Wellness Hub
Keep up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations
Te Whatu Ora Southern team wins heartfelt national award
Mental Health Awareness Week: 26 September to 2 October
Spent time in hospital? We want to hear from you!
