Today we farewell our chief executive, Professor Kath McPherson, who has dedicated nearly five years to the Health Research Council, inspiring the team with her guidance and leadership through a time of significant change for health research.
A true champion for the sector and an advocate for HRC values, Kath has our wholehearted gratitude for all she's contributed to our organisation and how we work. Below are some words from her in signing off...
I can’t believe it’s nearly five years since I was appointed as chief executive at the HRC, and more than four years since senior colleagues from the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment visited our office to announce the strategic refresh. A lot has changed in the health research sector over these years. I am grateful for your support, collegiality, contributions to our processes, feedback on our system, and even for the regular challenges that have come my way – many of those have produced great discussions, and some have changed how we work. Thank you.
I’ve written a piece in the NZMJ Digest about a few important changes at the HRC that I know have pleased some and concerned others. One thing I know for sure is that in all we do, the HRC staff and Council are focused on supporting the very best health research for New Zealand and ensuring appropriate investment to do so. We are not there yet, but I think we have a stronger and more secure health research system. I wish you all well in your own contributions to advancing the health of our people and our country.
Ngā mihi nui koutou katoa.