Chief Executive of the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC), Professor Sunny Collings is stepping down in mid-August to join Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality and Safety Commission as its new chief executive.
Health Research Council Chair, Dr Lester Levy says the search for the next chief executive would begin in the coming days.
“I would like to thank Sunny for her service to the HRC and acknowledge her commitment to supporting high-impact, high-value health research that benefits all New Zealanders,” says Dr Levy.
“Sunny has overseen significant investment in research that improves health outcomes, strengthens the health system, and adds value to the nation’s science, innovation and technology system and the wider economy.
Professor Collings says it has been a privilege to lead the Health Research Council.
“In my time at the HRC I have seen the tangible difference research makes to improving health outcomes, the health system, and New Zealand as a whole. I’m extremely proud of the work done by the HRC team and our partners throughout the health and research sectors,” she says.
“New Zealand has some of the world’s most talented health researchers and it has been a great honour to advocate for and steward our precious health research resource.”
Professor Collings’ last day at the HRC will be 12 August 2025. Acting-chief executive duties will be shared by members of the HRC executive team until her successor is in place.
Dr Levy says the HRC is looking for someone to build on the organisation’s track record of supporting excellent research and innovation.
“Heading the HRC is an extraordinary opportunity to steer the direction and potential of health research in New Zealand, ensuring publicly funded research has high impact and real benefits for all New Zealanders,” Dr Levy says.
“On behalf of the Health Research Council, I want to congratulate Sunny on her appointment to the Health Quality and Safety Commission and wish her well in all her future endeavours.”