As most of you know I handed in my resignation this week, after working as CEO of CM Health for the past 11 years. Since that happened I’ve had several people ask why the jump from CM Health to Te Papa in Wellington?
The simple answer is that after 33 years of health I was ready to pursue my other passion, which is in the field of arts and history.
Some of you may be aware that my first degree was in modern history and over the past couple of years I’ve got back in touch with my arts and culture side.
When the job opportunity at Te Papa came along it was a chance to bring those two threads together. Te Papa was one of the first places I visited when I first came to New Zealand. Its vision of changing hearts, minds and lives closely resembles the vision we have at CM Health which is why I was drawn to the role. Te Papa also has a unique role at the heart of New Zealand’s national conversation. Being an active part of that conversation is a big honor.
Making the decision to leave CM Health wasn’t easy. This is an incredibly special organisation full of incredibly special people. I’m so proud of what we have achieved and while I can say this has been the biggest job of my career it’s also been the most satisfying, challenging and humbling.
I truly believe we are one of the best performing health systems in Australasia and that’s down to the people who work here. I will miss your tenacity, passion, commitment and burning desire to provide the best healthcare and experience for the people who come under our care.
After 11 years CM Health gets into your blood. Our culture, diversity and values make us the unique organisation we are today.
My last day at CM Health will be in May and over the next few days I’ll be working with our Executive Leadership Team on a transition plan. While a big part of me will remain at CM Health, I’m incredibly excited about the future. Rest assured I shall be keeping tabs on how you are doing.
As for the people who have asked why I’m moving to windy Wellington, it can’t beat the unpredictable weather we have experienced in Auckland lately.
Geraint
