Referees for Karl told us of the many innovation projects he has led, and that they have been particularly impressed by his leadership in eHealth and eMental Health. They described his multiple projects, and how he had approached each one with enthusiasm and the careful consideration it takes to bring people along on the journey of change. They acknowledged his obvious vision for the future, saying  he constantly displays both energy and enthusiasm in his endeavour to bring the best health services possible to his community—the integrity, focus, innovation, and “can do” attitude that he brings was described as inspiring.

Karl was a practising Clinical Psychologist before moving into various management and leadership roles. He was described as looking for opportunity for his community at every turn, and working in a collegial manner with all people, irrespective of their station in life. He has built up the organisation he currently leads into an excellent forward-looking rural health service provider, now employing 120 people. In the 11 years he has been leading this organisation, he has focussed on innovations to ensure the people of that region have access to a wide range of sustainable services.

Referees described Karl as having the sort of commitment that leads to lasting change and improvement, and stated that New Zealand will be a healthier place because of the work he has undertaken. As examples of just a few of the places he is demonstrating that commitment, Karl is current Chair of the NZ Institute of Rural Health, is seconded to the Southern DHB’s Commissioner team in Dunedin, and he was recently appointed by the Minister of Health to the Health Workforce NZ Advisory Board.*

Our recipient is highly worthy of this award and we join his referees in congratulating him whole-heartedly.

*All details current as at the time of the award (November 2019)