Dear Health New Zealand,

I am requesting information under the Official Information Act 1982 regarding the process for selecting the next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Te Whatu Ora. Specifically, I would like details on how this process ensures leadership that is well-equipped to address the diverse healthcare needs of New Zealanders.

1. I would like a copy of the position description and selection criteria used for the CEO appointment, particularly regarding cultural competency and understanding of Māori health needs, clinical background or experience in the healthcare sector, and knowledge of healthcare challenges in rural and working-class communities.

2. I request any documents outlining how these factors are assessed and weighted in the selection process.

3. Please provide a list of the groups or organisations involved in the selection panel or advisory process, such as Māori health representatives, Pacific health experts, rural health advocates, unions, or clinical experts.

4. I would like copies of any policies or guidelines that ensure the panel is diverse and representative in terms of ethnicity, gender balance, clinical versus non-clinical expertise, and representation from rural or underserved communities.

5. I request any documents outlining processes to reduce bias in the selection process, such as guidelines on fair candidate evaluation or training provided to panel members on unconscious bias or equitable hiring.

6. I would also like to receive any documents explaining how the selection process is made transparent, including whether external advisors or independent reviewers were involved and how the decision will be communicated to the public.

7. If any public or stakeholder consultations were conducted on the qualities needed in a CEO, I would appreciate a summary of any feedback received and the names of organisations consulted (not individual names).

8. If some information is available in existing public documents, I would appreciate a reference to where I can find it.

9. If discussions on the CEO selection process have not yet taken place due to the recent resignation, I request information on when these discussions are expected to occur, the anticipated timeline for finalising the selection process, and when a formal process will begin. If no timeframe has been set, I would appreciate details on when this will be determined so I can submit a follow-up Official Information Act request at a later date.

10. Regarding the interim CEO, I request information on how their appointment was decided, what criteria were used to assess their suitability, and what measures are in place to ensure they are competent and fit for the role. Additionally, I would like to know if any formal performance evaluations are planned during their tenure and what oversight exists to ensure they are meeting the organisation’s strategic and operational goals.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.

Yours faithfully,

Jason Grey