Tech Users Summit 2024

Unlocking our digital future

Join us for the TUANZ Tech Users Summit 2024 on Thursday 12 September for a day of inspiring speakers, table discussions and networking at the Grand Millennium Hotel in Auckland.

This year TUANZ is delighted to be co-hosting this event with the Digital Boost Alliance and the Digital Health Association. Together, we will focus on the newest developments in tech, including AI, ensuring online safety and security, embracing off-site technologies, forthcoming advancements in digital health, and exploring what’s next in equitable connectivity.

This event is the ultimate gathering of tech users and industry decision makers. It is a great opportunity to forge valuable connections, foster strategic relationships, and to be at the forefront of the evolving technology space.

TUANZ

As the independent technology user’s association for Aotearoa, TUANZ aims to build on its history of leading and achieving positive change. Our goal is to mobilise users across all parts of society and the economy, ensuring they are aware of the opportunities and upcoming developments in technology.

For the first time in 10 years, TUANZ is proud to re-launch our Member Awards. These awards will recognise outstanding member contributions to digital excellence in the past, present, and future, with a focus on members and initiatives that help our association achieve its goals for Aotearoa.

The Digital Boost Alliance

The Alliance was established to help members develop commitments that will collectively drive digital acceleration in Aotearoa. Our members work to motivate and inspire businesses, communities and individuals to lift their use and knowledge of digital technology by providing free, discounted or subsidised digital offers.

Our movement includes key players in our digital economy who want Aotearoa to become a high performing digital nation faster. The broader the alliance of organisations and partners that join us, the greater the reach, influence and impact we can make.

The Digital Health Association

The Digital Health Association has grown to have a large membership of 200+ organisations and is the peak industry body for the digital health sector in Aotearoa, New Zealand. We have extensive reach across the health and disability system that enables our members to be part of a strong, influential, and relevant association that ensures the importance of digital health is ‘front and centre’ in everything we do.

Following recent announcements, this industry-focused event comes at a crucial time and provides an opportunity to unite and collaborate on how we innovate, evolve, and explore the opportunities available within the current climate and constraints. It’s time to engage in meaningful conversations about how we can galvanise as a community and sector to advance digital health.

Possible questions to consider:

How can the industry help unlock the digital future to advance technology in the health sector?
What other investment opportunities are available for further growth and advancement?
How can we continue to evolve digital health despite current constraints?
How can we unite as a community to provide the best solutions for frontline workers and patients across the health system?

The event agenda will include plenary discussions relevant to members of all organisations, along with breakaway speakers, panels, and discussions targeted specifically at the digital health sector and the DHA membership.

We look forward to your participation in what promises to be a landmark event for the tech and digital health sectors.

WHEN: Thursday 12 September
WHERE: Grand Millennium Hotel, Auckland

Premier Partner

Partner Opportunities

If you’re interested in partnering with us on this year’s event, please get in touch for our prospectus.

Tech Users Summit 2024 Programme

TUANZ Sessions
DHA Sessions
Digital Boost Alliance Sessions

09:00

Welcome & Powhiri

09:15

Opening Video Presentation

Hon Shane Reti – Minister of Health

09:30

Keynote: The future tech in your health journey

Leigh Donoghue – Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora

10:00

Disease Intelligence – AI and Big Data

One of the most exciting applications of the newest AI technology is in the area of health. Greg is the Managing Director of Techion, an Otago based company working to enable digital intelligence and analysis for animals, people and our environment..

Greg Mirams – Techion

10:20

Introducing RAD (Recycle a Device)

Bronwyn Scott – Digital Futures

10:30

Morning Tea

11:00

Strengthening Cyber Security – what do we have to do as a nation?

This panel will share on the actions that are needed at the individual, organisational and national level, so that we can enhance our resilience to cyber-attacks, protect our critical infrastructure, and foster a safe and secure digital environment for all.

Tom Roberts – CERT

Mathew Graham – Workday

11:45

Keynote Presentation – The Future of More

This presentation explores the digitalisation journey for small businesses in Aotearoa, the challenges experienced and the opportunities to embrace digital tools to create a ‘future of more’ for both themselves and our economy.

Bridget Snelling – Xero

12:15

TUANZ AGM

12:30

Lunch

13:15

AI Today: where we stand and what’s next

Our panellists will delve into the significant advancements in AI in recent years, focusing on key business areas such as hardware, software as a service, and networks. By examining the future of AI, the panel will provide valuable insights into the transformative impact of this technology on our lives and businesses.

Oliver Hill – HP New Zealand

Ben Sheehan – Salesforce NZ

Ian Ross – Ericsson APAC

14:00

Panel Presentations: What innovative ways can we expand our skill base in technology?

We know that there is a significant part of our workforce that are underrepresented in tech roles, and provide a huge opportunity for us if we can develop diverse pathways for talent., Our panelists will share innovative ways that employers can make the most of this diverse talent pool.

Michelle Allbon – The Fractional Directory

Mela Lush – Jobs for Mums

Rahui Brownlee – Contact Energy and Tech Taniwha

14:45

Keynote: The future of EFTPOS

New Zealand was a world leader in the uptake of EFTPOS upon its introduction, but we are now in danger of losing this cost-effective means of payment with the rise of other methods. In this session, Maxine will explore the transformative impact of technology on the future of payments, diving into how innovations like Open Banking, digital currencies, and the evolution of EFTPOS are reshaping the financial landscape.

Maxine Elliott – Worldline

15:00

Afternoon Tea

15:30

Panel Presentations: How do we make sure everyone in our communities thrives?

With the continued drive to digitise Government, transform ways of working, and improve health outcomes through the use of technology, it’s critically important that no one in Aotearoa is left out. Panellists will discuss how to ensure everyone thrives and no one misses out on critical services.

Cathy Hardinge – Digital Seniors

Kris Dempster-Rivett – DECA

Jess Morgan-French – Collaborative Aotearoa

16:00

Keynote: Setting the scene for a digital future in Aotearoa

Google Fellow Urs Hölzle will explore the transformative power of AI, from its impact on industries to its potential to solve global challenges. Urs will also delve into the future of AI and its implications for New Zealand. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain insights from one of the leading voices in global tech innovation.

Urs Hölzle – Google Fellow

16:30

Ministerial Keynote

Hon Judith Collins – Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology

17:00

Closing Comments

Craig Young – Chief Executive Officer, TUANZ

17:15

Networking Drinks

17:30

TUANZ Member Awards

In 2024, TUANZ is proud to launch our new Member Awards, with a focus on our members and initiatives that help the association achieve its goals for Aotearoa. These awards will recognise outstanding member contributions to digital excellence in the past, present and future. Additionally, we will acknowledge those who have made a significant contribution through the media and community mahi over the past 12 months.

19:00

Evening Ends

09:00

Welcome & Powhiri

09:15

Opening Video Presentation

Hon Shane Reti – Minister of Health

09:30

Keynote: The future tech in your health journey

Leigh Donoghue – Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora

10:00

The growth of off-site computing – what does it mean for New Zealand’s resiliency?

One of the key priorities for CIO’s in 2024 is the continued growth in their demand for off premise computing. Richard Adams will share on the current status of the market in New Zealand as well as discuss the risk that comes with relying completely on cloud solutions.

Richard Adams – CCL

10:20

Introducing RAD (Recycle a Device)

Bronwyn Scott – Digital Futures

10:30

Morning Tea

11:00

Keynote: Aging gracefully – Technology, Affordability, Dignity and the Future of Care

Tony Wai – Third Age Healthcare

11:15

Panel discussion and Q&A – Unlocking our digital future

Facilitator: Dr Tom Varghese – Aceso Health

John Macaskill-Smith – Spark Health

Bindi Norwell – ProCare

Niru Rajakumar – Orion Health

Dr Lara Hopley – Health New Zealand

12:00

Keynote: Leveraging Technology for Economic Stability and Productivity in Healthcare: Bridging Past Lessons with Future Promise

Sir Bill English

12:15

Audience participation – Gaining feedback from industry

12:30

Lunch

13:15

Keynote: Technology to address workforce challenges

Dr Frances Hughes

13:30

Panel Discussion and Q&A – Innovating in other parts of the sector – what opportunities are available for growth and advancement?

Facilitator: Mike Hill – Microsoft

Jess Morgan-French – Collaborative Aotearoa

Dr Mataroria Lyndon – Tend Health

Ta’ifau Malota – Mahitahi Hauora

Mark Phillips – Southern Cross Healthcare

14:10

Panel Discussion and Q&A – How do we advance the interoperability service model to support scalable solutions by working together and without disrupting each other?

Facilitator: John Williams – Healthpoint

Martin Lowis – Pharmacy Guild of NZ

Gabe Rijpma – Aceso Health

Samuel Wong – Health New Zealand

Erin Currie – Philips

14:50

Audience participation – Gaining feedback from industry

15:00

Afternoon Tea

15:30

Panel Presentations: How do we make sure everyone in our communities thrives?

With the continued drive to digitise government, transform ways of working, and improve health outcomes through the use of technology, it’s critically important that no one in Aotearoa is left behind. Panellists will discuss how to ensure everyone thrives and no one misses out on critical services.

Cathy Hardinge – Digital Seniors

Kris Dempster-Rivett – DECA

Jess Morgan-French – Collaborative Aotearoa

16:00

Keynote: Setting the scene for a digital future in Aotearoa

Urs Hölzle – Google Fellow

16:30

Ministerial Keynote

Hon Judith Collins – Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology

17:00

Closing Comments

Craig Young – Chief Executive Officer, TUANZ

17:15

Networking Drinks

17:30

TUANZ Awards

19:00

Evening Ends

09:00

Welcome & Powhiri

09:15

Opening Video Presentation

Hon Shane Reti – Minister of Health

09:30

Keynote: The future tech in your health journey

Leigh Donoghue – Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora

10:00

The growth of off-site computing – what does it mean for New Zealand’s resiliency?

Richard Adams – CCL

10:20

Introducing RAD (Recycle a Device)

Bronwyn Scott – Digital Futures

10:30

Morning Tea

11:00

Member Workshop 1

11:45

Keynote Presentation

12:15

TUANZ AGM

12:30

Lunch

13:15

Member Workshop 2

14:00

Panel Presentations: Our talent shortage – what can we do about it?

14:45

Keynote: The impact of technology on the future of payments

Maxine Elliott – Worldline

15:00

Afternoon Tea

15:30

Panel Presentations: How do we make sure everyone in our communities thrives?

Cathy Hardinge – Digital Seniors

Kris Dempster-Rivett – DECA

Jess Morgan-French – Collaborative Aotearoa

16:00

Keynote: Setting the scene for a digital future in Aotearoa

Urs Hölzle – Google Fellow

16:30

Ministerial Keynote

Hon Judith Collins – Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology

17:00

Closing Comments

Craig Young – Chief Executive Officer, TUANZ

17:15

Networking Drinks

17:30

TUANZ Awards

19:00

Evening Ends

Tech Users Summit 2024 Speakers

Hon Judith Collins KC

Judith Collins is the Attorney-General, Minister of Defence, Minister for Digitising Government, Minister Responsible for the GCSB, Minister Responsible for the NZSIS, Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Minister for Space, and Lead Coordination Minister for the Government’s Response to the Royal Commission’s Report into the Terrorist Attack on the Christchurch Mosques. She is the MP for Papakura and was first elected to Parliament to represent the seat of Clevedon in 2002.

Hon Shane Reti

Dr Shane Reti is the Minister of Health and Minister for Pacific Peoples. He is the MP for Whangarei.

Dr Reti’s career began in family medicine and dermatology in Whangarei where he practiced for 16 years. He served three terms on the Board of the Northland DHB. He was awarded a QSM for Public Service in the 2006 New Year Honours List.

In 2007 Dr Reti was named the NZ Harkness Fellow to Harvard, where he was promoted to Assistant Professor.

In 2014 Dr Reti became the first Māori MP to win the Whangarei seat which he held from 2014 to 2020 and won again in 2023.

Dr Reti is the first New Zealand graduate Māori Minister of Health.

Leigh Donoghue

Leigh Donoghue is the Chief Data and Digital Officer at Health NZ Te Whatu Ora.

Leigh joined Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora in May 2023 from Accenture in Australia where he held the role of Health Industry Lead for the Asia Pacific region. He has 25 years’ experience in digital health, including leading complex, multi-year change
programmes across diverse teams and delivery challenges. This includes post-merger integration, the national rollout of electronic medical record
systems across primary and secondary care at the National Health Service (England), introducing a national electronic health platform in Australia, and transforming national
telehealth services in New Zealand.

His passion is co-creating the future of healthcare, using data, technology and the knowledge held within communities to create large-scale, sustainable change. He holds a M. Commerce (Hons), University of New South Wales, and a B. Engineering
(Hons), University of Tasmania.

Oliver Hill, Managing Director, HP New Zealand

Ollie started with HP in 2004. During his time with HP he has worked within Outsourced Managed Services, Partner Management, Enterprise Account Management before leading the commercial channel team and the printing systems channel and enterprise teams.

As Managing Director, he leads the New Zealand business including the NZ Leadership team and is a board member of HP New Zealand.

Passionate about diversity and inclusion, Ollie is heavily involved in HP New Zealand’s internal Business Resource Groups. He sees this as an enabler of greater innovation, as well as supporting a rich team culture and workplace fuelled by diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Ollie believes in the power of teams and cultivating a positive culture to achieve results through a growth mindset.

Ollie also has a particular interest in sustainability and has been appointed as a Director of the TechCollect NZ board to work on initiatives to help minimise and manage e-waste.

His passion for technology extends across the below areas:

Digital manufacturing
Cyber security
AI

Ben Sheehan, Regional Vice President, Sales, Salesforce

Ben Sheehan, Regional Vice President, oversees Salesforce’s SMB business in Aotearoa. Based in Auckland, Ben leads a high-performing team dedicated to advancing their customers through the use of cutting-edge technologies. He is passionate about the Kiwi SMB market, helping businesses of all sizes become customer-centric, technology-driven organisations. With over 15 years of experience in the New Zealand technology industry, Ben has extensive expertise in AI and customer experience technology platforms.

Urs Hölzle, Google Fellow

Urs joined Google as its first vice president of engineering after having been an associate professor of computer science at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Until 2023, he was leading the teams building and operating the infrastructure that powers Google’s services and Google Cloud. Today, Urs focuses on solving technical challenges as a Google Fellow. With a good search engine, you can find out much more about him.

Craig Young, CEO, TUANZ

Craig is passionate about the digital technology and communications industry because of the opportunity it offers for improving business and personal lives in New Zealand. He is currently the Chief Executive of TUANZ (the Technology Users Association) which is helping New Zealand make the most of the digitally connected world. TUANZ is an independent member based organisation representing users of tech which educates and advocates for the uptake of digital technology and the improvement of communication services across NZ including rural and regional areas. Over more than 35 years TUANZ has a proud reputation of providing leadership in representing the views and needs of the people and businesses that rely on technology every day. In 2021 TUANZ partnered with MBIE in developing the Digital Boost Alliance, and in his role as CEO, Craig is responsible for leading the work that promotes and manages the operations of the Alliance.

Craig is an advocate for inclusivity, and equity especially in the digital technology sector in Aotearoa New Zealand. He was instrumental in the launch of TUANZ’s future leaders programme, FLINT, in 2016. He is the joint Chair of the Affordable Connectivity Constellation with the Digital Equity Coalition Aotearoa, and a trustee at the 2020 Trust.

Andrew Cushen, Principal, Cushen Consulting

Andrew has spent most of the last 20 years working in New Zealand telecommunications, including time with a number of large operators, small operators and not-for-profits.

Andrew now runs Cushen Consulting, his own consultancy practice, providing corporate affairs and strategy advice across a variety of industries and clients. This includes serving as the inaugural Chief Executive of the Climate Forestry Association, Co-Chair of DPMC’s Multi Stakeholder Group to strengthen resilience to disinformation, and strategic advisor to Gravity Internet.

2024 is the fourth TUANZ Rural Connectivity Symposium that Andrew has been MC for, and he is delighted to be back discussing how to drive ever better connectivity for rural New Zealand.

Maxine Elliott, CEO NZ, Worldline

Maxine is Chief Executive Officer NZ at Worldline, Aotearoa’s leading payment network.

Maxine has over 15 years of experience in the Telecommunications and Digital Industries. Maxine was CEO of Ultrafast Fibre and more recently Vocus NZ before joining Worldline in 2017. In her current role as CEO, she leads a team taking the future of payments digital, working with Banks and Retailers to provide innovations in local payments to give New Zealand retailers a competitive edge both in store and online.

Maxine has a passion for helping NZ businesses succeed in the digital world.

Ian Ross, Head of Private Cellular Networks – ANZ, Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions

Ian is the Head of Private Cellular Networks in Australia and New Zealand for Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions. Ian brings over 25 years of local, regional and global telecommunications experience across equipment manufacturers, service providers and systems integrators; all with a focus on the practical application of technology by enterprises.

Ian is an industry-recognised authority on private 4G and 5G networks and their use by industry. While he has specialty in the resources and energy sector, he has worked with leading enterprises across multiple verticals using these networks to drive digitalization, automation and workforce transformation agendas.

In his role, Ian is responsible for Ericsson’s private cellular networks business in Australia and New Zealand and is one of the leaders of Ericsson Enterprise within Asia Pacific. He works both with end customers and Ericsson resellers on wireless strategy, providing subject matter expertise and guidance for how 5G can be used to resolve operational challenges and realise digital ambitions.

Michelle Allbon, CEO & Co-Founder, The Fractional Directory

Michelle Allbon is CEO and Co-Founder of The Fractional Directory and operates independently as a Fractional Chief Revenue Officer (fCRO) for companies both in ANZ and remote globally to the US and Europe. She brings 14 years of experience working in the technology sector, specialising in sales and revenue strategy. Throughout her career, she has worked in a range of geographies and markets, beginning her career in San Francisco working with early start-ups, to then leading revenue strategy for Fortune 100 companies including Oracle and Cisco in the US, Europe and Middle East markets.

Immigrating to New Zealand in 2020, Michelle is passionate about Leadership education, sharing global best practices in innovation, and is Board Growth Chair of the Fractional Leadership Alliance (FLA) which is defining standards for the emerging Fractional industry. She also believes in the Fractional model as a strong solution for women leaders who are also mothers. Michelle will welcome her second child in October.

Charles Beasley, Strategic Partnerships Director, SAPRO Consulting & CRO

Charles, with a Master of Bioscience Enterprise, has dedicated his career to advancing novel medicines in Clinical Research. As Strategic Partnerships Director at SAPRO, a boutique consulting firm, he leverages his expertise in the field. Charles founded Good Clinical and hosts the Good Clinical Podcast, aiming to spotlight advancements in medicine and human health while promoting R&D and collaboration across Aotearoa. His passion for connecting industry leaders and facilitating discussions about exciting projects led to the podcast’s creation. With a background in event hosting and team management, Charles has driven significant growth and engagement in the clinical research space through his podcast.

Dr Mataroria Lyndon, Co-Founder, Tend Health

Dr. Lyndon, a Māori clinician, academic, and governance leader, co-founded Tend Health, one of Aotearoa’s largest primary healthcare providers. He’s a Senior Lecturer in Medical Education at the University of Auckland and previously held leadership roles in Māori health at Mahitahi Hauora PHO and Counties Manukau DHB.

A Fulbright Scholar, he completed his MPH at Harvard and is pursuing a PhD in medical education. Dr. Lyndon was named Deloitte IPANZ Young Professional of the Year.

His governance experience includes roles with the Health Promotion Agency, Te Aka Whai Ora Māori Health Authority, Northland DHB, Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, and Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Foundation.

Bindi Norwell, Group Chief Executive, ProCare

Bindi is a visionary leader with over 25 years’ experience across health, property, professional services, and telecommunications sectors. As Group Chief Executive of ProCare, she leverages her extensive commercial leadership and governance expertise to improve equitable health outcomes for all New Zealanders. Bindi excels in organisational growth, technological innovation, and transformational change. Her executive career spans New Zealand, Australia, and the UK. Currently, she serves as a Director for CareHQ, Chair of Fresh Minds Board, and Deputy Chair of the Auckland Branch of the Institute of Directors. Bindi’s governance experience includes roles with Appliance Connexion, Whakarongorau Aotearoa, EMA, Marketing Association, and Warehouse Group.

Niru Rajakumar, VP Asia-Pacific, Orion Health

Niru Rajakumar is the Vice President of the Asia-Pacific region at Orion Health. With over a decade of experience at Orion Health, I lead a team of 55 across five countries, driving digital transformation in healthcare. I am passionate about equipping care teams with the digital tools they need to enhance patient care. My approach to success includes a clear vision, strong customer relationships, and a data-driven strategy for market growth. I’ve recently revitalized our Asia-Pacific teams to align with Orion Health’s vision and values. I am committed to making a meaningful impact, helping our customers deliver better care across the region and in Aotearoa. Orion Health, proudly Kiwi-owned, provides healthcare solutions in 17 countries across five continents. I am dedicated to bringing a global perspective to improving health outcomes for all New Zealanders.

Dr Tom Varghese, Sales and Marketing Manager, Aceso Health

Tom is an orthodontist turned healthcare advocate. He is currently the Sales and Marketing Manager with Aceso Health, based in Auckland. His passions are people, equity, health, and technology and his goal is to make healthcare better for all.

With a keen interest in governance, Tom has been on a journey to actively contribute to the healthcare governance landscape in New Zealand. He also currently sits on the Men’s Health Trust NZ Board of Trustees.

Jess Morgan-French, CEO, Collaborative Aotearoa

Jess Morgan-French is the CEO of Collaborative Aotearoa, where she leads initiatives to enhance primary healthcare delivery across New Zealand through innovation, model of care design and collaboration. With experience in the primary healthcare sector, Jess is known for her strategic vision and her commitment to creating more efficient and equitable health systems. She is a respected thought leader and is passionate about the future of primary healthcare, equity for Māori and driving impactful change in the industry.

John Macaskill-Smith, CEO, Spark Health

John, CEO of Spark Health, is a transformational leader and respected innovator in the health sector. Known for his engaging storytelling, he excels at influencing digital change. His diverse experience includes roles with the Ministry of Health and HFA, as well as pioneering work in Primary and Community Care, where he introduced the Health Care Home model and leveraged big data.

John’s international expertise spans health reform and clinical model modernisation in the UK, U.S., and Middle East. He played a key role in Primary Care Start Ups, notably with Tend Health, where he spearheaded the expansion of their clinic network from 1 to 25 locations.

John Williams, Chief Compliance Officer, Healthpoint

John has been an executive director of Healthpoint since it began in 2004. He has more than 25 years’ experience working in the health sector in Australia and New Zealand. His diverse background includes senior management roles in multinationals in and outside New Zealand.

John chairs the DHA’s Digital Interoperability Industry Group (DIIG). The DIIG brings together the New Zealand health and disability sector’s ‘digital interoperability enablers’. These are leading organisations in Aotearoa, New Zealand, who provide innovative healthcare software solutions and services.

Dr Lara Hopley, National Chief Clinical Informatics Officer, Te Whatu Ora

Dr Lara Hopley described as an anaesthetist by trade and temperament is the Chief Clinical Informatics Officer, Te Whatu Ora Data Digital Service and still works part time as a clinical Anaesthetist at Waitematā. As a Specialist Anaesthetist she was drawn by necessity into the murky world of clinical information management, specifically to foster virtuous cycles. After arriving in New Zealand 20 odd (very odd) years ago, she was first drawn into the world of Human factors and continuous quality control, this led into an appreciation of ergonomics and the importance of “making it easy to do the right thing, hard to do the wrong”. What followed was a lot of years of working with and for various digital teams, more because of “access envy” than she will admit, but also to make the working lives of clinicians better through technology. With the inception of – Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora, New Zealand finally joined the world in having a place at the executive table for clinical informatics a role she feared but picked up to bring a legitimate, whole-of-system clinical perspective with the person and whānau not just at the centre but having the ability to lead. Championing just one basic need – find ways to remove the re-work that is rife in our systems.

Martin Lowis, Senior Advisory Pharmacist, Pharmacy Guild of NZ

After an initial detour into engineering, Martin spent over 25 years in the healthcare sector in various roles. As an experienced healthcare professional and pharmacist with a strong IT background, Martin specialises in optimising pharmacy operations and implementing innovative services and procedures. He is passionate about mentoring, strategic management, and leading multicultural teams. His extensive international experience spans both corporate and rural settings, where he excells in problem-solving, financial and resource management, and ultimately, patient care. Currently, he serves as the Senior Advisory Pharmacist at the Pharmacy Guild, a role that allows me to give back to a profession I remain deeply passionate about.

Tony Wai, CEO, Third Age Health

Tony is the CEO of Third Age Health, the leader in managed healthcare services for Aged Residential Care Facilities, Private Hospitals, and Secure Dementia facilities. He has over 20 years of experience in finance and management, working across healthcare, technology, and FMCG sectors. Prior to Third Age Health, Tony served as CFO and GM of Corporate Services at ProCare Health, overseeing technology, commercial, and financial functions. He also held senior roles at Atlantis Healthcare, Fonterra Brands, and Fletcher Challenge. Tony has been a DHA board member for five years, currently serving as Deputy Chair, and has contributed significantly to the organization’s success. He also serves on the board of Kaikaranga and other health organisations, and has consulted for the Ministry of Health. Tony is a fully qualified accountant, holding both NZ (CA) and UK (CIMA) qualifications.

Bridget Snelling, Country Manager, Xero

Bridget is the Country Manager for Xero in Aotearoa, New Zealand responsible for overseeing the execution of the country’s go-to-market strategy, revenue, market share, and advancing Xero’s brand as a leading small business platform. She has almost 20 years leadership experience within global financial services, technology, and media industries, and prior to Xero, held strategic marketing and management positions at TVNZ, Orion Health and ANZ. Bridget lives in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland with her husband, three children and dog.

Bronwyn Scott, General Manager, Digital Future Aotearoa

Raised in Bridge Pa, Te Matau-a-Māui (Hawkes Bay), Bronwyn is a champion for digital equity in Aotearoa – making sure our tamariki and rangatahi have what they need to thrive in our increasingly digital world.

She’s the General Manager of the charity Digital Future Aotearoa, who each year provide learning an access opportunities to thousands of people, moving them from being passive consumers of technology to active creators and innovators!

Digital Future Aotearoa offers a number of programmes you might have heard of: Code Club, Recycle A Device, Ōtautahi Outreach and Digital Pīkau.

Mela Lush, Founder, Jobs for Mums

Mela Lush is a devoted mother, social entrepreneur, and the founder of Jobs for Mums, a social enterprise that connects parents and caregivers with flexible work opportunities in New Zealand. With a profound commitment to reshaping work culture to become more family-friendly and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, she is dedicated to breaking down barriers for women to enter underrepresented sectors like tech. By dismantling employment obstacles, Mela is rewriting the playbook on work, one success story at a time, fostering success for both employers and families.

Greg Mirams, Managing Director, Techion

Founder and Managing Director of Techion Greg Mirams has a passion for innovation and farming, propelling him to the forefront of digital diagnosis and data management.

Greg’s vision for Techion extends beyond animal health into digital intelligence for people and our environment. Greg is currently leading an innovative healthcare project involving Awanui – New Zealand’s largest diagnostic provider and Microsoft. The project will validate an end to end solution for digital microscopy tests on Techion’s platform.

Mathew Graham, Principal, Global Trust Office, Workday

Cathy Hardinge, Chief Executive, Digital Seniors

Kris Dempster-Rivett, Steward – Digital Equity Council Aotearoa, DECA

Sir Bill English, Board Director

Bill sits on the board of Wesfarmers Ltd, Todd Corporation and the Paul Ramsay Foundation.

He is a director and investor with his family in private companies serving primary production, charities and disabled people. He consults to NZ and Australian companies and governments. He is married to Dr Mary English who runs her own medical practice and they have 6 adult children.

Dr Frances Hughes – RN, BA, MA, DNURS, FNZCMHN, FAAN, JP, CNZM

Dr Hughes is a practicing Registered Nurse with over 35 years’ nursing and an international health experience. She is a recognised leader in her field and has a BA, MA and Doctorate in Nursing.

Dr Hughes has held executive management and nursing positions on a global level and was formerly Group General Manager for clinical and Care for Oceania Health Care (LTD), Deputy Director of Mental health, Professor of Nursing and Mental Health (UOA), Chief Nurse for New Zealand, Chief Nursing and Midwifery officer for Queensland and the Chief Executive of the International Council of Nurses ( Geneva). She worked for the World Health Organisation with 16 countries in the Pacific.

Dr Hughes is highly decorated and recognised for her national and international leadership and achievements, she was made an Officer and Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2006 and 2019 for services to nursing, mental health and health. Her specialty areas are Mental Health, Aged care, health care systems, health workforce, psycho social emergency response post/disaster management and Public policy. She was the first nurse to be awarded the Harkness Fellowship in Health Care Policy (US equivalent of Rhode Scholar) from the Commonwealth Fund in New York, a 2013 Fulbright Senior Scholarship followed by a Distinguished Alumni Service Award from Massey University in New Zealand in 2013. In 2016 she received the Chancellors Award for Excellence and the Faculty Alumni award from the University of Technology Sydney. She has served and chaired boards both in New Zealand , Rwanda, Switzerland , Queensland and USA.

Dr Frances Hughes has consulted for many global organisations within USA, Europe, New Zealand, Australia and Pacific. She is extremely well connected and networked across the globe, and has been actively engaged in UN agency meetings for over two decade through being both government and NGO representative. She has established two mental health charities in Australia and New Zealand and board member on three NGOs in Rwanda, Switzerland and Queensland. All focussing on vulnerable populations.

Frances is an established scholar and has extensive publication record, publishing her first book in 2007 “Have Your Say – How to Influence Public Policy”. Her scholarship and research interests are Mental Health, Health Policy and Nursing.

In 2018 she led global team to be the winner of MIT Global Solve challenge in frontline health care “Refugee Health Workforce, deploying blockchain tech to recertify refugee healthcare workers.

Frances in 2017 and 2020 was finalist in Westpac Women of Influence – Global category. Also, in 2020 she was selected to be one of the Women in Global Health’s 100+ Outstanding Nurses and Midwives- yonm.org.

Dr Hughes was appointed chair of the clinical and nursing leadership group (NLG) for NZ aged care association in January 2020, and with NLG led the Aged care COVID 19 response which included appointed to independent panel to review the COVID 19 clusters

In 2022 Frances was awarded Risk professional of the year from RISKnz for her work with managing COVID over the previous years.

Mike Hill, Technical Strategy Lead, Microsoft

Mike is a technical strategy lead for Microsoft New Zealand, with a focus on critical infrastructure and healthcare services. Mike works with NZ public and private sector organisations to accelerate business strategy with technology, advising on emerging and impactful market trends both locally and globally. Mike comes from a technology consulting background with business and technology transformation experience in the New Zealand government, financial and utility sectors.

Mark Phillips, Chief Digital Officer, Southern Cross Healthcare

Mark has 20 years of IT experience from within large organisations in New Zealand where he has led significant digital transformation and managed both core systems and customer-centric technologies.

As Chief Digital Officer of Southern Cross Healthcare, Mark is Auckland-based and leads the Digital Services teams, including the building and support of technology, applications, and infrastructure services used throughout Southern Cross Hospitals and the National Support Office.

Mark holds a Master of Management Studies (Management and Strategy) from Waikato University, as well as multiple professional certifications and industry awards.

Ta’ifau Malota, General Manager, Data and Digital, Mahitahi Hauora

Ta’ifau Malotā brings expertise in planning and problem-solving. In his leadership role as General Manager Digital & Data at Mahitahi Hauora PHE he has built his team around the focus of harnessing technology to drive innovation and improve health outcomes of whānau and communities in Tai Tokerau. With over 20 years of experience in the digital infrastructure and service delivery space he has developed a passion for leveraging technology to streamline processes and enhance efficiency.

Gabe Rijpma, CEO, Aceso Health

Gabe is a passionate technology leader who has spent the last 30 years dedicated to using technology as a force for good in both business and the public sector

For over 20 years, Gabe has been passionately committed to digital health, focusing on the innovative application of technology to enhance healthcare delivery. Currently, he serves as the CEO of Aceso Health, a company devoted to providing solutions that improve the care experience for both patients and providers

Before leading Aceso Health, Gabe spent 20 years at Microsoft, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s healthcare strategy across 22 markets in Asia, alongside holding technical and sales leadership positions in Australia, New Zealand, and the USA.

Samuel Wong, Manager – Channels Identity and Access, Health New Zealand

Samuel is responsible for leading Digital Health Identity services for enabling consumers and wider health sector workforce to publicly held information.

He has extensive insights, particularly focused on data-driven interoperability standards, population health delivery and consumer digital health engagement services, both in New Zealand and international systems. These experiences foster a discussion around future opportunities for New Zealand.

Erin Currie, NZ Country Manager, Philips

Erin is an experienced Commercial and Governance Leader in the healthcare sector with a career spanning 30 years. Her knowledge and expertise are in medical devices, equipment and digital healthcare across radiology, surgical specialties, cardiology, gastroenterology, and endoscopy. Originally a registered nurse, she then transitioned into medical device sales and developed an aptitude for management, commercial strategy, and governance.

Erin is currently New Zealand Country Manager for Philips Health Systems, part of the ANZ leadership team, after joining in November 2020. Previous roles included 6 years leading Olympus New Zealand, and 10 years with Medtronic in various roles including sales, sales management, and branch leadership Erin is passionate about the New Zealand healthcare sector and represents the industry as the Vice Chair of the Medical Technology Association of New Zealand (MTANZ). She also has a passion for personal development and is a founding member and Co-Chair of Women in HealthTech (WiHT).