Peter Alsop appointed as Chief of Staff at Te Whatu Ora

Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Chief Executive Fepulea’i Margie Apa has today announced the appointment of Peter Alsop as Chief of Staff.  

As Chief of Staff, Peter will be responsible for the overall coordination of the Chief Executive’s responsibilities across Te Whatu Ora. Including ensuring that Te Whatu Ora, as a newly established crown entity, follows the Board’s direction and meets Government expectations.

He will also ensure decision making at all levels takes a whole-of-Te Whatu Ora view, that we work alongside Te Aka Whai Ora, and that legislative and regulatory requirements are met.

The breadth of Peter’s responsibilities include advising the Chief Exectutive, managing the Board and ELT Secretariats, Ministerial and Government servicing, strategic engagement with the health sector, Chief Legal Counsel and supporting specialist advisory roles in Disability and Privacy.

Peter joins us from Te Pātaka Whaioranga Pharmac (also a crown entity) where he has had three stints, most recently as Director Engagement & Implementation.

He is passionate about the health reforms and the unique opportunity offered – for all involved – to reshape the system to better meet New Zealanders’ needs. With whānau whakapapa to Tikitiki in Tairawhiti, Peter is committed to achieving health equity for Māori and other priority populations. He will bring a strong focus on partnership with Te Aka Whai Ora – Māori Health Authority, Manatū Hauora – Ministry of Health, and our other health sector stakeholders.

Peter brings significant external relations and corporate services experience in government departments and Crown Entities, having led these functions in different contexts and sectors. As a leader, Peter stands for engagement and openness, for diversity and inclusion, giving effect to Te Tiriti, and for making great choices. He looks forward to leading the Chief Executive’s office in a way that is supportive and well-connected across Te Whatu Ora’s work. 

Peter starts with Te Whatu Ora on 30 January 2023.