The Bay of Plenty District Health Board has announced Helen Mason as their new CEO.

Board chair Sally Webb made the announcement this week, saying the board is delighted with the appointment.

Helen Mason is the new CEO of the Bay of Plenty District Health Board. Photo: Supplied.

Helen will replace incumbent Phil Cammish, who is retiring on January 29 after 10 years in the role.

'Phil has made a valuable contribution to both the Bay of Plenty DHB and the community we serve in his role as Chief Executive,” says Sally.

'He should be proud of the progress this DHB has made under his leadership.

'Helen brings with her not only strong knowledge and experience with the BOPDHB, but also her recent experience as a Harkness Fellow, where she had the opportunity to expand her skill set internationally.

'Helen is no stranger to the BOPDHB having been with us for 17 years working in a number of roles, most recently as the General Manager Innovation and Special Projects and formerly as Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Planning and Funding.

'The Board is excited about the future of health in the Bay of Plenty, with Helen leading an executive team and staff of experienced and dedicated people.

'The Bay of Plenty District Health Board is well positioned to lead health developments not only in the Bay of Plenty, but also nationally.”

Helen started her career in health as a registered nurse and midwife before moving into the private health sector and the pharmaceutical industry.

Originally from Zimbabwe, she has also worked in Scotland, England and Australia.

Helen has held a number of positions at the Bay of Plenty District Health Board. She started as a Flexi nurse at Tauranga Hospital, before becoming a Nurse Manager and then a Decision Support Advisor.

As General Manager Planning and Funding she was accountable for leading strategic planning and for purchasing a wide range of primary and secondary health care services.

As Chief Operating Officer, Helen led the delivery of secondary health services through hospitals in Tauranga and Whakatane and community health centres at Opotiki, Te Kaha and Murupara.