Former Director-General of Health Sir Ashley Bloomfield has taken the helm as ESR's Interim Chief Executive.
Sir Ashley took up the the role on 2 September, bringing a wealth of health leadership experience to an organisation that plays a pivotal role in health surveillance and protection for New Zealand, as well as in forensic science to support the justice sector.
In announcing his appointment, Board Chair Sarah Young said the Board was "delighted that someone of Ashley's calibre and experience is able to step in to lead ESR, working with the Senior Leadership Team.
"Many of you will know or have heard of Ashley. As well as becoming a household name as Director-General of Health during the COVID-19 pandemic, he has served on the ESR board for the past year.
“It is anticipated Ashley will serve as Interim Chief Executive for approximately six months, while we move to make more permanent arrangements. Ashley will stand down as a director on the ESR Board during this time.
"On behalf of the Board, I extend our thanks and best wishes to Peter as he moves on from ESR.
"Thank you to Ashley for taking on this roles in the interim period, and thank you to everyone at ESR for all the great science you continue to deliver for New Zealand," Professor Young says.
Taking up the position, Sir Ashley said he was looking forward to working with the ESR team.
“I have worked with ESR over many years and particularly through the COVID-19 pandemic. I’ve really enjoyed being part of the organisation as a Director over the last year, and am looking forward to working as part of the ESR team as Interim Chief Executive.”