MEDIA RELEASE
Ryman Healthcare’s Chief People & Technology Officer Nicole Forster is changing roles.
Chief Executive Gordon MacLeod said Nicole would be standing down as Chief People & Technology but would be continuing to work on specific projects for the board and chief executive of Ryman Healthcare.
Nicole had made a large contribution to Ryman since she joined in 2011.
Some of her key achievements include setting up and developing a dedicated HR function and establishing the Ryman Academy to deliver a tailored leadership and people development programme.
“Nicole was our first dedicated HR resource when she started just after the Christchurch earthquakes,’’ Gordon MacLeod said.
“Since then we have tripled our workforce to more than 6000 employees and Nicole has been there every step of the way, providing HR leadership and playing a key role in developing and improving our culture as we have grown. Team engagement is at record levels, which is a testament to her work.
“She’s also overseen our largest IT transformation project, myRyman. The team has rolled out thousands of devices to all our care rooms, which has helped increase the quality of care we deliver.
“Nicole’s an innovative and creative thinker and has been a key advisor to me, the board and the rest of the team over the years. She is always determined to get results, but in a kind way.’’
Nicole Forster said it has been a privilege to be a part of an incredibly successful and purpose driven organisation that has a unique culture which truly feels like a family.
“I’ve been given such wonderful opportunities in my time at Ryman, it is truly a place where you can grow and achieve your potential like nowhere else.
“It’ll be great to be able to continue to work on a couple of key projects for Ryman while I also pursue a couple of personal projects that are very special to me.’’
Her role has been split into two. Andrew Crerar has been named Head of People & Culture, and Rick Davies has taken over as Head of Technology & Innovation.
“One of Nicole’s strengths is that she is a shrewd recruiter who is great at spotting talent and developing people,’’ Gordon MacLeod said.
“Andrew and Rick are both talented individuals and we are in a good position to continue to grow and develop in both these areas.’’