The Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) Board has appointed Sarah Stevenson as interim Chief Executive Officer, with immediate effect. The Board made this decision at its meeting on 25 November 2025. The interim role gives the organisation clarity and stability as it works through changes in the primary care sector.
The Board notes that the collective leadership model has helped with a smooth transition over the past month. After reviewing what the organisation needs for the months ahead, the Directors agreed that a single point of leadership will support clear focus, strong partnerships and steady progress.
Sarah leads the Community Services and Innovation team and joined WBOP PHO in May 2024. Since then, she has played a key role in improving access to primary mental health care in the region, guiding the relaunch of the service under the BeingWell identity. She also managed the rollout of the Comprehensive Primary and Community Care Team in the rohe, which is widely seen as positive for whānau.
With 20 years of experience in public health, system change, health leadership and service design, Sarah brings a clear focus on equity, collaboration and whānau-centred care. She says her role now is to ensure momentum remains strong for the community, general practice, iwi partners and the wider health network.
“My priority is to offer clear direction so our people can do their best mahi. This is an important time for primary care, and I look forward to showing the value of our work as a GP/Iwi owned, place-based PHO, committed to improving access and outcomes for whānau,” she added.
