Former Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett is taking up a new role as the boss of Pharmac's board.
The former National MP, who was in politics for 15 years before leaving in 2020, held portfolios including social development, associate finance, state services, social housing, police, local government and tourism.
Now, she's been appointed as a member and chair of Pharmac's board.
"Paula brings a wealth of experience to this role, with extensive experience in governance and organisational change," Associate Health Minister David Seymour said in announcing the appointment on Sunday.
"As chair, Paula will lead the Pharmac board in their role of managing the pharmaceutical schedule and driving greater efficiencies and access to medicine for New Zealanders."
For the 2023/24 financial year, Pharmac's Government-allocated pharmaceutical budget is $1.245 billion. The agency invests this into medicines, vaccines and related products for New Zealanders.
Pharmac's 2022/23 spend was $1.186 billion - far lower than Australia's AU$17 billion, however unlike New Zealand, Australia doesn't have a fixed budget.
"I'm confident that Paula has the leadership qualities that will make her the best person to make the decisions needed to ensure that Pharmac is world-leading," Seymour said.
"As the Minister for Social Development, she led significant reforms to the national welfare system. In her current role, she leads engagement with select corporate, government, large developers, and private stakeholders as the National Director of Customer Engagement and Advisory at Bayleys Realty Group."
Bennett will take up the role from May 13.
Seymour said it comes at a time when globally there are changes in medicine, both presenting new opportunities for health and challenges to navigate.
"Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines," he said.
Bennett will take over from Dr Peter Bramley, who has been serving as the acting Chair.
Dr Bramley will continue serving on the board.
