Kiama Council has appointed Kerrin Hunter as the very first Chief Operating Officer of Blue Haven Illawarra.
Chief Executive Officer Jane Stroud said she was pleased to announce Ms Hunter's appointment following a comprehensive recruitment process.
"Kerrin stood out from what was a strong field of candidates with her passion for aged care, enthusiasm and strong local knowledge," Ms Stroud said.
"Kerrin has a fabulous mix of clinical and management qualifications and experience that stand her in good stead for the role, and add real value to Blue Haven's work."
Ms Hunter is a Registered Nurse with a Master of Business, majoring in Human Resource Management. She is also completing a Master of Law in Enterprise Governance.
She has more than 25 years' experience in the corporate and aged care sector in a diverse range of roles including nursing, human resources, regional management as well as a deputy CEO of another large aged care organisation.
Ms Stroud said Ms Hunter's understanding of the different roles in aged care, from front line to leadership positions was invaluable.
"Having someone who has helped lead of large aged care operator like Blue Haven with residential facilities, independent living units and in-home support is ideal."
"Most importantly Kerrin has worked as a nurse advisor with non-compliant facilities to help them find a way forward and achieve contemporary best practice."
Blue Haven chair, Clr. Mark Honey, has welcomed the appointment.
"Kerrin understands the special significance of Blue Haven to our residents, their family and friends and our wider community," Clr Honey said.
"She is ideally suited to the job of leading a caring organisation that is also an important business unit of Kiama Council."
Ms Stroud and Clr. Honey have also paid tribute to Acting Director Dale Wakefield, who is departing the organisation.
"Dale's leadership and tireless efforts as Blue Haven during the opening of Blue Haven Bonaira, developing a new governance structure for the organisation, and especially ensuring the health and safety of our residents and staff during COVID-19 is a tribute to his professionalism and passion for the aged care sector."
