Julie is the chief executive officer of the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA),a post she has held for nearly ten years. During her tenure the profession has moved from one that was insular and inward-looking to one that is outward-facing with a much broader remit. This is enabling New Zealand’s veterinary workforce to find solutions to some big problems that we face as a society, as we attempt to balance the well being of animals, the well being of the humans who care for and influence how we treat animals, and the well being of our shared environment. She notes antibiotic resistance and the transfer of diseases between species (such as the Hawkes Bay issue) as two examples.
Prior to joining NZVA, Julie worked in human health, holding a number of senior posts in public, private and not-for-profit hospitals. Her last role before changing species and professions was General Manager for Wakefield Health (the Wellington Hospitals).
Julie holds a MBA from Victoria University, is a trustee for the Elizabeth Veterinary Benevolent Fund, a member of the Institute of Directors and a former director of the Wellington SPCA.
In her personal life Julie has raised two emerging adults (Amelia, 30 and Tom 24) while renovating three houses. Parenting Julie notes, is much like being a chief exec (and for that matter renovating houses), very occasional moments of conscious competence, sandwiched between a constant feeling of conscious incompetence.
In her spare time, she is an ageing fitness junky. When not walking up Mt Vic in the early morning to capture a view of the coolest little city in the world, she is being tormented into shape by a personal trainer who is half her size and age, or at hot yoga - a fabulous total body and mind workout, done in the dark for good reason.
So why Rotary and why Port Nic?
Julie likes working with intelligent people, to make a difference, in an environment that is open, respectful and upbeat. She says the buzz in our group reflects all of that.
If made a member her contribution will come with courage, passion, and a willingness to learn from others.
