Ronald McDonald House Charities NZ appoints new CEO

Ronald McDonald House Charities New Zealand has appointed Lisa Tai as its new chief executive.

Of Rotuman and Fijian heritage, Tai brings a culturally grounded leadership approach that reflects the communities RMHC New Zealand exists to serve and the growing strength of Pacific leadership in Aotearoa. She brings extensive senior leadership experience across health, community services, risk management, and impact-driven organisations, and joins RMHC NZ at a time of growing demand and increasing complexity for the families it supports.

RMHC NZ chair Ben Rose said Tai’s appointment signalled a positive next chapter for the organisation, which supports families with a child in hospital.

“Lisa is a values-led leader with deep experience across governance, health, risk, and community systems. She has a proven ability to lead in complex environments, bring people together, and keep a clear focus on long-term impact. Combined with her strong understanding of the communities RMHC NZ exists to serve, the board is confident she is exceptionally well placed to lead the organisation forward.”

Tai has built her career in senior roles across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, with a strong focus on equity, system impact, and capability-building. She was the second Pasifika woman to be appointed partner at Deloitte New Zealand, where she established Deloitte’s Pasifika Services team focused on empowering communities and creating inclusive career and employment pathways. She has also served on a range of boards and advisory groups focused on family wellbeing and child health.

Tai said she was honoured to join the organisation and considered it a privilege to serve families during some of the most challenging times of their lives. “RMHC NZ plays a critical role in supporting families when they need it the most. I’m deeply motivated by the organisation’s purpose and by the opportunity to work alongside staff, volunteers, partners, and communities to ensure families continue to feel supported, connected and cared for.”

Tai’s appointment follows the departure of long-serving CEO Wayne Howett, who stepped down in September after more than 15 years of leadership both in the New Zealand chapter and overseas. Under Howett’s tenure, RMHC NZ grew into a strong national organisation with enduring partnerships and a deep culture of care.

“Lisa is stepping into an organisation with a strong foundation and a clear purpose,” Rose said. “She will build on Wayne’s legacy while bringing her own insight, energy, and culturally grounded approach to leadership, to guide RMHC New Zealand into its next phase.”

This is supplied content and not commissioned or paid for by NBR.