Health Minister Tony Ryall has announced the appointment of Dr Lester Levy as the new Chair of the Waitemata District Health Board.

Mr Ryall says, "Dr Levy has an extensive background in public health and private enterprise as a medical doctor, Chief Executive and Chair, and brings to the board his capacity to deal with the most complex challenges."

Dr Levy is the Chief Executive of the New Zealand Leadership Institute at the University of Auckland and Professor (Adjunct) of Leadership at the University of Auckland Business School.

Dr Levy's background includes being foundation Chief Executive of South Auckland Health (now Counties Manukau District Health Board) and the Mercy Ascot Hospital Group.  His governance experience includes a number of appointments as Chair or Deputy Chair in healthcare, biotechnology and film and television production companies.

Dr Levy's appointment begins on 5 June 2009. Professor Max Abbott remains as Deputy Chair.