New appointments to expanded Ryman board

17 September 2014

Media release 

New appointments to expanded Ryman board

Ryman Healthcare today announced the departure of a long-serving Board member and the addition of two new directors to its Board.

Independent director Andrew Clements has stepped down after 15 years on the Board. He was appointed when the company floated on the NZX in 1999.

"Andrew is one of the original Directors from 1999 and he's provided continuing wise guidance and direction over that time,'' Chairman Dr David Kerr said.

"He has been a great contributor throughout the last 15 years and we cannot thank him enough for all his hard work and his constant enthusiasm for Ryman Healthcare.''

"I am also delighted to announce that Claire Higgins and Doug McKay are joining the Board. They are both high-calibre directors and we're pleased to have them on board.''

Ryman had been looking to expand its Board by adding a second Australia-based non-executive director and Claire Higgins fills that role.

She lives in Victoria and is the Chair of the Country Fire Authority and a  Director of the Victorian State Emergency Services board.

A chartered accountant, Claire Higgins had a 27-year career at BHP OneSteel before becoming a professional Director.

Doug McKay has held a number of top roles in New Zealand business, and is probably best known as the founding chief executive of Auckland Council.

In this role he led the creation of the Super City from the amalgamation of eight local authorities.

He is also a former chief executive of Sealord and Independent Liquor.

"Claire and Doug bring different skills but they have some important things in common - they have a good understanding of, and empathy for what Ryman Healthcare is trying to achieve for its residents, and we think they can offer a lot to the Board. We look forward to their contribution.''

The new additions bring the number of Directors on the Board from seven to eight.

The Board now consists of:

Dr David Kerr, Chairman.

Warren Bell, Deputy Chairman.

Jo Appleyard, independent Director.

Kevin Hickman, co-founder, Director.

George Savvides, Victoria-based independent Director.

Claire Higgins, Victoria-based independent Director.

Doug McKay, independent Director.

Simon Challies, Managing Director.

Ends

About Ryman Healthcare: Ryman was founded in 1984 and has become one of New Zealand's largest listed companies.  The company owns 28 villages and serves over 8,000 residents in New Zealand and Australia.  Each village offers a combination of retirement living and aged care.

Media advisory: For further information, photos, interviews or comment please contact Corporate Affairs Manager David King on 03 366 4069 or 021 499 602.

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