After nearly 10 years in the role Southern Cross Health Society’s CEO Nick Astwick will step down in September 2026, following the Society’s annual reporting to members.
Chair of Southern Cross Medical Care Society, Chris Black, acknowledged Astwick’s contribution during his tenure as CEO noting the Board respects his decision to step down.
He says under Astwick’s leadership, Southern Cross has grown its total membership and substantially modernised the organisation.
“Most recently, Nick’s successfully navigated the Society through the challenging financial headwinds experienced across the entire health insurance sector as well as led the development of a strategic blueprint for the organisation through to its 75th anniversary in 2036.”
He says Astwick can “…be proud of his achievements as CEO at a time of immense external change and increasing regulation. Throughout, Nick’s steadfast belief in Southern Cross Health Society and the vital role it plays in the broader New Zealand health ecosystem on behalf of its approximate 950,000 members has provided a true north‑point for others to follow.”
Comprehensive Search for Successor
Black adds the board is appreciative of Astwick’s leadership over the past decade “…and his commitment to a smooth and orderly transition as we undertake a comprehensive search for a suitable successor.”
Astwick says that over the past decade his focus has been to “…contemporise Southern Cross, modernising the organisation so it is functionally excellent, operationally resilient, and more relevant to more New Zealanders.”
He added that from October 2026 he intends to pursue a portfolio career, as a growth director and investor.