SA Health Executive and Leadership Team

Karen Puvogel, the Chief Executive Officer at SA Health, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire public health system. Puvogel manages the integration of hospital networks and community care services to optimize patient outcomes across South Australia. By aligning clinical goals with government mandates, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the delivery of efficient medical services and public health education. Puvogel maintains constant communication with the Board and regional stakeholders to address evolving healthcare demands. This leadership role involves balancing complex budgetary requirements with the necessity for high-quality care standards. Through rigorous oversight of system-wide performance, Karen Puvogel drives the organization toward sustainable growth and improved community health metrics. The Chief Executive Officer remains focused on long-term stability and the expansion of essential health infrastructure to meet the needs of the population.

Judith Formston, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Services at SA Health, manages the administrative backbone and operational support systems required for effective healthcare delivery. Formston oversees human resources, information technology, and facility management to ensure seamless hospital operations. By streamlining internal processes, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Services supports clinical teams in providing uninterrupted patient care. Formston coordinates with other executive leaders to implement digital transformation initiatives that enhance data security and operational efficiency. This role involves managing large-scale procurement and infrastructure projects that underpin the broader public health mission. Judith Formston drives organizational excellence by fostering a culture of accountability and resource optimization. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Services ensures that all corporate functions align with the strategic objectives of the health system to maintain high standards of service delivery.

Paula Petrunic, the Office of the Chief Executive Officer at SA Health, coordinates high-level executive communications and strategic project management. Petrunic facilitates the flow of information between the executive leadership team and external government bodies to ensure policy alignment. By managing the daily operations of the executive office, the Office of the Chief Executive Officer enables the leadership team to focus on critical health initiatives and system-wide improvements. Petrunic monitors key performance indicators and prepares detailed reports for the Board to support informed decision-making. This role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and ensuring that organizational priorities remain consistent with public health goals. Paula Petrunic drives operational efficiency by refining internal workflows and communication protocols. The Office of the Chief Executive Officer maintains the integrity of executive processes while supporting the overall mission of providing accessible medical services to the community.

Judith Brown, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at SA Health, directs the expansion of community-based health services and preventative care programs. Brown oversees the implementation of regional health strategies designed to reduce hospital readmission rates and improve patient access to primary care. By collaborating with local health networks, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer ensures that community care initiatives reach diverse populations across South Australia. Brown manages the allocation of resources for outpatient services and public health education campaigns. This leadership role involves evaluating the effectiveness of current service models and adapting them to meet changing demographic needs. Judith Brown drives innovation in patient engagement and care coordination to enhance the overall health system. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer focuses on strengthening the connection between clinical services and community wellness to achieve better long-term health outcomes for the public.

Julienne TePohe, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at SA Health, manages the strategic development of specialized medical services and clinical partnerships. TePohe oversees the integration of advanced medical technologies into existing hospital frameworks to improve diagnostic and treatment capabilities. By fostering relationships with academic and research institutions, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer ensures that the health system remains at the forefront of medical innovation. TePohe coordinates the deployment of specialized care teams to address critical health challenges across the state. This role involves analyzing clinical data to identify areas for service improvement and resource reallocation. Julienne TePohe drives excellence in patient care by championing evidence-based practices and continuous quality improvement initiatives. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer supports the broader mission by ensuring that specialized medical services are accessible, efficient, and aligned with the evolving needs of the South Australian population.

Andrea Andrews, the Chief Operating Officer at SA Health, directs the daily operational activities of hospitals and medical facilities. Andrews oversees supply chain logistics, patient flow management, and facility maintenance to ensure that clinical environments remain safe and functional. By optimizing operational workflows, the Chief Operating Officer reduces wait times and improves the overall patient experience. Andrews coordinates with department heads to ensure that staffing levels and equipment availability meet the demands of high-volume medical services. This role involves implementing lean management principles to minimize waste and maximize the utility of health resources. Andrea Andrews drives operational resilience by developing contingency plans for emergency response and surge capacity. The Chief Operating Officer maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that the physical and logistical infrastructure of the health system supports the delivery of high-quality medical care to the community.

Michael Cusack, the Chief Medical Officer at SA Health, directs clinical governance and medical standards across all health services. Cusack oversees the performance of medical staff and ensures compliance with national health regulations and safety protocols. By establishing clinical guidelines, the Chief Medical Officer maintains high standards of patient care and safety throughout the hospital network. Cusack leads initiatives to improve clinical outcomes and reduce medical errors through continuous training and peer review. This role involves advising the executive team on medical policy and the adoption of new clinical technologies. Michael Cusack drives the professional development of the medical workforce to ensure a high level of expertise and patient-centered care. The Chief Medical Officer remains dedicated to upholding the integrity of medical practice and ensuring that all clinical services meet the rigorous demands of the public health system.

Paul Harris, the Chief Finance Officer at SA Health, directs the financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal reporting for the entire public health system. Harris oversees the allocation of government funding and manages capital investments to ensure the long-term sustainability of health services. By monitoring financial performance and identifying cost-saving opportunities, the Chief Finance Officer ensures that resources are directed toward the most critical patient care needs. Harris coordinates with the Board to provide transparent financial reporting and strategic economic analysis. This role involves managing complex financial risks and ensuring compliance with state and federal fiscal regulations. Paul Harris drives financial accountability by implementing robust internal controls and performance-based budgeting. The Chief Finance Officer supports the organization's mission by maintaining a stable financial foundation that allows for the continued delivery of essential medical services to the people of South Australia.