Southern Cross Health Society Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Southern Cross Health Society has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, financial oversight, and clinical governance.

Committed to enhancing member wellbeing, Southern Cross Health Society delivers comprehensive insurance solutions and healthcare services across New Zealand to ensure accessible, high-quality care for all members.

Leadership Roles at Southern Cross Health Society

  • Chief Executive Officer - Nick Astwick
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Renate Swart
  • Chief Operating Officer - Andrea Brunner
  • Acting Chief Operating Officer - Jeanette Kini
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Christopher Watney
  • Chief Medical Officer - Stephen Child
  • Nick Astwick - Chief Executive Officer

    Nick Astwick, the Chief Executive Officer at Southern Cross Health Society, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Overseeing the entire not-for-profit healthcare ecosystem, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between insurance product development and the national network of healthcare services. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments while maintaining the financial sustainability of the society. By fostering innovation across health, travel, life, and pet insurance portfolios, Nick Astwick drives long-term value for members. The Chief Executive Officer collaborates with the Board to refine corporate objectives, ensuring the society remains a leader in the New Zealand market. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the integrity of the mission. Astwick prioritizes member-centric outcomes, ensuring that every strategic decision supports the broader goal of improving health accessibility throughout the country.

    Renate Swart - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Renate Swart, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Southern Cross Health Society, directs the financial planning and fiscal health of the organization. Overseeing the management of insurance funds and capital allocation, the Interim Chief Financial Officer ensures the long-term viability of the society. This role involves rigorous financial reporting and the maintenance of robust internal controls to support the not-for-profit mission. Renate Swart analyzes market trends to inform investment strategies and budget management across all insurance lines. By providing financial oversight for the national network of healthcare services, the Interim Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources are utilized to maximize member benefits. Swart collaborates with the executive team to assess the financial impact of strategic initiatives. Through the implementation of disciplined fiscal policies, the Interim Chief Financial Officer maintains the financial stability required to navigate the competitive New Zealand insurance landscape.

    Andrea Brunner - Chief Operating Officer

    Andrea Brunner, the Chief Operating Officer at Southern Cross Health Society, manages the internal infrastructure and service delivery mechanisms. Focusing on operational efficiency, the Chief Operating Officer optimizes the workflows that support the diverse insurance offerings and healthcare network. This role involves streamlining administrative processes to enhance member experiences across the national footprint. Andrea Brunner executes initiatives that improve service delivery speed and accuracy, ensuring that the society meets the evolving demands of the New Zealand healthcare landscape. By coordinating cross-departmental efforts, the Chief Operating Officer maintains high standards of operational excellence. Brunner monitors key performance indicators to identify areas for process improvement, directly impacting the society's ability to scale services effectively. Through the implementation of robust operational frameworks, the Chief Operating Officer secures the foundation necessary for sustainable growth and consistent service quality for all members.
    Andrea Brunner

    Jeanette Kini - Acting Chief Operating Officer

    Jeanette Kini, the Acting Chief Operating Officer at Southern Cross Health Society, supervises the tactical execution of healthcare service delivery. Focusing on the integration of the national network of healthcare services, the Acting Chief Operating Officer ensures that clinical operations align with insurance service standards. This role involves managing the logistical complexities of service provision to maintain high-quality care delivery. Jeanette Kini coordinates with regional teams to ensure consistent service availability across the country. By optimizing resource allocation within the healthcare network, the Acting Chief Operating Officer improves the efficiency of service delivery models. Kini monitors operational risks and implements mitigation strategies to protect the society's service commitments. Through the oversight of daily operational functions, the Acting Chief Operating Officer supports the broader organizational goals. Kini ensures that all service delivery processes remain responsive to the needs of members throughout the New Zealand market.

    Christopher Watney - Chief Marketing Officer

    Christopher Watney, the Chief Marketing Officer at Southern Cross Health Society, architects the brand strategy and member engagement programs. Overseeing the communication of insurance options and healthcare services, the Chief Marketing Officer drives market penetration across New Zealand. This leadership role involves analyzing consumer behavior to tailor messaging for health, travel, life, and pet insurance products. Christopher Watney directs digital marketing campaigns that increase brand awareness and member retention. By aligning marketing initiatives with the society's not-for-profit mission, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures consistent brand positioning. Watney collaborates with product teams to launch new offerings, utilizing data-driven insights to optimize outreach efforts. Through the development of comprehensive communication strategies, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the connection between the society and the community. Watney maintains a focus on transparency and trust, ensuring that all marketing activities reflect the core values of the organization.

    Stephen Child - Chief Medical Officer

    Stephen Child, the Chief Medical Officer at Southern Cross Health Society, provides clinical leadership and governance for all healthcare services. Overseeing the medical standards within the national network, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that clinical practices meet the highest quality benchmarks. This role involves evaluating medical advancements and integrating evidence-based care into the society's insurance and service offerings. Stephen Child collaborates with healthcare providers to maintain excellence in patient outcomes across New Zealand. By advising the executive team on clinical trends, the Chief Medical Officer shapes the society's approach to health insurance and wellness programs. Child monitors clinical performance metrics to ensure that all services remain safe and effective for members. Through the leadership of clinical governance committees, the Chief Medical Officer upholds the society's commitment to health. Child drives initiatives that improve the overall standard of care provided within the organization's extensive network.
    Stephen Child

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Southern Cross Health Society Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Southern Cross Health Society?
    Southern Cross Health Society is led by Nick Astwick (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Renate Swart (Interim Chief Financial Officer) and Andrea Brunner (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Southern Cross Health Society’s executive team?
    The executive team of Southern Cross Health Society includes leaders such as Nick Astwick (Chief Executive Officer), Renate Swart (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Andrea Brunner (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Southern Cross Health Society have?
    Southern Cross Health Society has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Southern Cross Health Society’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Southern Cross Health Society includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Acting Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer.