The Aurum Institute Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Aurum Institute has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, human resources, finance, operations, and subsidiary leadership.

Driven by a commitment to health equity, The Aurum Institute focuses on generating evidence for policy and translating it into practice, addressing critical health challenges across Africa and globally through innovative research and implementation programs.

Leadership Roles at The Aurum Institute

  • Chief Executive Officer - Gavin Churchyard
  • Chief Executive Officer, Lola Cares Ltd (Pty) - Lerato Magobe
  • Group Chief Financial Officer & Group Chief Information Officer - Arshad Hassim
  • Group Chief Operating Officer - Vinodh Edward
  • Group Chief Human Resources Officer - Michael McMillan
  • Gavin Churchyard - Chief Executive Officer

    Gavin Churchyard, the Chief Executive Officer at The Aurum Institute, directs the organization's overarching strategy and vision. Churchyard guides the institute's focus on generating evidence for policy and translating research into practice, particularly within tuberculosis, HIV, and health systems strengthening. Overseeing major development intervention programs, Churchyard ensures the effective execution of technical assistance aimed at improving health outcomes across Africa and globally. This leadership role involves fostering innovation and integrated approaches to address pressing health challenges. By championing evidence-based solutions, Gavin Churchyard drives the institute's mission to create tangible health impact. The Chief Executive Officer's strategic direction ensures alignment with global health priorities and strengthens the organization's position as a leader in health impact.

    Lerato Magobe - Chief Executive Officer, Lola Cares Ltd (Pty)

    Lerato Magobe, the Chief Executive Officer, Lola Cares Ltd (Pty) at The Aurum Institute, leads the strategic direction and operational execution of this subsidiary. Magobe focuses on advancing the specific health impact goals of Lola Cares Ltd, aligning its activities with the broader organizational objectives of evidence generation and practical translation. This involves overseeing programs and initiatives that contribute to health systems strengthening and address critical health challenges within its operational scope. The Chief Executive Officer, Lola Cares Ltd (Pty) ensures the effective deployment of resources and technical assistance to achieve measurable improvements in health outcomes. By driving innovation within the subsidiary, Lerato Magobe supports The Aurum Institute's commitment to integrated approaches and impactful interventions. Magobe's leadership is crucial for expanding the reach and effectiveness of the organization's health solutions.

    Arshad Hassim - Group Chief Financial Officer & Group Chief Information Officer

    Arshad Hassim, the Group Chief Financial Officer & Group Chief Information Officer at The Aurum Institute, manages both the financial health and the technological infrastructure of the organization. Hassim is responsible for financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and ensuring fiscal responsibility across all development intervention programs and research initiatives. Concurrently, Hassim directs the IT strategy, overseeing the implementation and maintenance of information systems that support clinical and implementation research, particularly in tuberculosis and HIV. The Group Chief Financial Officer & Group Chief Information Officer ensures robust financial controls and leverages technology to enhance operational efficiency and data integrity. By integrating financial acumen with technological innovation, Arshad Hassim supports the translation of evidence into practice and the effective delivery of technical assistance globally. Hassim's dual role is critical for sustainable growth and operational excellence.

    Vinodh Edward - Group Chief Operating Officer

    Vinodh Edward, the Group Chief Operating Officer at The Aurum Institute, oversees the day-to-day operational execution of the organization's global health impact initiatives. Edward is responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of clinical and implementation research, particularly in areas such as tuberculosis, HIV, and health systems strengthening. This involves managing the logistics and resources for major development intervention programs and providing critical technical assistance across Africa and globally. The Group Chief Operating Officer drives operational excellence, optimizing processes to translate research evidence into practical, impactful health solutions. By streamlining operations, Vinodh Edward ensures that The Aurum Institute can effectively address pressing health challenges and achieve its mission. Edward's focus on operational efficiency underpins the organization's ability to scale its interventions and maximize health outcomes.

    Michael McMillan - Group Chief Human Resources Officer

    Michael McMillan, the Group Chief Human Resources Officer at The Aurum Institute, oversees all human capital strategies and operations. McMillan is responsible for cultivating a high-performance culture that supports the organization's mission of health impact and evidence-based practice. This involves developing and implementing comprehensive HR policies, talent acquisition, employee development, and retention programs across diverse operational regions. The Group Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that The Aurum Institute attracts and retains top talent essential for its clinical and implementation research initiatives in areas like tuberculosis and HIV. By fostering employee engagement and well-being, Michael McMillan directly contributes to the successful delivery of major development intervention programs and technical assistance. McMillan's leadership ensures the workforce is equipped to address pressing health challenges effectively.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Aurum Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Aurum Institute?
    The Aurum Institute is led by Gavin Churchyard (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lerato Magobe (Chief Executive Officer, Lola Cares Ltd (Pty)) and Arshad Hassim (Group Chief Financial Officer & Group Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of The Aurum Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Aurum Institute includes leaders such as Gavin Churchyard (Chief Executive Officer), Lerato Magobe (Chief Executive Officer, Lola Cares Ltd (Pty)), Arshad Hassim (Group Chief Financial Officer & Group Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Aurum Institute have?
    The Aurum Institute has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Aurum Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Aurum Institute includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Lola Cares Ltd (Pty), Group Chief Financial Officer & Group Chief Information Officer, Group Chief Operating Officer, Group Chief Human Resources Officer.