Jacqui Harema moves to CEO role at Hapai Te Hauora

Hapai Te Hauora welcomed its new Chief Executive, Jacqui Harema, this week who is excited to continue the substantial and effective work the team does with Māori Health.

“They are already doing great mahi so looking at where we can extend and expand some of this mahi. We will have a focus on research, policy and broader communications as a start, and really continuing to provide a quality service to the community”.

Jacqui Harema is born and bred in West Auckland where she and her long term partner raised their four children. Jacqui is half Samoan, half Māori and a grandmother to three moko who are also being raised locally.

Most of Jacqui’s professional life has been in the Henderson-Massey area, spending over 20 years at Te Whānau o Waipareira including working on the frontline, being a member of the executive team and spearheading a significant contract with Orange Tamariki.

“I had been at Waipareira for the last 10 years and the 10 years before that had come and gone in different roles. This new position allows me to use all that I have learnt in a new environment, enhancing what they are already doing. This is also a great opportunity to extend my leadership skills”.

Jacqui assumes the role of Chief Executive from Jason Alexander who is now the Chief Operating Officer after successfully leading Hapai for almost four years. Jason has over ten years work experience in Māori Health and is a board member for Ngāti Hine Health and Te Roopu Taurima.

“Jason did a great job as Interim CEO and is very much committed to the kaupapa. His institutional knowledge and general skills and experience are invaluable. I’m very grateful he is remaining at Hapai”.

Former Hapai Te Hauora CEO Selah Hart held the coveted position from 2010 – 2019 and is now the Deputy Chief Executive for Te Aka Whai Ora.