In healthcare, James was a non-executive board member of Australian hospital operator Central Adelaide Health.
Dean Hamilton, who has been executive chair since former CEO Richard Umbers resigned in April, will return to his non-executive chair role.
Hamilton said James brings “extensive transtasman commercial experience to the company through previous senior leadership roles”.
“The board believes that Naomi’s experiences across NZ and Australia will support her in making a significant contribution to the value Ryman delivers for our residents, team members and shareholders.”
The appointment comes at a time of transformation for Ryman, which has had fire under its feet from shareholders over disappointing returns.
This month, Ryman announced a raft of new measures under what the company has dubbed its “Fit for the Future” programme.
The overhaul includes amendments to pricing, a new management structure, a pause and reset on development and more accounting transparency.
The company also signalled it would amend its debt covenants, which it followed through on September 10.
“The board has begun the process of financial improvement, and I look forward to building on that with the team and helping reaffirm Ryman as a world-class retirement and aged care company,” James said
- BusinessDesk
