Kiama Council has announced the appointment of Kerrin Hunter as the first Chief Operating Officer of Blue Haven Illawarra.

She has more than 25 years’ experience in the corporate and aged care sector in a diverse range of roles including nursing, human resources and regional management, as well as a deputy CEO of another large aged care organisation.

Council’s CEO Jane Stroud said Ms Hunter’s understanding of the different roles in aged care, from front line to leadership positions was invaluable.

“Kerrin stood out from what was a strong field of candidates with her passion for aged care, enthusiasm and strong local knowledge.

“She has a fabulous mix of clinical and management qualifications and experience that stand her in good stead for the role, and add real value to Blue Haven’s work.”

Ms Hunter is a Registered Nurse with a Master of Business, majoring in Human Resource Management. She is also completing a Master of Law in Enterprise Governance.

Kerrin Hunter

Kiama Council is one of local government’s largest providers of aged care services.

The role was created by earlier in the year, along with a new Blue Haven Advisory Board, to provide a new management and governance structure. Until now the Director Blue Haven also had other directorial responsibilities within Council. The new role focuses solely on Blue Haven operations.

The Board, a s355 committee, has been in the pipeline since the Royal Commission into Aged Care recommended that governing bodies must have a majority of independent non-executive members, and that those members must have appropriate experience in governance and care provision.

Its members are also being recruited, and are expected to be announced shortly.

“Having someone who has helped lead of large aged care operator like Blue Haven with residential facilities, independent living units and in-home support is ideal,” said Ms Stroud.

“Kerrin also has valuable experience in the accreditation process for aged care facilities and her knowledge of compliance will be essential.”

The outgoing Blue Haven chair, Mayor Mark Honey, has welcomed the appointment.

“Kerrin understands the special significance of Blue Haven to our residents, their family and friends and our wider community.

“She is ideally suited to the job of leading a caring organisation that is also an important business unit of Kiama Council.”

Ms Stroud and Mayor Honey have also paid tribute to Acting Director Dale Wakefield.

“Dale’s leadership and tireless efforts during the opening of Blue Haven Bonaira and especially ensuring the health and safety of our residents and staff during COVID-19 is a greatly appreciated by our staff, residents and community.”

He is leaving Council to take up a role with another organisation.