One of 31 Primary Health Networks (PHNs) established by the Australian Government marks the start of a new chapter by welcoming new CEO Kevin Barrow.  

“It is a pivotal time for primary health care in Australia, and we are very pleased that Kevin is joining the SNHN,” said Kate Loxton, Board Chair 

“His diverse background in healthcare across multiple sectors, with a history of collaboration and innovation, represents an opportunity to achieve better health outcomes for our community whilst supporting the primary healthcare workforce at a time of significant need.”  

Loxton also acknowledged the incredible work of outgoing CEO Lynelle Hales by highlighting that she established a high-performing health network with exceptional staff engagement and has grown the vision of the Board and helped significantly quadruple the Board’s aim.  

“At the same time, I would also like to acknowledge the incredible work of Lynelle.  She has created a solid platform for the future of primary health care.” 

“On behalf of the Board, we thank Lynelle for her dedication and performance as our CEO for the past seven years and wish her every success in the next phase of her career.”
 
The New Zealand native is currently the CEO of the Butterfly Foundation, the national charity for all Australians impacted by eating disorders and body image issues.   

Prior to joining Butterfly, Kevin had more than 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. As Managing Director for Philips Australia and New Zealand, Kevin oversaw all of Philips’ businesses and its supporting operations across Australia and New Zealand.
 
Kevin was appointed to the Board of the Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) in 2009-2010 and was elected Chairman in 2012, serving in that role until his departure from Becton, Dickinson and Company. 

“I am very excited to be taking up this role and building on the work of Lynelle and the team.  I have always believed that to bring about significant change in healthcare in Australia, we need to embrace the concept of truly integrated healthcare to improve services in relation to access, quality, user satisfaction and efficiency.” 

Kevin Barrow will commence his role as CEO of SNHN on Monday, 29 May 2023.