Jess White appointed to lead Community Care PHO

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Jess White appointed to lead Community Care PHO

Community Care welcomed Jess White as Head of PHO, bringing extensive experience in primary care leadership, innovation, and equity‑focused system transformation.

Community Care Limited (CCL), the newly approved Primary Healthcare Organisation (PHO) for the Green Cross Health general practice network, has appointed Jess White as Head of PHO. Jess will commence in the role on 23 February 2026 ahead of CCL's 1 July 2026 operational start.

Jess White joins CCL from her role as Chief Executive of Practice Plus where she has led the growth of a national virtual health service supporting 1.7 million patients and 400 general practices.

With a strong background in executive leadership, governance, and transformational change in primary healthcare, Jess has expertise in strategic planning, funding management, workforce development, clinical support, and partnering with Health NZ, Iwi Māori, and sector stakeholders to deliver innovative care models.

"Jess's deep sector knowledge and commitment to equitable, high quality primary care make her the ideal leader for CCL in its foundational years," said Wayne Woolrich, Chair of Community Care Limited. "Her strong primary care experience working with general practice and PHOs will be a huge asset, and her expertise will help us leverage Green Cross Health's infrastructure to enhance access, outcomes, and funding for our network and patients."

Jess White said: "I am energised by the opportunity to lead CCL and work collaboratively to empower practices to deliver exceptional primary care aligned with national priorities including improved access for patients.” 

CCL will focus on directing more primary care funding to frontline services while maintaining strong partnerships across the sector.