We are delighted to announce that Ruth Seabright has been appointed as the new Executive Officer of Abbeyfield New Zealand. With an extensive background in the not-for-profit sector, and a wealth of business and entrepreneurial experience, Ruth will start in the role on July 22, based in the national office in Nelson.

Abbeyfield New Zealand board chairman, Simon Hayes, said the board welcomed Ruth, who would be bringing a broad skill set to the position and strong empathy for the Abbeyfield mission.

“We fully expect that Ruth will build on the solid foundations built by our retiring Executive Officer, Susan Jenkins. Our bespoke model of community housing for older people is experiencing an increasing amount of nationwide interest and enquiry, and subject to ongoing capital funding, Abbeyfield expects to grow its footprint,” he said.

Ruth has worked in a variety of leadership roles across the health care, environment/conservation and education sectors. Most recently she was Business Support Lead for Girl Guiding NZ. She has previously been the manager of the Natureland Wildlife Trust in Nelson, and the People and Capability Advisor and Retail Operations Manager for Nelson Tasman Hospice. She has also held management roles with the Nelson Environment Centre and Waikato Environment Centre.

Ruth said she was passionate about community development and social enterprise models, and was looking forward to supporting the growth and development of Abbeyfield and meeting everyone involved. She will work alongside Susan for several weeks when she joins Abbeyfield, as part of a comprehensive handover.