RNH board chair John Aitken said Mr Ubrihien was an outstanding appointment for the health service and the communities it serves.
“Ashley is a highly capable and respected leader who brings a powerful combination of strategic insight, executive experience and a genuine commitment to people and to rural communities,” he said.
“He has led successfully in large and complex organisations, including across health, aged care and community services, and the board is confident he is the right person to lead RNH into its next chapter and to build on the momentum already underway.”
Mr Ubrihien said he was pleased to be joining RNH at an important time for the organisation and the region.
“It is a great honour to be appointed as the next CEO of Rural Health Northwest,” he said.
“Having grown up in a dairy farming community in southern New South Wales, I have a deep and enduring connection to regional communities.
“This role provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to supporting world-class health care for the communities Rural Northwest Health serves.
“Over the coming months, I look forward to working closely with the RHN board, staff, volunteers and communities to better understand local health priorities and how the organisation can continue to respond to community needs.”
Dr Aitken paid tribute to Lois O’Callaghan for her leadership as interim chief executive.
“Lois has done an outstanding job since taking on the role in February. She has brought stability and steady leadership through an important period for RNH, kept the organisation focused, and supported our people every step of the way,” he said.
“On behalf of the board, I want to thank Lois for everything she has done. She leaves RNH in a strong position, and we are deeply grateful for her contribution.”
Ms O’Callaghan said it had been a privilege to serve as interim chief executive.
“I have valued the chance to lead RNH and to work alongside our dedicated staff, volunteers and partners, and to connect with communities right across the region,” she said.
“It is that community spirit and volunteerism that make RNH special, and I have every confidence the organisation will go from strength to strength under Ashley’s leadership.”
Mr Aitken said Ms O’Callaghan and Mr Ubrihien would work together to ensure continuity for staff, patients, residents and the community.
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