Christine Baxter

Accomplished Interim Surgical Nursing Director at Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora, renowned for strategic vision and relationship building. Known for adaptability, effective collaboration, and delivering measurable outcomes in dynamic environments. Strong communication and problem-solving abilities, coupled with focus on fostering productive and positive team culture.

Demonstrated success in overseeing clinical operations, enhancing patient care, and implementing quality improvement initiatives to achieve clinical excellence.

Track record of fostering supportive environments and mentoring nursing leaders to develop high performance teams and deliver quality patient centred care.

Patient-centred and solution-focussed management style –  responsive and able to deal with issues when they arise, focussed on developing solutions that will resolve the underlying problem while delivering patient centred care that meets organisational requirements.  Develops models of care to meet the demands of a constantly evolving Contemporary Health System. Undertakes research and consults widely to ensure that the full impact of a decision is understood.

Ability to build and motivate teams – can flexibly manage staff to meet the needs of the unpredictable surgical environment. Completed a dissertation that identifies specific leadership strategies for effective management of the multigenerational nursing workforce, and has demonstrated the ability to build collaboration, resolve conflict and find creative solutions to challenges that arise. Influences their practice and approach by engaging positively alongside them.

Strong self-management – takes responsibility for projects; demonstrates accountability and reflects appropriately on clinical experience to identify ways of improving the nursing care delivered both individually and at the service level. Deals with tasks quickly in an efficient and effective way.

Facilitates leadership growth with quality mentoring – promotes a culture of mentoring, by actively seeking opportunities to develop the next generation of Nurse Leaders and clinical experts.  Assists experienced staff members to become comfortable with new technology and clinical innovations and advanced nursing roles. Proven ability to support and develop skilled Charge Nurse Managers.

Clear accurate and articulate communication – precise and clear written documentation; interesting and informative oral communication; effective motivation and encouragement of other staff, and the ability to communicate health information in a way that patients and their families can comprehend. Very competent at public speaking and lecturing.

Skilled at People Management – promotes a team culture of excellence by leading organisational change, undertaking investigations, succession planning, capability development, workforce planning and resolution of complex employment relations matters. Ensures good process occurs to achieve positive and supported outcomes to meet organisational need.