Dr David Hughes is the Chief Medical Officer and Director of Advice and Assessment at Pharmac, New Zealand’s Pharmaceutical Management Agency. Prior to joining Pharmac in October 2021, David had been working as the clinical lead of the adverse event learning programme at the Health Quality and Safety Commission. Over the previous 15 years, he held a number of senior medical leadership roles within the public hospital system in New Zealand.

Originally working in mental health, he was increasingly drawn to addressing system quality and safety issues. He became a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators in 2018 having completed a Master of Management degree at Massey University.

He hails from Wales, arriving in New Zealand in 1993. He is the proud father of three adult sons.

Credentials:

David Hughes MB, ChB, MM(HSM)(dist), FRACMA

Director Advice and Assessment and Chief Medical Officer, Pharmac