The Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) announced the formal ratification of Darren Turner as Chair and Kristie Atkins as Deputy Chair of the Board. The appointments followed outgoing Chair, Kyle Loades, completing his tenure after more than a decade of service in the role.

Darren will succeed Kyle as Chair, with Kristie to serve as Deputy Chair, working with the Board to guide HMRI’s strategic direction.

Darren said the opportunity to serve was significant.

“It’s a privilege to step into the role of Chair of HMRI,” Darren said. “I look forward to building on Kyle Loades’ legacy by guiding the Institute to continually realise our extraordinary potential for world-class research and its beneficial impact on the health and wellbeing of our northern NSW communities and beyond. I’m fortunate to work alongside a talented Board, executive team, and staff, and I warmly congratulate Kristie Atkins on her appointment as Deputy Chair, bringing invaluable commercial expertise and community leadership to HMRI’s next chapter.”

Darren joined the HMRI Board as a Non-Executive Director in 2021 and chaired the Audit and Risk Committee. He brings more than 40 years of experience in accounting, governance, and strategic advisory roles, and previously served as a Partner at PwC. He held a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Newcastle, was a Fellow of Chartered Accountants ANZ, and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Kristie joined the HMRI Board as a Non-Executive Director in 2022 and chaired the HMRI Foundation. She was Managing Director of customer acquisition and retention business, Wink, and Chair of the Australian Marketing Institute. Her career included recognition as Entrepreneur of the Year (B&T Women in Media) and Australasia’s Certified Practising Marketer of the Year.

Kristie said her focus would be on growth and impact.

“There are exciting opportunities ahead,” Kristie said. “I’m focused on working with Darren and the team to grow funding for and awareness of HMRI. Together, we will improve the lives of our families, friends, and communities.”

HMRI’s CEO and Institute Director, Professor Frances Kay, acknowledged Kyle’s contribution and welcomed the incoming leadership.

“On behalf of everyone at HMRI, I want to thank Kyle for his exceptional leadership and belief in what we do,” Frances said. “During his time as Chair, HMRI has grown significantly, our revenue has more than doubled, our team has nearly tripled, and philanthropic support has reached record levels. His leadership has strengthened HMRI and expanded our impact across the communities we serve. We’re deeply grateful for his contribution and look forward to building on that legacy with Darren and Kristie.”

IMAGE | Darren Turner and Kristie Atkin.