HVRF names Acting Director of Research

HVRF names Acting Director of Research

The Hunter Valley Research Foundation (HVRF) has appointed Senior Research Fellow Shanthi Ramanathan to the role of Acting Director of Research (DoR).

Shanthi, who is one of the Foundation’s health and wellbeing researchers, will take up her new role next week. She will take over from departing DoR, Simon Deeming, who will join the health economics team at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI).

HVRF CEO, Dr Brent Jenkins, said Shanthi, who joined the Foundation in 2005, has extensive experience in research project management, including managing the HVRF’s ground-breaking Wellbeing Watch program since its inception in 2006.

“The Director of Research role is an important one and Shanthi is well qualified to take it on and be a major ‘voice’ of our research program for our regional sponsors, stakeholders and the media,” Brent said.

Shanthi will also manage the Foundation’s diverse research team, which includes its economics, health and wellbeing streams.

“The Foundation is reviewing its strategic direction and seeking to become more relevant and connected both regionally and nationally. Part of this process will include examining our current research and management capabilities to ensure that we are able to effectively meet the emerging research leadership needs of the Hunter Region and the needs of our research partners and clients.”

Shanthi’s experience, gained over 20 years, comprises health, social and human services research, community and organisational development, continuing professional education, workplace training, corporate communications, strategic planning and change management.

Beginning her career in 1991 at Consumers’ International (Asia and Pacific), Shanthi relocated to Australia in 1995. She worked at Charles Sturt University in a variety of roles as part of the Australian Rural Health Research Institute, the Gilmore Centre for Health Improvement, the Division of Human Resources. She has also worked for the Greater Murray and Hunter New England Area Health Services.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Management Communications, a Master of Health Science (Hons) and is currently studying towards her PhD through the University of South Australia looking at the appropriateness of care for lower back pain.

Hunter Valley Research Foundation

Hunter Valley Research Foundation (HVRF) is a highly respected, independent research organisation which was formed in 1956.

HVRF delivers insights that move the Hunter Region forward towards becoming an internationally competitive and resilient region, through a unique economic and social regional research program

HVRF also works with individual research clients to deliver high quality, rigorous research solutions.

Trending Articles

Advertise with us

Affordable and engaging advertising to a business community

Submit an article

Tell your story to the Hunter business community

Does your business need a little help with its marketing?

Marketing strategies