HBF announces CEO transition

With HBF now positioned as a truly national not-for-profit health insurer, Mr Van Der Wielen has decided to leave HBF to become a Non-Executive Director.

Mr Van Der Wielen commenced with HBF in 2017, and during that time has worked with the Board, management and staff to revamp the fund's investment strategy to ensure ultra-competitive premiums and high value for its members, expand into allied health services such as dental and physiotherapy, and grow its presence outside of WA to make HBF a leading national brand.

HBF Chief Transformation Officer Simon Walsh will commence as Interim CEO while an executive search process is undertaken for the role.

HBF Chair Diane Smith-Gander said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank John for his valuable contribution to HBF over the past five years and wish him well. Under John's leadership and with the support of the executive leadership team, HBF has truly established itself as a credible, national health insurance provider whose focus on its members is unrivalled.”

Mr Van Der Wielen said: “I am immensely proud of what our management team and people have achieved at HBF in the past five years. HBF is a unique and progressive not-for-profit organisation. I have been privileged to have been able to lead its national expansion and several exciting new acquisitions. I am also proud that the HBF quokka has now become a well-known brand.”

Mr Walsh will be well supported by HBF's executive team, the Board, and Mr Van Der Wielen, who will remain with HBF for several months to ensure an orderly transition of responsibilities.