Ashley Bloomfield
Themes: Business, Innovation, Lifestyle & Wellbeing, Motivation, Politics & Advocacy
Roles: Speaker
Sir Ashley Bloomfield became one of New Zealand’s most recognised leaders during one of its most challenging periods.
As Director-General of Health, he helped guide the country through the COVID-19 pandemic, providing steady leadership during uncertainty and complexity. His calm presence, clear communication and empathy earned the trust of millions, both in New Zealand and internationally.
Across a career spanning decades in public health and public service, Ashley has focused on improving health equity, strengthening systems and building organisations that serve communities well. In 2023, he began a new chapter as Professor of Public Health and Leadership at the University of Auckland, where he is establishing a new institute to strengthen the impact of research and teaching. He also works in global health with the World Health Organization, serves on the Board of ESR, and is a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors.
In 2023, Ashley was appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (KNZM) for services to public health.
On stage, Sir Ashley is thoughtful, candid and quietly engaging. He shares both the pressures and the personal lessons of leading through crisis — including the importance of self-leadership, resilience and values-driven decision making. His sessions balance insight with humility, offering practical reflections that resonate across industries and roles.
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In his keynote, Sir Ashley shares lessons on life and leadership from his career, including his time as Director-General of Health. He covers:
Leading through uncertainty and complexity
Building and maintaining trust through open communication
Developing organisational and team culture
Values-based and authentic leadership
Resilience and looking after your and your team’s mental wellbeing
