Over the past 30 years, Riki has worked in health leadership roles across the health sector in Aotearoa, New Zealand and is well known for his values-based and kaupapa focussed leadership style. Prior to taking up the Chief Executive role at Te Rau Ora, Riki proactively supported the transition of the recent New Zealand health system reforms in 2022 by holding two senior roles in Te Manawa Taki (Midland Region), covering both the Interim Regional Director Te Manawa Taki of Te Aka Whai Ora and Co-District Director of Te Whatu Ora Waikato. Riki remains passionate about accelerating the development of the Māori health workforce and supporting the advancement of Iwi/Māori (Tribally) led health innovation and solutions across Aotearoa(NZ).