Ruth Payne

Ruth brings a wealth of leadership and governance experience to Stroke Aotearoa, having held senior management roles in some of New Zealand's largest organisations. Her career spans key corporate functions including Human Resources, Planning & Performance, Communications, and strategic change - where she has led major restructuring programmes and innovation initiatives.

Now working as an independent contractor and board director, Ruth applies her broad expertise in corporate management, strategy, and organisational development to help drive meaningful transformation across sectors.

Ruth holds Master’s degrees in History and Management, along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Writing. She is a Fellow of the Human Resources Institute of New Zealand (HRINZ) and a Member of the Institute of Directors.

Based in Wellington, Ruth joined the Stroke Aotearoa Board in 2028. She brings a thoughtful, strategic lens to advancing stroke care and equity across Aotearoa.