Bupa has named Rebecca Donaldson (pictured) as the incoming chief people officer (CPO) for its Asia-Pacific division, concluding a comprehensive search that included both internal and external candidates.
Donaldson’s appointment is scheduled to take effect in January 2026. She will report to Nick Stone, Bupa APAC’s chief executive officer, and will become part of the executive leadership team.
Donaldson’s professional background spans several industries, with her most recent position at Ramsay Health Care Australia, where she led the Australian people team. In that capacity, she was responsible for implementing a people strategy that supported digital innovation, clinical standards, and workforce sustainability.
Her earlier roles include executive manager, people & culture at Qantas, where she managed the people function during the airline’s post-pandemic recovery, and chief people officer and chief of staff to the managing director at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) during a period of leadership transition.
Her career also includes experience with the NSW Ambulance Service and CityRail. Donaldson is a qualified lawyer and has worked extensively in employee relations, organisational change, and aligning workforce strategies with business goals.
Nick Stone welcomed Donaldson to the executive team, noting her experience in organisational design and leadership.
“Her deep expertise in organisational design, combined with a passion for leadership, will be critical as we continue to strive towards our ambition of being the most customer-centric healthcare company,” he said.
Donaldson said: “It’s a privilege to be joining Bupa. I look forward to building on Bupa’s strong culture and values, ensuring that our people feel supported, inspired, and equipped to deliver on our purpose and the evolving needs of the communities we serve.”
Stone also recognised Jim Nolan, who had served as interim CPO since June, for his leadership during the transition period.
Earlier this year, Bupa confirmed the exit of Kate Dee, who had served as chief people officer for the Asia-Pacific region since 2018.
Dee’s tenure included oversight of human resources and organisational culture during a period of significant change, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Her remit covered talent management, diversity, and workforce engagement initiatives.
Reflecting on Dee’s departure, Stone said: “While Kate will be deeply missed after seven years at Bupa, she leaves with our best wishes as she continues to pursue her career ambitions.”
Stone also acknowledged Dee’s contributions to the company’s people strategy, talent development, and psychological safety.
In a separate development, Bupa announced that Professor Leanne Rowe left the Bupa ANZ board at the end of September 2025.
Rowe, who has a background in clinical practice and medical governance, has worked closely with Bupa’s clinical teams and contributed to governance structures supporting health outcomes.
Board chair Tony Johnson commented: “I, along with my fellow directors and Bupa’s executive leadership team, wish Leanne well and thank her for her contribution to Bupa, her dedication to clinical governance and care, and for sharing her extensive clinical leadership with us.”
