Southern Cross Health Trust has named David Bridgman (pictured) as the incoming chair of both the Trust and its subsidiary, Southern Cross Healthcare Limited. Bridgman’s appointment, effective after Murray Jordan steps down on Dec. 31, marks a leadership transition for the organisation. Jordan will continue to serve as a director until March 31, 2026.
Bridgman, who became a board member in January 2022, brings experience in corporate finance, strategic advisory, and governance. He commented on his new role: “I’m honoured to be appointed to the role of chair of Southern Cross Health Trust and Southern Cross Healthcare, New Zealand’s largest independent healthcare network.”
He added: “Through the work of the Trust and the Healthcare businesses, we touch the lives of hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders every year and play an important role in supporting the overall health system. I am excited about playing a greater role helping Southern Cross Healthcare to fulfil its vision of helping people live their best lives by reimagining healthcare.”
Chris White, chief executive of Southern Cross Health Trust and Southern Cross Healthcare, said the appointment would support continuity. “David’s appointment as chair will ensure a smooth transition at the board level as we continue to deliver on our vision to give New Zealanders access to timely, affordable, and quality healthcare,” White said.
White also recognised Jordan’s contributions since joining the boards in 2019 and leading as chair from 2023. “During Murray’s tenure we’ve reviewed and updated our strategy which will guide our ambition to be a leader in healthcare philanthropy and improve the health outcomes of more New Zealanders,” he said.
Bridgman’s appointment comes at a time when Southern Cross Health Society Group is experiencing record levels of claims activity. Southern Cross Health Society Group processed 3.8 million claims for the financial year ending June 30, 2025 (FY25), representing a 16% increase over the previous year. This marks the highest claims activity in the organisation’s history.
Of the organisation’s 950,000 members, approximately 40% receive subsidised health insurance through 2,600 participating employers, extending private healthcare access to employees and their families. The group paid out $1.706 billion in claims during the reporting period, while premium income totalled $1.811 billion. This equates to 94 cents returned to members for every premium dollar received.
These financial outcomes occurred as New Zealand is experiencing some of the highest medical inflation rates in the Asia-Pacific region. According to Aon plc’s 2025 Global Medical Trend Rates Report, the country’s medical trend rate is projected to reach 14.5% in 2025, up from 7.4% in 2024.
