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The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) has officially expanded its reach to Auckland, creating a new local chapter that aims to strengthen connections across the region’s pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medtech and broader healthcare sectors. This initiative reflects HBA’s ongoing mission to advance the role and influence of women in healthcare while welcoming allies of all genders. By establishing an Auckland hub, HBA intends to provide a dedicated space for professional growth, practical mentoring and collaborative problem solving, aligned with the association’s global vision of equitable leadership in health.
The Auckland chapter will operate as a community-focused resource that combines networking, education and career support. Local volunteers and industry practitioners will shape programming centered on leadership development, mentorship and inclusive career pathways. The new branch will offer events, member activities and partnership opportunities designed to connect emerging and experienced professionals, enabling knowledge exchange across clinical, regulatory, commercial and research functions throughout New Zealand.
Launch event details
The official opening will be marked with a public event on Thursday, 28 May 2026 at Flex Precinct, 12 Madden Street, Auckland. Attendees are invited to arrive for networking from 5:30 PM, followed by a featured panel discussion. The central theme of the evening is “Moments we had to learn to own our impact”, an exploration of pivotal experiences that shaped the speakers’ careers. The session will close with additional time for mingling and follow-up conversations. Attendance is free but space is limited, so advance registration is encouraged for those planning to attend.
Featured speakers
The program will highlight two accomplished panelists with complementary experience. Tina Liu serves as a Partner at Tompkins Wake and is recognised for her work across life sciences, biotechnology and FMCG regulatory and commercial matters. She brings legal and commercial insight into operating in regulated health markets. Joining her is Ruth Lucas, an experienced clinical research professional with broad expertise across all phases of clinical trials, particularly in oncology and the New Zealand research environment. Together they will reflect on turning points that required them to speak up, step forward and claim credit for their contributions.
What attendees can expect
The panel conversation will probe the moments when the speakers had to advocate for their own impact, the obstacles they encountered earlier in their careers, and the triggers for change that allowed them to build confidence and visibility. The discussion will examine common misconceptions about personal branding and practical techniques for introducing oneself with clarity and purpose. Beyond the panel, participants will find structured opportunities for building professional relationships and exploring mentorship options within the local HBA Auckland network.
Who should participate
This launch is aimed at healthcare practitioners and industry professionals working in or connected to Auckland and across New Zealand—including those in pharmaceuticals, biotech, medtech, clinical research, regulatory affairs and corporate functions. Organisations with a presence in New Zealand are also encouraged to engage as members or partners to support programming, sponsorships and collaborative initiatives. Whether you are looking for peer support, mentorship, or to influence a more equitable industry, the chapter provides multiple pathways to get involved.
Local leadership and ways to get involved
The Auckland chapter is led by a volunteer team of local professionals committed to building an inclusive, action-oriented community. The branch leadership includes Katie Ellegard (Branch Lead), who works in Clinical Operations at Daiichi Sankyo; Alia Mahgoub (Member Engagement Lead), Medical Affairs Lead & Founder of ASCENTRA Medical, and a Doctor with an MPH; and Kate McLaren (Education & Events Lead), who is a Pharmacist working in Medical Affairs at GSK. To learn more about membership, event registration or partnership opportunities, contact the team at [email protected].
Looking ahead
With the creation of HBA Auckland, the association continues to broaden its global footprint and invest in local leadership that shapes the future of healthcare. New members, sponsors and volunteers will help translate conversations into concrete programs that support career progression and foster innovation. The launch event on 28 May 2026 is an opportunity to meet the founding volunteers, hear practical stories from seasoned professionals and begin contributing to a more equitable healthcare sector.