Charlotte completed her PhD in psychology at Massey University in 2006 and then worked for eight years in behavioural science, primary care, and public health at the University of Cambridge.  In 2017 she joined the Nuffield Trust, an independent health think tank that aims to improve the quality of health care in the UK by providing evidence-based research and policy analysis and informing and generating debate. 

Her work as co-lead for primary care focuses on improving health and social care, which includes policy analysis and commentary.  She is particularly interested in models of care for people with complex needs, the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes; optimising the use of medicines; patient and carer experience; and what works (and doesn’t) in quality improvement. 

Charlotte has published across a range of internationally leading journals in medicine and behavioural science and she was awarded the Royal College of General Practitioners Health Services and Public Health Paper of the Year (2016) for her work on the primary care experiences of informal carers.

Pursuing an MSc Health Psychology at Massey University has been pivotal in my career development within health and well-being. The program equipped me with a deep understanding of the psychological factors influencing health behaviours, providing me with essential skills in research, assessment, and intervention.

With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, central government, and finance, I now serve as a Director at PwC NZ, where I offer strategic advice to clients in the health and social sectors. The insights gained from my studies have directly contributed to my success in building strong relationships with iwi/Māori health leads, community leaders, and senior executives.

The knowledge and practical experience I acquired through the MSc program prepared me for significant roles such as National Primary Care Manager at the Ministry of Health and National Localities Director for both Te Whatu Ora and Te Aka Whai Ora. Each of these positions allowed me to implement health psychology principles in policy-making and organisational strategies, driving improvements in health care delivery across New Zealand.

I am passionate about empowering whānau, iwi, hapū, and organisations to achieve sustainable health outcomes. My journey at Massey has equipped me with the tools to make a positive impact on communities and promote mental well-being throughout New Zealand.