Two women smiling and engaged in a discussion during a Life Care training session.

Our People

Attitude is everything,
positive, fun and passionate.

Whichever way you look at it, without great people, there is no business. At Life Care Consultants we don’t just look for the best people, we look for passionate people.
We want to help your business provide a safe, healthy and happy working environment
for all your employees.

Our People are the Lifeblood of our Business

Leadership Team

Kim Rutherford, CEO of Life Care, smiling in portrait.

CEO

Kim Rutherford

I am an experienced executive leader with a strong focus on business growth, a passion for customers and for developing great people. I have proven successes in creating high performing teams and delivering business value through marketing, product development, sales, service, and relationship management. With a background in sales management, and over ten years in workplace health and wellbeing I bring a lot of industry knowledge and experience to my role as the new CEO of Life Care Consultants. I enjoy encouraging collaboration, driving operational excellence, and leveraging industry insights to address challenges and identify opportunities that contribute to the evolution of our business and the services we provide to our clients.

Kevin Ludwig, Financial Controller at Life Care, smiling in portrait.

Financial Controller

Kevin Ludwig

Kia Ora I’m Kevin Ludwig, Financial Controller.
I joined Life Care in June 2017 with 20 odd years’ experience in various accountancy roles. My background is in the Manufacturing and Engineering sectors, and I love the change from a product/value-add environment to a service-based industry. The empathy and compassion of the people here is an inspiration.
It is important to me to help an organisation to be better, and Life Care meets those needs as we strive to improve our services, technology, and the way we treat our people. In my personal time I love to cook, and I have too many barbecues. Tricia and I love to travel as much as possible and when at home we enjoy our fur-babies

Cushla Howie, National Operations Manager at Life Care, smiling in portrait.

National Operations Manager

Cushla Howie

Kia ora I’m Cushla Howie the National Operations Manager.

I have often been described as a catalyst to create change, results driven with energy that is contagious and engaging. However, to create true improvement within an organization I know that this does not come from one person, but from the valuing of individuals and enabling the growth of capability of all within the team.

It is important for me to work in an organization that has a positive impact, one that contributes to a greater good and can make life better for others. Joining the Life Care team enables me to meet my ideals through working in a company that delivers empowerment for Kiwis to save lives and improve their health and wellbeing.

With experience in multi-site management, implementation of process improvement and working with the multiple perspectives that workplace diversity brings, I am skilled in creating cohesive, resilient, and productive teams with a focus on customer delivery. We know the importance of a work- life balance, however work enjoyment and the occasional touch of humour, is key to creating daily happiness.

With family as my priority, I manage my time to be available for them, from the time spent at the dinner table, to an overseas family ski adventure or just walking the dog with my kids, I am my most content when I am with them.

Reuben Turner, Business Development Lead, smiling in a checkered shirt against a white background.

Business Development Lead

Reuben Turner

Hi, I’m Reuben Turner, your Business Development Lead here at Life Care Consultants.
With over 15 years of account management and sales experience, I bring a deeply engrained customer focus to Life Care.

Having held roles in the precious metals, technology, and health sectors, this breadth of experience helps me understand your business requirements and assist in crafting the right solution for your team.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my young family, exercise, and getting on the tools for some never-ending DIY on our house!

One of my passions is building long-term business partnerships and getting the job done, so if that sounds like you, let’s set up a coffee to discuss your First Aid, Health, and Wellness goals.

Rebecca Skegg, Account Management Lead at Life Care, smiling in a pink top.

Account Management Lead

Rebecca Skegg

Hi, I’m Rebecca Skegg, Account Management Team Lead. I have over 25 years’ experience in business-to-business solutions across a variety of industries.

With my original background in nursing, the health & wellbeing sector is an industry that aligns with who I am and what I care about.

I enjoy working with our clients and really getting to know their business. My goal is to understand your challenges so we can work together to implement Life Care’s health and wellbeing solutions to successfully meet your objectives, reduce risk and have a positive impact on the wellbeing of your people and business.

When I’m not at Life Care; my garden, family and great enjoyment of cooking take up my time. I also love getting outside and enjoying being near the water in beautiful NZ.

Management Team

Catherine Marshall, Manager of Health Services at Life Care, smiling in portrait.

Manager Health Services

Catherine Marshall

As the Health Services Manager at Life Care Consultants, I am responsible for managing a team of clinical administrators dedicated to delivering exceptional pre-employment screening, injury management, and health check follow-up services to clients nationwide. With a passion for healthcare and a commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of individuals, I excel in driving operational efficiency and excellence.

In my role, I lead my team in booking, processing, and coordinating pre-employment screening services for clients. We ensure that every potential employee meets health requirements and that necessary health interventions are implemented based on their screening results. I oversee the injury management needs of clients, working with healthcare professionals to ensure that injured employees receive the efficient care and support. Furthermore, I facilitate the health check follow-up process, helping clients close the loop on their health monitoring.

My ability to foster a collaborative and supportive work environment has helped us to consistently exceed client expectations. My ultimate goal is to enhance the overall health and wellbeing of individuals while driving the success of our clients and the broader occupational healthcare industry.

Donna Corboy, Regional Manager South Island & Clinical Quality Manager at Life Care.

Regional Manager
South Island & Clinical Quality Manager

Donna Corboy

I hold dual roles of South Island Regional Manager and Clinical Quality Manager, responsible for ensuring that high standards are maintained throughout the provision of all our health services.

After completing training to become a Registered Psychopaedic Nurse, I moved on to teach health and business subjects part time at Polytech, whilst raising my sons. I then worked as an Employment Consultant for people who experience mental health issues and held another management role in Needs Assessment & Service Coordination before joining the team at Life Care as a Health Consultant in 2012.

I am passionate about people and health and working in a way that encompasses a holistic approach to life. Outside of work, I treasure time with friends and family and participate in live theatre, musical & sporting events whenever I can.

Kia kaha, Kia māia, Kia manawanui | Be strong, be brave, be steadfast.

Quality Training Manager

Brad Smith

I am an experienced manager focused on giving people confidence and knowledge to deliver high-quality training. I’m passionate about coaching and mentoring others to ensure they meet best practices in delivery of up-to-date and relevant programmes for our clients. With a background as a Health Consultant for Life Care Consultants, and Operations Manager in adventure tourism, I bring knowledge and experience of first aid and health and safety to my role as Quality Training Manager.

Outside of work, my time is spent with my wife and daughter, playing football, watching sports (any sport!) or with friends enjoying a craft beer.

Regional Manager Milan Dobson, Waikato and Bay of Plenty, Life Care portrait.

Regional Manager
Waikato and Bay of Plenty

Milan Dobson

Hi, my name is Milan Dobson, and I am originally from Shiraz, Iran where I completed my medical training at Shiraz University in 2003. After my studies, I worked as a Family Physician/GP and as a medical officer in the Paediatric and Cardiology wards for 7 years. During this time, I also worked casually training First Aid tutors for the Red Crescent Organisation of Iran.

In 2010, I moved to beautiful Wellington, New Zealand and I worked for the Red Cross as a First Aid Instructor. Four years later, I moved to Hamilton and became the Senior Instructor for St. John Central and later joined TUI Medical as a Physician Assistant to work towards my medical registration.

In 2019, I joined the team at Life Care Consultants as a Health Consultant tutoring and performing health checks and shortly after that, I was promoted to the role of Waikato and Bay of Plenty Regional Manager which gives me the opportunity to support a wide team of Health Consultants. I am passionate about working with people and also helping local businesses get the health services and training they need to better protect and upskill their staff.

I am married to an English military veteran who served both in the UK and NZ military and we enjoy spending time with our pets, water sports, and hiking.

Regional Manager
Lower North Island

Melissa Farrow

Kia Ora. My name is Melissa and I am the Regional Manager for the Lower North Island.

Coming from a background of retail management, my focus is on team development and client relationships. Prior to stepping into this role, I worked as a Health Consultant based in Napier and worked alongside many different clients throughout the region. In the role of Regional Manager, I am predominantly based out of Wellington.

I am a strong advocate for mental health and wellbeing and believe that fostering a healthy workplace is essential for success. With a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology, I apply my knowledge of human behaviour to create a supportive work environment. I have taken on the Mental Health Portfolio, providing guidance to our Mental Health and Resilience offerings.

Outside of work, I enjoy opportunities to be outside, particularly at the beach. You will often find me fishing, camping, kayaking, or just walking the dog.

Regional Manager Linimol Justus, Auckland and Northland, smiling in a red dress.

Regional Manager - Auckland and Northland

Linimol Justus

Kia Ora I’m Lini, the Regional Manager of Auckland and Northland.

Recently stepping into this role, I bring a unique blend of expertise in service delivery and people management. Having trained as a dentist in India, I’ve successfully led teams of dental professionals, leveraging my nine years of clinical experience to provide exceptional health services while fostering a commitment to community well-being.

Firmly rooted in my professional philosophy is the belief in setting high standards and creating a resilient, motivated team because it is the synergy of individuals working together towards a common goal that serves as a powerful catalyst for achieving operational excellence.

Outside of work, I find joy in connecting with nature, sitting down with a book after a long day, and sharing culinary adventures with my foodie husband, adding a delightful balance to my dynamic lifestyle.

Sales Team

Reuben Turner, Business Development Lead, smiling in a checkered shirt against a white background.

Business Development Lead

Reuben Turner

Hi, I’m Reuben Turner, your Business Development Lead here at Life Care Consultants.
With over 15 years of account management and sales experience, I bring a deeply engrained customer focus to Life Care.

Having held roles in the precious metals, technology, and health sectors, this breadth of experience helps me understand your business requirements and assist in crafting the right solution for your team.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my young family, exercise, and getting on the tools for some never-ending DIY on our house!

One of my passions is building long-term business partnerships and getting the job done, so if that sounds like you, let’s set up a coffee to discuss your First Aid, Health, and Wellness goals.

Rebecca Skegg, Account Management Lead at Life Care, smiling in a pink top.

Account Management Lead

Rebecca Skegg

Hi, I’m Rebecca Skegg, Account Management Team Lead. I have over 25 years’ experience in business-to-business solutions across a variety of industries.

With my original background in nursing, the health & wellbeing sector is an industry that aligns with who I am and what I care about.

I enjoy working with our clients and really getting to know their business. My goal is to understand your challenges so we can work together to implement Life Care’s health and wellbeing solutions to successfully meet your objectives, reduce risk and have a positive impact on the wellbeing of your people and business.

When I’m not at Life Care; my garden, family and great enjoyment of cooking take up my time. I also love getting outside and enjoying being near the water in beautiful NZ.

National Account Manager

Laura Risbrook

With over 20 years of experience as an Account Manager and Business Development Manager, I bring a wealth of expertise to Life Care. My diverse background spans various industries, including manufacturing, construction, engineering, finance, and government departments, giving me a comprehensive understanding of different organisational needs.

For the past 8 years, I have specialised in helping clients with first-aid training and medical products. I’m also a defibrillator specialist, with extensive knowledge of all models available in New Zealand—so if you need expert advice, I’m your go-to resource. In addition to my professional role, I’m dedicated to my community as a volunteer Event First Responder Ambulance Officer, reflecting my commitment to health and safety.

Outside of work, I enjoy walking my dog, gardening, learning to surf, and exploring nature through tramping. I’ve also climbed to Everest Base Camp and completed three skydives in New Zealand, which speaks to my adventurous spirit.

My passion lies in partnering with clients to ensure the health, safety, and wellness of their teams.

Business Development Manager

Jonathan Tweedie

With a passion for building relationships and a global perspective from living and working in many countries, I love connecting with diverse clients. My collaborative approach helps create successful partnerships, leading to impactful health and wellness programs.

I am deeply committed to Life Care’s mission of improving the health and well-being of New Zealanders. My strong project management skills guide clients smoothly from initial contact to program realisation.

Outside work, you can find me on or in the ocean, inspired by the Blue Mind philosophy.

Life Care offers a comprehensive suite of health, wellness, and training solutions. Feel free to connect so we can discuss how we help people thrive with our proactive approach to health and wellness.

Chanel King, National Key Account Manager at Life Care, smiling in portrait.

National Key Account Manager

Chanel King

Hi there! Thanks for stopping by, I’m Chanel King, National Key Accounts Manager at Life Care Consultants and a Cantabrian at heart! I am passionate about people, mental health and wellbeing! I bring a decade of sales, product development, project management and demand planning experience across variety of industries including manufacturing, food + beverage, packaging, healthcare and industrial.

In my previous life, I thoroughly enjoyed working for various B2B manufacturing suppliers and could see the impact health and safety had on many areas of a business if not taken seriously! I know that safety starts with me, and I hope to carry that out to help you and your business with your occupational health and training needs. The down time is not worth it!

I am committed to a customer centric approach, where strong communication, working together to achieve goals and aiming to do it right the first time is my style. I enjoy building long term business relationships, finding solutions and working smarter not harder!

Outside of work, I love giving back to the community, going for walks, yoga and exploring the city – if there is something new happening, I will be there! I am also a sucker for food and a foodie by nature – I have eaten at over 300 restaurants in NZ and counting!

Barbara-Ann Sharp, National Account Manager at Life Care, smiling in portrait.

National Account Manager

Barbara-Ann Sharp

Hello, I’m Barbara-Ann Sharp, National Account Manager and I have been with Life Care Since April 2019.

My career has been extremely satisfying within different industries. Working for Life Care Consultants is an industry that holds a lot of appeal to me where I can concentrate my energy into building healthier workplaces for clients and potential new clients.

The rapport and subsequent relationships I am able to establish with clients is built on honesty, respect and professional service, thereby gaining the trust and loyalty of clients.

Out of work I love to cook, dance and spend time with my family and grandchildren. I enjoy following an holistic approach for my own health and wellbeing in my personal life.

I believe everything in life happens for a reason and we need to maintain a positive mental attitude and outlook on life. We can accomplish anything if we put our minds to it.

Josephine Faalupega, Internal Account Manager at Life Care, smiling with a flower.

Internal Account Manager

Josephine Faalupega

Talofa, I’m Josephine Faalupega and I am an Internal Account Manager at Life Care.
I joined Life Care Consultants in October 2020 after taking some time off to have my second baby. My professional background is in hospitality, telco, logistics and then onto community-based services. All of which were service and customer-focused roles. I find joy in my role through building and maintaining strong working relationships with my clients. I am very passionate about providing the right services and care for my customers, regardless of their portfolio or whether they are a small NZ business, or a big corporate.
Outside of Life Care, my family is everything to me. I have a loving husband and I am a proud mother of two (very fast) growing boys Desmond and Jacob, who I am often running around after. When I’m not working or with my family, I play volleyball socially with a group of friends which I very much enjoy as I get to socialise with different groups of people and have a bit of fun.

Sue Oppert, Manager for Schools/ECE's at Life Care, smiling in professional portrait.

Manager For Schools/ECE's

Sue Oppert

Growing up I was lucky to be part of a loving, supportive family that allowed me to do what I enjoyed most – play sport! It was through that love of play that I learnt many valuable things. Things like:

The importance of the ‘team’ – working together to achieve common goals.
Hard work and persistence pay off and good communication is key.
Being physically fit improves health and self-esteem.
Having fun, laughter and friendship makes everything so much better.
With a teacher mother, it was no surprise that I ended up in education. Besides, I love learning…knowledge empowers people and gives them choices. Teaching Physical Education and Health was a logical fit and allowed me to combine what I loved. My love of learning later saw me complete a Diploma in Career Guidance and work in the Careers Dept of a large state secondary school.

Coming to Life Care Consultants was a natural transition. I believe in what we do, and I know we do it really well. I believe in our company core values: “Attitude is everything – positive, fun and passionate.” And I believe it is my role, as part of that team, to practise and do my job to the best of my ability so the desired outcomes are achieved – just like in any sport.

Paula Vasquez, Marketing & Communications Specialist, smiling in a professional headshot.

Marketing & Comm's Specialist

Paula Vasquez

As a dedicated Marketing and Communications Specialist at Life Care, I bring a vast experience in different industries, including advertising agencies, microfinance, wholesalers, and B2B businesses. This diverse background has equipped me with a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges that companies in different sectors face. I’m passionate about creativity and thrive on collaborating with teams to develop and execute impactful marketing campaigns. My focus on achieving tangible results drives my work, ensuring that our efforts translate into meaningful outcomes for Life Care and its clients.

I’m an enthusiast of healthy and active living, which perfectly aligns with Life Care’s mission to enhance the well-being of individuals within organisations. When I’m not working, you’ll find me looking for new places to visit, attending concerts, exercising, and listening to podcasts about personal finances, well-being and learning the piano. I’m dedicated to bringing my passion for marketing, communications, and a vibrant life to the service of Life Care and its clients.