Farewell to our Founding Co-Director Professor Julian Paton

Pūtahi Manawa acknowledges and celebrates the contribution of Professor Julian Paton as he steps down from his role as Founding Co-Director.

Since helping establish Pūtahi Manawa in 2019, Julian has played a pivotal role in shaping the Centre of Research Excellence and advancing its mission to improve heart health outcomes for Māori, Pacific Peoples, and all New Zealanders. Under his leadership, Pūtahi Manawa has supported groundbreaking cardiovascular research, fostered national and international collaborations, and invested in the next generation of researchers.

Soteria Ieremia, Co-Director Pacific, said that Julian's vision helped shape what Pūtahi Manawa has become. 

“He brought scientific rigour, a deep commitment to precision medicine, and a genuine understanding of the communities we serve and the researchers, clinicians, and advocates who walk alongside them to drive change. That rigour and understanding continue to guide our work. On behalf of the co-directors, we thank Julian for his contribution, his leadership, and the foundation he leaves us to build on. We wish him every success ahead.”

- Soteria Ieremia

Karen Brewer, Co-Director Māori, said that over time, Pūtahi Manawa has evolved to place greater emphasis on supporting the Māori and Pacific workforce, with an increasing focus on community-based research.

“I have admired Julian's humility and openness to learning and adapting throughout this evolution. His willingness to listen, embrace new perspectives and support the growth of the Centre has helped Pūtahi Manawa develop into the organisation it is today.”

Throughout his tenure, Julian championed a collaborative approach that brought together researchers, clinicians, communities and health organisations to address some of the country's most pressing cardiovascular health challenges. His dedication to translating research into meaningful impact has left a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the Centre's work for years to come.

Joe Pihema, Pou Tikanga of Pūtahi Manawa, said he discovered a unique leader in Julian.

“He was open to kaupapa Māori and Tiriti-based thinking. He also had a desire to use his lifelong learnings and experiences for the benefit of Māori and Pacific communities.”

Matua Joe also offered this farewell:

“E te rangatira Julian, haere atu me ngā manaakitanga me ngā whakaaro aroha o Pūtahi Manawa.”

On behalf of the Pūtahi Manawa whānau, we extend our sincere thanks to Julian for his leadership, passion and commitment over the past seven years. We will miss Julian's leadership, warmth, and generosity, and we wish him every success in his future endeavours.

Ngā mihi nui, Julian, for the legacy you leave behind and your contribution to advancing heart health equity for Māori and Pacific Peoples in Aotearoa.