General News
4 June, 2025
New midwifery director at North West Hospital and Health Service
Paula Ryan brings extensive clinical and leadership experience to the role
North West Hospital and Health Service has appointed Paula Ryan as its new Nursing and Midwifery Director.
Ms Ryan brings extensive clinical and leadership experience to the role, spanning more than three decades, with a strong background in midwifery, maternal and child health, and service design.
Her career includes senior roles in tertiary and quaternary hospitals, as well as community-based services where she has led multidisciplinary teams across birthing suites, complex care wards, neonatal intensive care, and home birth programs.
Throughout her career, Ms Ryan has championed culturally safe practice, continuity of care, and equitable access to health services, particularly for vulnerable and remote populations.
She has also undertaken postgraduate studies in health leadership and management, with a strong focus on Indigenous health, equity frameworks, and community engagement.
“My focus is on supporting our workforce, building meaningful partnerships with communities, and ensuring our services meet the needs of families across the North West – particularly in remote and rural areas,” Ms Ryan said.
“Better outcomes for our communities, that’s what drives me.
“We need greater engagement, more education, and services that meet people where they are, not just in maternity, but right from pre-conception through to youth.”
Since commencing in the role, Ms Ryan has begun engaging with staff and stakeholders across the region to identify opportunities for service integration, improved access, and stronger collaboration with First Nations communities.
“I’m passionate about ensuring every woman, child and family receives safe, timely, and appropriate care, regardless of geography or background,” she said.
“That means listening to our communities and working together to create services that reflect their needs.”
The new director has quickly embraced life in the North West.
“There’s such a strong sense of community here. Even just going to the supermarket, I find myself chatting with people and smiling at the kids,” Ms Ryan said.
“When I’m not working, I enjoy swimming, yoga, cooking, and yes, I’m a bit of a clean freak,” she laughed.
NWHHS CEO Sean Birgan said the hiring of Ms Ryan was critical.
“This appointment comes at a pivotal time for our health service,” he said.
“Paula’s deep understanding of frontline care, combined with her leadership and commitment to equity, makes her an excellent fit for this role.
“NWHHS warmly welcomes Paula Ryan to the executive leadership team and looks forward to the knowledge, energy, and community-focused approach she brings to the health service.