Where are you from originally?
I was born in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia some 47 years ago.

Tell us about your early life.
I was brought up in a nursing home. My mother was the matron, so it was inevitable I suppose that I’d get involved in medicine. I graduated as a nurse, and almost immediately decided to specialise in ambulance services. Initially, I worked providing emergency care directly, but soon progressed to motivating and training others, analysing emergency systems and moving paramedic training into the university sector. This focus on helping others has been my ruling passion since I was a boy.

How did you come to work in Phuket?
I initially came to Thailand some
14 years ago, spending time in the north, before moving to Phuket seven years ago. I was initially invited to work here by a private hospital group, sponsored by the Thai Government. I was employed as a ‘foreign expert’ under the Thai Board of Investment program to work with hospitals to build new facilities, and improve the quality of nursing and emergency services.

Seven years ago, I met Dr. Anuroj Thansirioj, the founder of Phuket International Hospital and I recognised that we shared a mutual interest in the provision of quality healthcare. He invited me to join the hospital management team. It was the opportunity of a lifetime.

What are your duties at the hospital?
Firstly to ensure that foreign patients receive the care they expect, and then some. Secondly, that the hospital develops for the benefi t of all the stakeholders. We now have a team which is devoted to clinical excellence and professionalism. Some time ago I coined the slogan ‘caring people, curing people’. It’s become our mission statement.

Any problems?
There’s always problems working in a multi-cultural environment. To succeed, tolerance, understanding and fl exibility are key. My job is to decide what’s important and concentrate on that. Thais, I fi nd,< perform better when work is ‘fun’.

The economic downturn is another diffi culty which has impacted on our business, particularly as we’re in the middle of our expansion plan – an exciting and challenging time.

Do you have any other responsibilities?
Yes, I oversee a Thai company, Emergency Asia, which provides emergency management and training services around the region, particularly in developing countries. I also consult for the Thai Ministry of Health, off ering assistance in the development of their ambulance program. These responsibilities and arranging the transfer of patients, takes me round the world.

Who is the person who has most infl uenced you?
Two people have had a signifi cant infl uence on my life: my mother and Dr Anuroj Tharasirioj, the founder of Phuket International Hospital. Both had values and ambitions that impacted strongly on me. Both are remembered for giving their time and lives for the good of others – something that deeply infl uenced me. The memory of their compassion and dedication to helping others remains a strong motivator.

Whereabouts do you live in Phuket?
I live in Kathu, about one kilometre from the hospital. I needed to be near work, so I don’t waste precious time battling the traffi c. I work all hours. I bought a house in Kathu. It’s cheaper than renting in the long run, and gives me a feeling of security.

How is Phuket from your point of view?
Developing and in transition. It's like a teenager not really knowing which way to move forward, lacking a little in direction, sometimes immature. In my opinion the island needs stronger local government and clearer direction. Garbage, environmental issues, and traffi c congestion are all areas where the authorities always seem to be playing ‘catch-up’. People’s attitudes are changing too. It concerns me that they seem to care less about each other these days.

What is you marital status?
I’m not married, but I’ve been in a relationship with my partner Siriluck for over fi ve years. I have one son who is studying in Australia.

How often do you go back to visit your country?
I visit my home and my father regularly, at least four times a year. My mother passed away some 10 years ago.

Do you plan to retire?
I’ve no immediate plans that way, as I’m enjoying what life and work has to off er at the moment. There are too many challenges ahead. I don’t think I’ll ever really stop working.

Tell us about your philosophy.
I enjoy setting new goals and achieving them. I also like to travel. I do get bored easily, so work keeps me active.

What do you do with your free time?
Play golf, have a massage or spend time with friends over a good meal. Sailing around the off shore islands is a real treat.

How often do you exercise?
Not enough, I’m afraid, and my body weight is beginning to show that.

How do you divide time between work and your family?
I don’t really compartmentalise things. Life is a mix of work, family and pleasure. I make the most of the opportunities I have.

Are you involved in any local charities, clubs or associations?
I’m a member of a number of local associations and clubs. I specially like the opportunities that Phuket's clubs and associations provide for friendship and interaction.

How would you rate the quality of your life?
Excellent, but quality of life is what you make it. Phuket has so much on off er, and so many opportunities. There aren’t many places in the world that could provide the same lifestyle that I’ve come to enjoy here.

For more information contact:
Phuket International Hospital
Mobile: +66 (0)76 249400
Email: info@phuketinternationalhospital.com