The new Chief Executive at The Hearing House says she was drawn to the organisation by its legacy.
Dr Claire Green, a former lawyer, first heard about the charity when she was working with Chris Moore more than 11 years ago.
They were at law firm Meredith Connell and he was her supervising partner. Chris is a trustee on the Cochlear Implant Foundation of New Zealand, and the son of The Hearing House founder Sir Patrick Eisdell Moore, a leading ENT surgeon.
“I can vividly recall standing in Chris’ office and Chris talking with me about the legacy of The Hearing House and why his father thought there was a need for the centre and its wonderful work.”
Another senior lawyer had previously mentioned Sir Pat to Claire when he spoke with her about his daughter who was born prematurely, with a hearing impairment, and needed the services of Sir Pat.
Sir Pat was described as a “great ENT who was so gentle and had such a special way with children”.
“I distinctly remember saying to Chris ‘I’d like to help The Hearing House if an opportunity comes up’. Chris said something like ‘I’ll keep you in mind’.”
Claire also had a great uncle who was deaf and says when she was growing up she “saw how he was treated”.
“He was really isolated.”
Claire interspersed her 10-year law career with having three children, now aged 16, 14 and 11, and going back university to study for her PhD in law.
“Years later, when it came to returning to work, I thought I’d rather do board work than go back in to law.”
She joined The Hearing House Advisory Board in 2017 and as part of her introduction to the organisation she visited the Joyce Fisher Preschool.
“I was watching the kids [with cochlear implants] play and I was really touched. It just blew me away. I thought, a few generations ago I wouldn’t have been witnessing this or connecting with the children in the manner that technology and the work done at The Hearing House now enables.”
Claire, who has a diverse legal and research background, says during her time on the board she became “really engaged” with the organisation and worked with some amazing board members and trustees.
“I feel very privileged to have had that position on the board. It helps in my position [as Chief Executive] to have that governance experience.”
Claire says she feels excited, humbled and fortunate to be in this role and follow on from former Chief Executive Scott Johnston, who retired in May.
“I feel hugely responsible. I don’t want to let people down. It’s about what I can do to help and serve.”
After going through the application process, Claire was appointed to the Chief Executive position and started in June.
Claire says she sees her role as one that will help build relationships, improve communications and break down barriers.
She wants to take the organisation “to the next level” as a centre of excellence.
“I want it to be a truly world class centre. Who knows where the research might lead us.
“I’d like to see us be the best we can.”
