It is with deep regret that we announce that Don Kay, founder of VHA Global and Chairman, recently died after complications from a Stroke episode. His influence on the VHA Global team is profound and he will continue to be an inspiration for many years to come. In his thirty plus years professional experience in the healthcare industry, Don Kay observed all the diversities in health systems that the world has to offer. His stage included operational management, academic appointments, policy development, consultancy and research.

He undertook, or oversaw, assignments in over thirty countries, ranging across all areas of the health sector: financial issues such as funding and payment models, pricing, costing and financial management systems; quality issues such as accreditation, credentialing, quality assurance and improvement systems, risk management, safety and clinical governance; and planning issues such as services planning, role delineation, access and equity considerations, needs based assessment and services configuration.

Whether it was undertaking a review of a small health service in rural Victoria or bidding for a large hospital development contract in Iraq, Don brought the same infectious enthusiasm to every new challenge that came his way. The more exotic the location or more difficult the challenge the more determined he became to win the contract, occasionally driving mere mortals to despair.

Fortunately his leadership style was open and inclusive, which allows the company to continue with as seamless a transition to the new management structure as is possible, although his presence and influence will be sadly missed.