Our Executive Management Team
The Executive Management Team leads SHPHA's daily operations, overseeing clinical services, finance, HR, and infrastructure, ensuring quality, accessible healthcare delivery across Southern Highlands Province under the CEO's leadership.
Dr. Birisi leads SHPHA as one of Papua New Guinea's top five Provincial Health Authorities. Under his stewardship, SHPHA has achieved the upgrade of Ialibu District Hospital to Level 4 status, the nationwide rollout of the IFMS financial system, an expanded vehicle and ambulance fleet, and sustained improvements in rural health service delivery across the province.
"Leaving no one behind is our greatest satisfaction." — Dr. Joseph Birisi, CEO
Oversees all hospital-based clinical and specialist services, and curative care operations across Mendi Provincial Hospital and district hospitals.
Leads preventive health programs, immunisation, disease surveillance, maternal and child health, nutrition, and community health outreach.
Responsible for finance, human resources, administration, infrastructure, and organisational support functions across SHPHA.
Manager — Human Resources & Training
Oversees staff recruitment, workforce management, payroll (Alesco system), and training programs.
Manager — Finance & Revenue
Manages financial operations, budget, revenue collection, and reporting under the national IFMS rollout.
Manager — Hospital Operations
Manages day-to-day operations at Mendi Provincial Hospital.
Deputy Directors of Nursing Services
Two positions covering administration and clinical streams, overseeing nursing workforce management and clinical nursing standards.
Manager — Administration
Supports organisational administration, records management, and executive support functions.
Planning Officer
Coordinates Annual Implementation Plans (AIP) and performance monitoring across SHPHA.
Our Management Team

Dr. Joseph Birisi
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Dr. Martin Sa'avu
Director Curative Health Services (DCHS)

Mr. George Epei
Director Public Health Services (DPHS)

Margaret Yopia
Director - Corporate Services (DCS)