Passion for health and science leadership and innovation with a background of working with Iwi, an academic career in medical technologies, successful start-up of high-tech ventures, management of international clinical trials, and the FDA approval and international commercialisation of medical diagnostic software. Had significant responsibilities for the leadership of the New Zealand response to COVID-19 as Chief Scientists at ESR which led New Zealand's scientific response.

Brett completed a full medical training followed by ten years clinical experience as an emergency medicine physician at Waitemata hospital before taking on an academic position at the University of Auckland. In this role he developed a research program in medical imaging and medical devices, and setup and directed the world recognised Centre for Advanced MRI (CAMRI), and Auckland MRI Research Group before becoming Head of Radiology. Additionally qualified as a professional mechanical engineer with consulting experience in aeronautical engineering, and recipient of a University of Auckland MBA.

Named inventor on a portfolio of ten international medical and software patents, and has won over 30 business and academic prizes including National Innovation in Healthcare, Excellence in the use of IT in Biotechnology, and the ‘Future Directors’ award, with over 100 academic publications.