Kim Kavanagh began her nursing career in the UK, providing high-risk community care before moving to New Zealand, where she spent eight years as a Level 4 (expert) emergency nurse. Her transition to occupational health was driven by a passion for improving workplace health and safety, which she developed while working as a nurse contractor across various industries, including infrastructure, construction, forestry, telecommunications, and corporate wellness. Kim's commitment to excellence is evident in her academic achievements. She earned a postgraduate diploma in Occupational Health from Otago University with distinction and received an academic excellence award.