Lester graduated in 1988 from the University of Otago and was lucky to land a job in Christchurch Hospital, which unbeknown to him would start his interest in public dentistry.

He left the DHB after two years to forge his career in private practice, culminating in purchasing his own practice in 1995, which has grown from a part time solo practice to a four chair, five dentist group practice.

In 2001 Lester joined the DHB again, working part time, one afternoon per week to provide treatment under sedation. In 2010 he increased his hours at the DHB  to 5/10ths taking on the job of Clinical Director of Hospital Dental CDHB.

Lester is passionate about dentistry and having a foot in both the private and public sectors he hopes to bring a broad understanding of dentistry and oral health to the OHCAN executive.