Steve Yanko joined Hato Hone St John in 1981 as a volunteer Ambulance Officer in Napier before progressing to a paid role in Dunedin.

In 2001 his service to Hato Hone St John was recognised when he was made a member of the Order of St John and later promoted to Officer of the Order.

In 2003 he progressed to the role of Rural Support Manager in Manawatu before being promoted to the role of Manawatu District Operations Manager in 2007.

Dedicated to the care of patients and the welfare of the his staff and volunteers, Steve is also connected to his community and Hato Hone St John as the Palmerston North Area Committee Chair