Jan began working at De Paul House as Finance and Administration Coordinator in 2005. In 2014, she was appointed the General Manager. Since then, De Paul House has expanded from 12 transitional units at Onewa Road to 42 transitional housing units both shared and stand-alone properties in 12 locations across Auckland. De Paul House provides shelter and family support for up to 45 families, a total of 200-250 individuals at any one time, with a staff of 20 and volunteer team of 40 loyal and dedicated people under Jan's leadership.

In 2017, recognizing the increasing need for permanent sustainable housing and a more supportive landlord and tenant relationship, Jan began working towards social housing regulation for De Paul House. It wasn’t without its challenges moving into a new position within the housing sector. Today, De Paul House is also a social housing provider with 12 houses on 3 separate locations.

From Jan:

"Being nominated for the Queen Service Medal acknowledges the work of all at De Paul House and all who support De Paul House. It should be a team award. Personally, I am proud of what I have achieved at De Paul House, but know that I have been assisted by the many able leaders who preceded me. My family is delighted, I could not have done it without their support. This medal acknowledges the work of De Paul House across 36 years. I am fortunate to have a role that daily, sees the positive changes that secure housing and responsive support from the great team at De Paul House achieves. After a really challenging 2 years it is nice to have something to celebrate and to buy a posh frock. I have loved working at De Paul House." 

Jan Rutledge, attended the investiture ceremony at Government House to receive her Queen Service Medal (QSM) from Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro on 28 May 2022. 

Celebrating De Paul House social housing regulation with members of the Board and staff on 20 November 2020.