Two new directors for Unison Networks Board

The Hawke’s Bay Power Consumers’ Trust has appointed two new directors to the Unison Networks Board. They are Wendie Harvey and Jon Nichols.

“Following an extensive candidate search and interview process, Trustees are delighted to have two such experienced and capable directors join the Unison Networks Board,” said Trust Chair, Diana Kirton.

“We are also pleased that Unison is such a well-regarded organisation; the director recruitment process attracted a huge number of applicants.

“On behalf of Hawke’s Bay power consumers, we are exceptionally fortunate to have attracted local directors with strong community connections and excellent experience, who will govern Unison in a way that holds the best interest of power consumers at its heart.”

With a background in law, Wendie has extensive experience as a director, trustee, lawyer and business consultant. Her roles have extended across the public and private sectors (including listings on the NZX), local government and not for profit organisations. Wendie’s current directorships include Hawke’s Bay Airport (chair), Port Taranaki, TAB New Zealand, Eastland Group, Aurora Energy and Hawke’s Bay Regional Recovery Agency. Her former directorships include Centralines, EIT, Napier Port, and QRS Wairoa. She knows Unison well from her time as GM Operations Support, a role she held until 2011, prior to her becoming a professional director.

Jon’s background in accountancy has led him to establish a significant reputation as a creative and strategic thinker. As an experienced director and consultant, he has led and overseen several strategic and operational transactions across a variety of private, public and not-for-profit entities. His current directorships include Ngawha Generation, Top Energy, Eastland Group, Hawke’s Bay Airport, chair of audit and risk at Maungaharuru Tangitu Trust and independent chair of risk and assurance at Hastings District Council. Former directorships include Tregaskis Brown Ltd, Electra, Palmerston North Airport, Napier Port, and Centralines where he was the chair. Jon also has a strong connection to Unison; he was Commercial General Manager in the early to mid 2000s.

“Trustees are confident that Wendie and Jon will bring dynamic thinking and positive challenge to the Unison Network Board table. We are looking forward to their contribution and welcome them to the Unison board.” said Kirton. The new directors will take up their roles in August 2024. They will replace current directors, Lucy Elwood and Phil Hocquard whoretire by rotation following the company’s annual general meeting at the end of July.

 

Media Release: Hawke’s Bay Power Consumers’ Trust