After a long and robust recruitment process led by JacksonStone & Partners, I am pleased to announce Chris McKenzie as the new Chief Executive (CE) of Ngāti Hinerangi. Chris was welcomed into the iwi and its mōkai today at Te Ōhākī Marae by whānau and kaimahi.
Chris affiliates to the iwi of Raukawa, and is well known by many across te ao Māori and within the political and Treaty settlement landscape. He brings with him a wealth of expertise and skill to the organisation with decades of proven experience.
Not only is he a seasoned leader, he is also a pair of experienced and trusted hands, that will no doubt help us to lay down strong foundations for our iwi as we work to achieve the collective aspirations of our people.
Chris comes to us after spending five impactful years at Uenuku Charitable Trust based in Raetihi. Chris was instrumental in leading their settlement negotiations, establishing a new Trust and subsidiaries, and managing a $40 million asset base with a team of 10.
With prior roles at Raukawa and Emerge Aotearoa, his proven leadership has consistently guided multiple organisations through settlement, structural establishment and sustainable growth. He brings with him financial acumen, a sharp eye for detail and strategy along with a deep passion to serve te ao Māori.
I would like to thank Hinerangi Vaimoso for holding down the fort as our interim CE over such a long period. I look forward to working with Chris, and I am sure that the rest of our team are eager too.
Kia tika, kia mahi, kia puāwai.
Nā Tōmai Smith
Chair, Te Puāwaitanga o Ngāti Hinerangi Iwi Trust