Sir Rob McLeod KNZM is a distinguished tax practitioner and governance leader who has played a significant role in shaping New Zealand’s economic policy and commercial landscape. He chaired the Government Tax Review in 2001 and served on the Capital Markets Taskforce in 2008, contributing to national policy on economic competitiveness and governance. A champion of Māori economic development, Sir Rob has held leadership roles across major organisations including Aotearoa Fisheries, Tainui Group Holdings, and Quayside Holdings, and currently serves as Chairman of Sanford, supporting the growth of New Zealand’s seafood industry.

Tom Sturgess, Nelson-based businessman and philanthropist, is involved in leadership roles in agribusiness, manufacturing, distribution and venture capital with a focus on regenerative and climate friendly business practices. His businesses employ hundreds of New Zealanders; Sturgess is committed to developing core values and identifying, enhancing and rewarding talent in team members. Sturgess is also a significant supporter of charitable organisations that contribute constructively to communities here, in the US and world-wide.

Sir Michael Daniell KNZM is an electrical engineer, business leader, and director who has played a pivotal role in shaping New Zealand’s medical technology sector. With a career spanning nearly five decades at Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, he rose from product design engineer to Managing Director and CEO, leading the company’s evolution into a global leader in respiratory and acute care. Following his executive career, he has remained active in governance and research commercialisation. Knighted for his services to business and healthcare, Sir Michael’s impact continues to be felt both in New Zealand and internationally.

Naomi Ballantyne ONZM is a pioneering leader in New Zealand’s life insurance industry, with over 42 years of experience shaping the sector. As Founder and Managing Director of Partners Life from 2010 until her retirement in March 2024, she built one of the country’s leading insurers and became the first female founder in New Zealand to sell a start-up for over $1 billion. Widely recognised for her impact, Naomi has received numerous honours and awards. She now focuses on governance, global strategy consulting, mentoring entrepreneurs, and expanding her work as a public speaker.

David Irving ONZM has built a remarkable career across business, education, and entrepreneurship, with a lasting impact on New Zealand’s commercial landscape. After beginning in accounting, he spent over two decades at Wattie’s, rising to senior leadership and guiding the organisation through its transition to Heinz. Known for his bold thinking and people-centred leadership, David later became a driving force behind The Icehouse, helping shape generations of SME owners and entrepreneurs. He was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to business and education and continues to play an active role in New Zealand’s business community. 

Dame Rosanne Meo is a highly respected New Zealand business leader with more than three decades of board leadership across the corporate, public, and community sectors. A trailblazer for women in governance, she has chaired major organisations including Briscoes Group, AMP New Zealand, and TVNZ, and was the first woman to chair both a State-Owned Enterprise and an NZX-listed company. Widely recognised for her strategic leadership and impact, Dame Rosanne continues to champion strong governance through her work in business, the arts, and community organisations, while also mentoring future leaders.

Carmel Fisher CNZM is a pioneering figure in New Zealand’s investment landscape, recognised for building Fisher Funds into one of the country’s leading fund managers. Founding one of the first independent retail investment firms, she championed a people-first approach, making investing accessible and engaging for everyday “Mum and Dad” investors. Under her leadership, the business grew from $17 million to over $8 billion in funds under management. A respected director, mentor and advocate for financial literacy, Carmel has made a lasting contribution to New Zealand’s business community.