Panel Discussion • 2 CPD

Panel Discussion
Limited spaces available
2
CPD
Join us for a candid and thought-provoking session on what it really means to serve on a board in today’s environment.
Expectations of directors are changing, and board roles are becoming more demanding. There’s more pressure for ethical leadership, inclusive decision-making, and a clear sense of purpose. Our panel will share real-world insights on the realities of governance today. Whether you're just starting your governance journey, actively looking for board roles, or already at the table, this session offers a grounded look at what boards need now—and what the future might hold.
You’ll also have the chance to reflect on your unique value proposition—what you bring to the board table and how your point of difference can contribute to governance.
Come ready to connect and rethink what it takes to be an effective director in Aotearoa. We especially welcome those keen to support and attract the next generation of directors.
This event is supported by the Institute of Director’s Young Directors' Network (YDN). YDN was established to create opportunities for emerging directors to connect, learn and grow through dedicated events and networking. While YDN events are tailored for early-career directors, everyone is welcome to attend.
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Hannah's governance career started within high performance sport when she retired as a player and took up the role of Chair of the NZ Women's Lacrosse Association 15 years ago. After completing an MBA, being appointed to the board of Girl Guiding New Zealand and winning the IoD's Emerging Director Award in 2017, a career in governance began to take shape.
Now, a professional director, Hannah is Chair of the New Zealand Institute of Directors’ Canterbury Branch and holds board roles with Harness Racing New Zealand (Deputy Chair), Swimming New Zealand, UMF Honey Association, Jane Goodall Institute of New Zealand, and Standardbred Stable to Stirrup Charitable Trust. She is also an advisory board member for several organisations.
Hannah's professional experience is in marketing, and she has worked across a broad and diverse range of sectors and organisational structures in New Zealand and overseas.
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Gabrielle began her career as a veterinarian, founding and operating five veterinary clinics across the lower South Island. After 15 years, she sold these businesses to pursue her family’s dream of expanding their farming enterprise. Gabrielle now farms alongside her husband and his brother in Mid Canterbury, finishing10,000 lambs with mixed arable.
Gabrielle brings a diverse perspective to the board with a futuristic entrepreneurial streak and tech focus. Over the past decade, she has held several directorships with veterinary practices and across a range of rural-focused organisations, including Ruralco, Ashburton Trading Society, SFF Co-op and Lincoln University.
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With a foundation in corporate finance, banking, and business strategy, Lachlan is currently Head of Commercial Investment at Pegasus Health and has previously held various leadership and business development roles at Kiasma Health, Westpac New Zealand, ORIX New Zealand and ANZ.
Lachlan is actively involved in community governance and serves on the Board of Trustees at Elmwood Normal School and is a trustee for the Canterbury Society of Arts Charitable Trust and the Community Energy Action Charitable Trust.
Should you have any dietary, mobility, cultural or other requirements, you can let us know on the registration form.
By registering for this event you are confirming that you agree to adhere to our event terms and conditions.
Regrettably, registration fees cannot be refunded when cancellations are received within two working days prior to any branch event. See our standard terms and conditions for more information.
Sharynn Johnson
Canterbury Branch Manager
+64 27 228 6069
canterbury.branch@iod.org.nz
The Canterbury Branch acknowledges the generous support of
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Members — $30.00
Non-members — $40.00