Panel Discussion
2
CPD
Bold, strategic and values-driven—discover the edge Pacific directors bring to tomorrow’s boardroom.
Boards are facing seismic shifts—economic volatility, climate disruption, digital acceleration, shifting regulatory tides. But one of the most powerful forces shaping Aotearoa’s future? People.
By 2043, over half a million New Zealanders will identify as Pacific. This is not just a demographic headline—it’s a wake-up call for governance.
In this energising Waikato event, we spotlight the unique value Pacific directors bring to the table—not only through lived experience and cultural depth, but through sharp governance skill, future-focused thinking and a deep commitment to collective wellbeing.
You’ll hear from our diverse panel including a scene-setting keynote from Rachel Afeaki-Taumoepeau CFInstD, who will then be joined by Scott Ratuki MInstD, Sacha Coburn and Doug Wilson exploring what Pacific leadership brings to boardroom dynamics, decision-making and accountability; how values like tautua (service), respect and intergenerational thinking translate into strategic advantage; why inclusive boards aren’t just the right thing—they’re a smarter way to lead; and how all directors can lean into Aotearoa’s changing future, with curiosity, partnership and courage.
Expect a frank, future-facing conversation. Bring your questions, your curiosity—and your appetite for change.
CFInstD
Rachel Afeaki-Taumoepeau is an experienced independent strategic and business director for FaceNorth Promotions, overseeing key relationships in the public and private sectors internationally, including across the Pacific region. Her broad commercial experience includes numerous projects between New Zealand and the Pacific relating to trade and investment promotion and facilitation, international research expeditions, public relations, marketing management, government and NGO advisory.
She is an independent director for Habitat for Humanity NZ, Activate Education Group Ltd, Deputy Chair for Ember Wellbeing Trust and Chair of WEL Energy Trust. Rachel holds various NGO governance roles in the Social Housing, Mental Health and Business and Economic Development spaces and is highly engaged in international global Church governance through the World Evangelical Alliance.
Rachel also delivers consultative management services to a national NGO that addresses family wellbeing, prevention of violence and child abuse across New Zealand and has passion to advance Pacific economic development regionally. Rachel is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Directors NZ and sits on the Waikato Committee for IoD.
MInstD
Scott is a Partner and former Chair of the Tompkins Wake Board of Partners. Specialising in commercial property law and with extensive governance experience in organisations managing substantial property portfolios, Scott brings valuable insights and expertise to the table. He currently serves on the boards of the Waikato Regional Theatre Trust and K’aute Pasifika Trust, where his first-hand knowledge of construction projects enhances his contributions. Scott's ability to navigate complex property matters with strategic vision and leadership ensures successful outcomes for the organisations he serves.
LLB, MEd
Sacha Coburn is an experienced director, leadership expert, executive coach and co-founder of The Company You Keep. With a background in law, education, and business, Sacha has held executive leadership roles in New Zealand and abroad, including as Director and Chief Operating Officer of Coffee Culture.
Sacha is the Chair of Foster Group Trust and a Director of Tīeke Golf Estate. She is known for her dynamic speaking style and ability to inspire change through practical leadership insights. A former lawyer, Sacha holds a Master of Education (MEd) from Waikato University and is a graduate of the OPM programme at Harvard Business School.
Doug Wilson is a Partner and Chartered Accountant of Deloitte New Zealand. Doug leads the firm’s Central North Island Corporate Finance team and is predominantly based in the Hamilton office. Doug has over 30 years’ experience including three years working in the UK. He is actively involved in a variety of local community groups at governance level for a number of Not-for-Profit organisations including as the Chair of Habitat for Humanity Central North Island, board member for the Waikato Pacific Business Network, Pinnacle Inc., and K’aute Pasifika 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.
Litia Brighouse-Fuavao
Diversity Programmes Manager
+64 274 447 371
Litia.Brighouse-Fuavao@iod.org.nz
The Institute of Directors acknowledges the generous support of national partners and sponsors
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Members — $40.00
Non-members — $50.00
