After seven hugely impactful years, our Chief Executive Vicki Watson has decided the time is right to pass on the baton at The Aotearoa Circle.
The Circle’s Co-Chairs James Palmer and Laurissa Cooney have commended Vicki on the incredible work she has delivered since began guiding The Circle soon after its formation.
“Vicki has shown remarkable vision and leadership in building The Circle into the influential partnership it is today,” says James. “Bringing together leaders from across business, government and iwi to work collectively for nature is no small task, and Vicki’s commitment, persistence and ability to inspire others has been central to The Circle’s success.”
“Vicki has expanded The Circle from a handful of Partners to more than 55 across the public and private sector,” Laurissa shares. “The resulting partnership has enabled the delivery of hugely impactful, and often ground-breaking workstreams that have built greater awareness of the connection between the health of our economy and the health of our environment for the betterment of Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Vicki’s last day will be 30 September. Until then, it’s very much business as usual at The Circle with a comprehensive work programme to deliver as we work to remove barriers to restoring nature – our greatest economic asset.
James and Laurissa say they, along with the wider Circle’s Guardians, Rangatahi Advisory Panel and team, look forward to celebrating Vicki’s incredible contribution over the coming months.
“Vicki will leave behind a strong legacy and a partnership well positioned to continue its work to enable enduring prosperity for Aotearoa New Zealand She should be incredibly proud of what she has achieved,” adds James, “because we are.”
“In the interim Kerridge & Partners will be advising us on this transition,” says James. “The Board will be working with them to define our requirements for Vicki’s successor and the appointment process. If you wish to enquire or express interest in this remarkable role, please reach out to Mel Oosthuizen (Mel.Oosthuizen@kerridgepartners.com) in the first instance."
The Aotearoa Circle Co-Chairs
James Palmer & Laurissa Cooney
