AWF
01/05/2015 14:20
GENERAL
NOT PRICE SENSITIVE
REL: 1420 HRS AWF Group Limited
GENERAL: AWF: AWF Group announces Future Directors appointment
AWF Group announces Future Directors appointment
Rachel Hopkins is to sit on the AWF Group board under the Future Directors
scheme, an initiative aimed at deepening the talent pool of directors.
Run by the Institute of Directors, the Future Directors programme was founded
by Sir Stephen Tindall, Michael Stiassny and Des Hunt in 2013. It provides
talented young executives with the opportunity to gain valuable experience by
sitting at the board table of a large or listed New Zealand company for one
year.
Institute of Directors acting CEO Simon Arcus says Future Directors offers
real value for both host boards and successful candidates.
"The next generation of directors receive mentoring, advice, and practical
insight into the boardroom, while host boards get a new perspective and
expertise on emerging issues like sustainability and social media."
AWF Group chair Ross Keenan agrees, saying that while it was a drive to give
back that saw founding director Simon Hull sign AWF up to the scheme,
Rachel's skill and experience would be a real asset to the board.
"Rachel represents the next generation of directors," says Keenan. "We liked
her attitude, unbridled enthusiasm, and well-researched approach. She's a
great fit for AWF and her knowledge of communications and technology will be
a valuable addition to our board."
Rachel is General Manager of Marketing and Communications at industry
training organisation Competenz, and has a wealth of experience in executive
search, education, and economic development. She says that she is thrilled to
be part of a growing group of Future Directors.
"This is such an exciting opportunity for me: to learn from leading
directors; to observe boardroom dynamics; and to be mentored by chairman Ross
Keenan."
"AWF Group is a New Zealand success story on a trajectory of growth and it
has an exceptional board. My background and experience aligns well with the
business and I hope that I can contribute fresh perspectives and value during
my year as a Future Director."
AWF Group worked with executive search firm Hobson Leavy to find the right
person for the role, and Keenan says they were delighted with the calibre of
the candidates presented.
Now in its third year, Future Directors has over 320 candidates on its
database and continues to grow. The Institute of Directors is asking business
leaders to support the scheme by becoming host boards.
"Future Directors is a fantastic opportunity to bridge the generation gap in
governance," says AWF Group's Simon Hull. "We're very proud to be involved
and can't speak highly enough of the whole process."
For further information, see futuredirectors.co.nz or iod.org.nz.
Further information:
Breanna Cullen
Communications Advisor, Institute of Directors
[email protected]
04 470 2665, 0273045200
Approved for release to NZX
Paul Mens
Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary
AWF Group
09 5262646
End CA:00263792 For:AWF Type:GENERAL Time:2015-05-01 14:20:35
