COVER STORY
Kea’s Kiwis world-class
The Kea global network acknowledges the bold vision of co-founder Sir Stephen Tindall at this year’s World Class New Zealand Awards and celebrates the passion and patriotism of the 2011 winners. By Steve Best.
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ir Stephen Tindall’s initial impulse to create a global network to connect expatriate New Zealanders – and harness the potential of their experience and contacts to further the success of this country – has been realised by the size and quality of Kea New Zealand’s membership today. As one of New Zealand’s most recognisable business leaders, Sir Stephen has utilised his own skills and contacts to move into spheres beyond the operation of one of our largest retail chains. He is now deeply committed to philanthropy through the Tindall Foundation, and to advancing the visibility and impact of New Zealand globally through Kea.
18 | management.co.nz | APRIL 2011
Dr Sue Watson, recently-appointed global CEO of Kea New Zealand, says the network aims to create a wealth of knowledge and contacts that will ultimately increase New Zealand exports, and create a more robust economy. “Over the past 10 years, Kea has built a strong network of 30,000 Kiwi expats and friends of New Zealand in 180 countries around the world,” she says. “Our key focus now is to realise the full potential of this network to help grow New Zealand’s economy, particularly through the export SME sector. “One of the ways we will do this is to extend our service offerings to inspire, fund, connect and educate New Zea-
land businesses through our network of highly-skilled, highly-experienced and well-connected expats.” Watson acknowledges that the Christchurch earthquake has fundamentally reshaped the context in which we are now all operating. “The effect it has had on New Zealanders throughout the country is evident,” she says, “but for Kiwi expats, being away from home at a time like this only magnifies the feeling of helplessness and concern. “The way in which we have seen expats take action and mobilise themselves to fundraise and support Christchurch has powerfully demonstrated the value of