Inspired leadership through tough times

Marisa Bidois, CEO of Restaurant Association of New Zealand.

Inspired by the passionate, creative people who work within the hospitality sector, Marisa Bidois’s (Ngāti Ranginui) leadership of the Restaurant Association of NZ has seen it grow and develop into an agile organisation responsive to industry needs and trends as they happen, while also having the impact to enact meaningful change.

Appointed Chief Executive in 2011, much of Marisa’s time is spent growing interest and opportunity in the industry, raising its profile and advocating for members.

With extensive experience co-designing and advising Government agencies, she’s worked in advisory capacities with several different Government departments including MPI, Immigration NZ, IRD and others.

Marisa has also led collaborations with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to create the Association’s HospoStart programmes, assisting employers find people with the right skills to create a fulfilling hospitality career.

She’s currently on the Go with Tourism Advisory Board and MPI’s Food and Beverage Forum, and earlier this year was appointed to the Government’s Workforce Development Council Reference Group and the Auckland Regional Skills Leadership Group.

Marisa gained her own start in the industry waiting tables while studying employment relations and law at the University of Auckland. It was working part-time in restaurants that taught her invaluable skills, setting her on a career path in business, management, leadership and human resources.