New Trustees Join Otago Community Trust Board as Two Members Reappointed

Otago Community Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of three new trustees to its Board, alongside the reappointment of two existing members, strengthening its governance team.

The newly appointed trustees bring diverse expertise and experience to the Board:

• Stacey Honeywill, North Otago – Stacey is the Principal at Te Pākihi o Maru. She holds several other education leadership roles and has been involved in education and executive leadership at Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki. Stacey lives in Otematata.
  
  
• Jeremy Chang, Ōtepoti/Greater Dunedin – Jeremy is an Investment Advisor at Craigs Investment Partners and has significant experience in investment and financial markets. Jeremy is deeply rooted to his Chinese heritage and a supporter of the visual arts. Jeremy lives in Dunedin.
  
  
• Rachel Bird, Ōtepoti/Greater Dunedin – Rachel has experience in event, function and fundraising management, and in commercial property management. Rachel is the Chair of Able Minds (Southern Family Support). Rachel lives in Dunedin.

Dr Michael Stevens and Rebecca Williams have both been reappointed for their second 4 year term, ensuring continuity in the Trust's governance.

The new trustees were officially welcomed with a Mihi Whakatau on January 29th, where they joined kaimahi and existing trustees to mark the beginning of their governance work with OCT.

Andy Kilsby, Chair of the Otago Community Trust Board, welcomed the appointments: "We are delighted to welcome our new trustees, whose combined experience and insights will be invaluable to the Trust's future development. Their appointments, alongside the reappointment of two highly valued existing trustees, ensure we have the right mix of fresh perspectives and established expertise to guide us forward."

The new appointments took effect from 20th January, bringing the total number of trustees to 12.

The new trustees expressed their enthusiasm about joining the Board. Stacey Honeywill said: "I'm honoured to join the Otago Community Trust Board and look forward to contributing to its important work. The Trust plays a vital role in our community, and I'm excited to help shape its future direction."

Jeremy Chang added: "Being appointed to the OCT Board is a privilege that comes with significant responsibility. I'm looking forward to working alongside my fellow trustees to ensure we continue making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve." Rachel Bird shared: "What drew me to Otago Community Trust was its strong commitment to community. I'm eager to bring my expertise to support the Trust's vision and help strengthen its connections within our community."

Trustees are appointed to the Community Trust by the Minister of Finance, under the Community Trusts Act 1999. Trustees are selected for their professional or community-based experience and must live within the Trust's region.

The appointments are for an initial term of four years.

Trustees are responsible for managing funds of more than $308 million (as at March 31st 2024) and distributing income for the benefit of Otago communities.