New Board Chair for Otago Polytechnic

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New Board Chair for Otago Polytechnic

February 19, 2021 | 3 min read

Adam was invited to step up to the Chair role, having served as a Board member since 1 April 2020 when Otago Polytechnic became a subsidiary of the newly formed Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.

“Adam’s finance, strategy and risk background and passion for Dunedin will continue to serve Otago Polytechnic well,” said Murray Strong, Te Pūkenga Council Chair. “It is important that we maintain the current momentum to transform the sector for learners, and having Adam step up to the Chair role will help keep Otago Polytechnic on track.”

Adam is a fully qualified Chartered Accountant with extensive financial experience both here in New Zealand and Overseas in a diverse range of industries. Along with the financial experience his executive and corporate background brings a skill set in strategy, risk management, health and safety, and internal controls. Adam is also a Director on the Dunedin Venues Management Limited Board and the Chief Financial Officer for Cook Brothers Construction.

Adam joined the Otago Polytechnic Board on 1 April 2020 when it became a subsidiary of Te Pūkenga. He has chaired the Finance and Audit Subcommittee.

Born and bred in Dunedin, he is passionate about the city being a great place to work and live. Adam sees Otago Polytechnic as a key asset to the region and wants to see its continued success within the tertiary sector.

“I am excited to be taking over the chair’s role for Otago Polytech from Tony,” said Adam. “He has done a fantastic job to date and Otago Polytech has been making huge strides with leveraging its unique strengths and skilled team to help guide it through this transitional period. I am passionate about working with the team to make this a success.”

Adam takes the reins from Tony Allison, who has served since 1 April as the first Chair of Otago Polytechnic as a subsidiary of Te Pūkenga.

Tony’s contribution to Otago Polytech has been longstanding. He has worked with Otago Polytechnic on its Edubits product and as independent chair of the Edubits advisory board.

“We thank Tony for his work at Otago Polytech.” said Murray. “His new role as MD of Smiths City will be a significant draw on his time and we understand he is also resigning from his position as Chair of Dunedin Airport to concentrate fully on his new role.”