David Kennedy, River Guide for Boards & Executive Teams

River Guide for scaling companies - I have been fortunate enough to learn how to scale international tech companies collaborating with incredible talent. Now it's time to pass on my experience.

Neville Richardson, Chief Information Officer, Gallagher

Neville builds diverse, high performing teams, by building psychologically safe environments where people can grow, with a focus on the people and structure side of IS as much as technology. 

Prior to taking the role at Gallagher, Neville had been CIO in another of New Zealand’s Iconic brands, and previous to that held senior IS and procurement roles at a leading premium automotive manufacturer, working in UK, Germany, South Africa and China.

And to prove it takes all sorts, Neville originally trained as an archaeologist, although is committed not to become an old relic as his career progresses. 

Angela Nash,Chief Information Officer, AA Insurance

Angela is an experienced and accomplished Technology Executive who has led companies through significant technology and transformational change. She recently joined AA Insurance after several years as Chief Information & Technology Officer at New Zealand Rugby. Angela is responsible for AA Insurance's Digital, Data & Technology teams to create more great experiences for its customers now and into the future.

Angela has worked in several executive technology and leadership roles in both the public and private sector, across sectors such as Telecommunications, Consulting, Solutions Delivery & National Sporting Organisations. In addition to her professional experience, Angela works on various boards and committees and is a member of the Institute of Directors. In 2023, she was awarded the IDC & Brightstar CIO of the Year and is ranked #2 on the Foundry CIO Top 50

Steve James, GM Technology, Woolworths NZ

With three decades of experience in the Technology industry, I have seen it all: from starting out resetting external 28.8 modems in an ISP call centre to leading teams of Technology professionals. My true passion is People and Tech Leadership, where I combine my skills as a Technologist with my ability to inspire and motivate others. I believe that passion and laughter are essential ingredients for a successful work environment, and I try to bring them every day. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing casual games, and listening to podcasts and audiobooks to keep my mind sharp.

What I’m thinking about at the moment, how my place as a Pakeha middle-aged male plays out as I try to kick open doors for others, how large language models can be another tool for positive change and also how to bring meaning to the people in my care at work. At Woolworths New Zealand our challenge is to provide great products and service in a highly eyeballed and sensitive market.

Roxanne Salton,Chief Digital Officer, Southern Cross Health Society

Roxanne leads the Society’s technology business strategy and market-leading experiences for the Society’s internal and external customers. She is well-known for bringing her business expertise into the technology sector. She is an influential and inspirational leader who has specialised in Digital Transformation across large enterprise, Strategy Development, Product Innovation, Disruptive Technologies and Emerging Markets.

Roxanne has held leadership roles in the digital world in the banking, telecommunications and publishing industries including at ASB, Spark and ACP Media. Her expertise in transformation, innovation and disruption has been influenced by the changing economies of these industries.

Roxanne enjoys translating the ever-changing face of technology (ICT) to other parts of the wider business and her anchor point has always been a fervent advocacy of the customer experience. Roxanne is an experienced public speaker and known as a high energy, talented communicator and motivator. She is also a passionate supporter of women in sectors where they are underrepresented.