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2023 NATIONAL COUNCIL ELECTION

2023 National Council Election


Voting opens at 9am on Thursday, 5 October 2023.


Voting will close at 6pm on Tuesday, 17 October 2023. (extended one day for proxy voting)


Voting to elect three (3) Councillor positions on the National Council, will be conducted via an email voting process this year.


All current NAWIC members (at 5pm Wednesday 4 October 2023) are eligible to vote. An invitation to vote will be sent out to the the email address we have on record (Hello Club) for you.


Important Note: Please check your membership, email and personal details are correct - check your details here

      And check your spam folder if you have not received the email.


If you require help with the voting process - please contact secretary@nawic.org.nz


Voting closes on Monday 16th October at 6pm. No votes will be counted after this date, and you can only vote once.


The results of the election will be announced on 18 October 2023 at the NAWIC Annual General Meeting.


If you haven't already, please register for the AGM hosted in your region click here. Or email the NAWIC Secretary for a meeting link if you are attending remotely. Apologies can also be emailed to your chapter, or the NAWIC Secretary.


secretary@nawic.org.nz


Please review the following applications carefully before the voting. You will be asked to vote for two applicants only from this list.


  • Jennifer McLean

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    3 months


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Maintenance Contract Manager


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    I have been involved with various volunteer organisations over the years in elected roles, which has given me some experience around the running of an "association".

    • Alexandra Kindergarten Committee, Secretary and President
    • St Gerards PTA, secretary and President
    • NZ Parent Teacher Association, President (National role)
    • Heavily involved with Girls with Hi Vis over the past 10 years, hosting and keynote speaking at Girls with Hi Vis events throughout the south island.
    • In my current role with NZTA, my management team reports to our board quarterly, and I have been on a journey to understand the governance policies that we strive to adhere to in order to maintain consistency of performance at a national level.
    • I have never been on a "board", however this feels like a good next step for me to move into that space, and the practical "boots on the ground" experience I have had up until now puts me in good stead to come up to speed and understand the scope of the role effectively.

    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    I currently have room on my plate to take this on. I have been looking for new development opportunities, and this is an amazing opportunity for me to grow personally and professionally, to continue to grow as a leader, and to give something back to the industry - which is a key passion of mine.


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

    Seeing women thrive, seeing diversity valued, and helping women who are entering the industry to understand and take hold of the opportunities that are there for them to not only grow personally and professionally but also to be able to meet their potential in contributing to the objectives of the team they are in.

  • Melissa Parker

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    New - about 1 month! 


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Acquisition Manager/Legal Executive


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    I have over ten years accumulative experience in the public and private sector in both property and legal professions.


    My previous public sector roles with LINZ and Airways New Zealand both included strong critical connections to supporting the governance framework at SLT, CEO and Board support level. 


    My private sector experience gave me exposure to the property and construction industry, fostering of relationships with clients, creating new and building on existing processes and policies within my roles.


    Our family property development business provided me with business savy skills to succeed even in uncertain times and manage several projects at once to achieve profitable outcomes.


    I feel that all of my career and life experiences have directly impacted how I live day to day, managing governance through accountability, responsibility and being transparent..


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    I would love to be a part of the Council and help contribute to your goals and values, be a part of the voice for women in the industry, continue to challenge the norms, empower peers and other women to collectively join the journey.


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

    Mahi tahi - working together to achieve greater things.


    I would be most proud of working collaboratively across a number of male-dominant sectors to prove that we can do everything, we are and will continue to do so. 

  • Marie Heist

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    5 months


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    I am Assistant Project Manager on the Scott Base Redevelopment construction team. I have focused particularly on supporting compliance efforts, health and safety, and civil earthworks planning. 


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    1. Environmental Services Unit (ESU) Manager at Waimakariri District Council - 9 months, responsible for oversight of licensing, compliance, and enforcement teams.


    I managed a budget of 1.5M NZD and was responsible for the strategic and financial planning for the unit.  


    2. Project Manager with Jacobs, 2 years, responsible for strategic planning around the program rebid efforts. 


    3. Summit Station Site Supervisor, Polar Field Services, 3 years, responsible for managing personnel (population of 5-50) at the remote Summit Station in Greenland.


    My primary role was setting the objectives for the season, ensuring a positive, safe, and supportive culture, and ensuring health and safety compliance during field work. 


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    I am interested in joining the NAWIC National Council for the opportunity to further develop my leadership and governance skills, to engage women in the wider construction industry, and to support the NAWIC network in New Zealand.


    With over 10 years-experience working in male dominated occupations (operating heavy equipment) in the polar regions I am passionate about supporting women to pursue their personal and professional dreams.


    I will bring strategic thinking, decisive leadership, and a unique perspective to the National Council. 


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

    I am most passionate about sustainable development and providing opportunities for women to try new things.


    I am also very passionate about ensuring women have a seat at the table. As a female heavy equipment operator and station manager I am used to challenging assumptions and am not afraid to take on leadership roles.


    NAWIC is a fantastic organisation bringing women together to show what’s possible and providing a critical support network.


    As a member of the National Council I will bring a sharp eye for detail, team building experience, and a proactive and practical approach to health and safety.

  • Renee Mika

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    5 years 


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Project Manager.


    (With 23 years experience in Construction, ranging across multiple deciplines these include but not limited to Quantity Surveying, Management/Project Accoutant, Operations Manager, Digital & Innovation Lead, HSEQ Lead, Procurement & Expediting Manager.  Studies Bachelor of Construction Quantity Surveying.  Bachelor of Business)


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    23 years with Fletcher Construction Businesses - Infrastructure,  Steel Group, FB Corporate, New Business.

    1 year Van Oord Australia.

    4 years GEC Alstom.  Roles & description above.


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    Uplifting & promoting women in Construction is key to our success.


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

    People, performance, experience  achievement & growing our success. 

  • Helen Russell

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    +5 years


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Construction Manager with HEB on iRex Wellington (marine)


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    Currently on the NAWIC National Council.


    No previous governance roles as such, although was a founding member of the Women in Construction Committee at Brian Perry Civil. 


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    I’d love the opportunity to sit on the National Council for another term as I feel like I’m just starting to understand the role and how the National Council can support the wider NAWIC organisation.


    Having some more time on the council would help me contribute more to this fantastic group and also give me the opportunity to develop my skills in a governance role, which I hope I can then pass on to others.  


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

    Anyone who knows me knows I love the construction industry. I’ve been working on site for over 15 years and am passionate about building successful projects and, perhaps more so in recent years, successful project teams. 


    I’m a huge advocate of NAWIC in my workplace. I can add value to NAWIC with my links to the coal face within the construction industry. I’m project based, and able to directly influence the experience of women on our sites.


    It’s been fantastic to see the number of women on site increasing over recent years, but there’s still many challenges we face. 

  • Nicky Leman

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    3 years


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Commercial Director


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    A member of Fletcher One Governance Team - have been part of the governance team for 2 years, responsible for the overall governance of FCC processes and systems.


    I've been a company Director and currently going through the process of becoming a JP to serve my community. 


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    I would like to engage with local chapters and initiatives to positively impact the construction community at a regional and national level, and have the ability to influence industry policies and practices, advocating for gender equality, diversity, and inclusion in construction-related matters.


    By serving on the National Council it would provide opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and the chance to build skills in areas such as teamwork, communication, and strategic planning. 


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

    Demonstrating to woman that we can do this! 


    I'm committed to promoting diversity in construction. I can assist NAWIC in spreading awareness about the importance of gender diversity and equitable representation in the industry, whilst supporting and guiding NAWIC members.

  • Sarah Anderson

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    5+ years 


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Senior Associate (Lawyer)


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    I was the Auckland chapter chair for NAWIC in 2020-2021 which involved a role on the National Council in it's prior form. 


    This included attendance at strategy and governance meetings.  


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    To help direct and contribute to solutions that get more women into the construction sector.


    I am keen to foster relationships with other industry groups, networks and companies to investigate and address barriers.  


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

    There is a huge potential workforce which is currently untapped as women are rarely opting in for careers in construction.


    The sector misses out on the benefits of diversity. 

  • Karissa Hyde

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    2 years 


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Construction Manager - Scott Base Redevelopment


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    I am on the committee for the Canterbury chapter of NAWIC where I also hold the position of Treasurer.


    Through my work I have experience preparing reports and presenting to various senior stakeholders for key decisions and funding including the Scott Base Redevelopment Project Steering Group, Antarctica New Zealand Senior Leadership Team, Christchurch City Council Three Waters, Infrastructure and Environment Committee and local Community Boards. 


    I also assist in the preparation of reports, decision making papers and business cases for the Antarctica New Zealand Board of Directors, Christchurch City Council and Minister of Foreign Affairs. 


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    I have been on the NAWIC Canterbury committee for the past year and have really enjoyed being involved with organisation and getting to know more women all across the industry.


    I really value the work NAWIC does raising the profile of women in the industry and am keen to get more involved with shaping the direction of the organisation across the next few years.  


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

    I am passionate about increasing the number of women in the industry, particularly in senior leadership positions where we are underrepresented.


    I am also keen to bring more attention to other kinds of diversity and the value it brings to organisations and projects, particularly in the area of neurodiversity, of which I have personal experience.


    I think the construction industry is the kind of dynamic and varied industry in which all people can thrive given the right support.


    I would like to bring my knowledge, experience and unique way of looking at the world to the NAWIC Council and use it to build on the organisations growing momentum, supporting women across the industry.

  • Amanda Williams

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    Recent, joined 2023


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Principal Advisor Women @ Te Pūkenga


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    First time applying for a governance role.  


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    NAWIC creates leaders and influences who are making significant change to support the next generation. The NAWIC values, to strongly advocate for women to succeed and thrive, align with my manaakitanga.


    I am currently the Principal Advisor Women within Te Pūkenga. I am skilled in the development and delivery of strategies and system-level change to improve the experience of underserved ākonga, with a strategic-focus on women, to ensure equity is integrated into all aspects of policies, practices, and culture.


    I work across the organisation to inform the strategy, provide advice on key decisions that drive system change, and develop and implement equity initiatives, on a national scale.


    These skills will support the growth and future direction of NAWIC.  


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

    I am passionate about ensuring women are given the knowledge, information, guidance and tools to succeed and thrive.


    As Principal Advisor Women a source of much personal pride, is the resulting increase of women apprentices in the trades industry (from 1% in 2015 to over 6% today). That has occurred as a result of my team’s work in this area.


    I have over 20 years' experience in the education sector, specialising in the creation of innovative, targeted equity initiatives and educational resources to improve the engagement of underserved learners, including minority groups in educational and vocational training programmes. 


    My expertise, connections and knowledge will ensure women on the frontline, and current members have access to NAWIC and its many opportunities and offerings ensuring we continue to grow our future leaders. 

  • Toni Joy McVicar

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    3.5 years 


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Project Manager


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    None 


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    My career has always been focused on helping clients achieve the best outcome, and I have been lucky enough to manage some great projects with talented people.


    My passion has been to deliver the best project while increasing my skillset and bringing new people into the industry.


    Working with NAWIC would give me the opportunity to now give back to the industry and share the experiences and skills I have learned, something I believe will benefit the NAWIC team. 


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

    My passion is starting with the spark of an idea and working with many different stakeholders to solve complex challenges.


    I’m passionate about building a strong team, with my last project was honoured to lead a team with many talented women.


    I want to share the skills I have gained to encourage more woman to enter and be able to experience our industry.


    I want to show our intelligent, talented woman that we need not second guess ourselves because we can have the same opportunities to succeed.


    I am so very proud to be a woman in construction.  

  • Liz Watson

    How long have you been a NAWIC member?

    4 years 


    What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

    Co-Owner of Stone Roofing Limited

    Operations Manager 

    Qualified Roof Installer (12 years)


    Previous Governance Experience: 

    NAWIC National Council 2022-2023

    New Zealand Women in Roofing (NZWIR) National Board 2020 - 2023

    NAWIC Waikato Chapter Chair 2021-2022

    NZWIR Hamilton Deputy Chair 2020 - 2023


    Melville Year 7 – 13 College

    Establishment Board - Uniform Subcommittee


    Marist Netball Club Committee

    Pheonix Netball Club Committee


    Concove - Women's Advisory Group 2021-2023 


    Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

    To be at the heart of the association, to help guide the way forward for our purpose and our members.


    I want to set strong pathways for Women! 


    What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

    I'm most passionate about the pride of putting in the blood sweat and tears and seeing the end product of something.


    I am also extremely passionate about showing what women can do in the trades, I like to work hard so other females can get inspired and encouraged to get on the tools and love it!


    I think I bring a lot of value with the 22 odd years of working, on the tools experience mixed with a variety of knowledge in various trades not only roofing. I was in infrastructure for roughly 8 years prior to roofing. Alot of heavy machinery work as well as shovels.


    Thanks to my work history, I bring a different attitude to the table, I have experienced working with and being lead men my whole working life, on the tools, on the worksite, I have a bit of banter with me as well.

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