Te Wananga o Aotearoa Executive and Leadership Team

Peter Fletcher-Dobson, the Pouwhakahaere Taupārongo and Deputy Chief Executive Officer Digital and Data Transformation at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, architects the institution's technological infrastructure. Fletcher-Dobson directs the integration of digital learning platforms across 80 locations, ensuring seamless access for students engaged in online and home-based study. By modernizing data systems, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer Digital and Data Transformation optimizes administrative efficiency and supports academic delivery. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to align digital capabilities with the broader mission of advancing mātauranga Māori. Through the implementation of scalable cloud solutions, Peter Fletcher-Dobson enhances the educational experience for diverse learner populations. Fletcher-Dobson maintains a focus on data security and innovation, driving the digital evolution of the organization to meet the needs of modern tertiary education in New Zealand.

Leon Takimoana, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whanake (People & Culture) at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, manages the human capital strategy for the entire institution. Takimoana oversees talent acquisition, professional development, and organizational culture initiatives that support staff across all campuses. By fostering an environment rooted in mātauranga Māori, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whanake (People & Culture) ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the core mission of providing transformational training. This role involves working closely with leadership to cultivate a supportive workplace that attracts educators dedicated to cultural and professional excellence. Through strategic workforce planning, Leon Takimoana strengthens the institutional capacity to serve first-time students and those returning to education. Takimoana drives initiatives that promote staff well-being and professional growth, ultimately enhancing the quality of instruction delivered to communities throughout Aotearoa.

Nepia Winiata, the Kaiwhakatere - Chief Executive Officer at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, provides executive oversight for the entire tertiary institution. Winiata directs the strategic vision, ensuring that all academic programs and community collaborations remain consistent with the advancement of mātauranga Māori. As the Kaiwhakatere - Chief Executive Officer, Winiata engages with iwi, government bodies, and corporate partners to expand the reach of educational offerings from certificates to master's degrees. This leadership position involves balancing operational growth with the preservation of cultural values across 80 locations. By guiding the executive team, Nepia Winiata secures the long-term sustainability of the organization. Winiata focuses on expanding market impact through innovative curriculum development and community-based learning models. Through decisive leadership, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the institution continues to provide high-quality, accessible education to individuals seeking personal and professional development.

Evie O'Brien, the Te Kura Toroa - Chief Executive Officer at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, leads the academic and operational excellence of the institution. O'Brien focuses on the delivery of diverse bridging and tertiary courses, ensuring that programs meet the evolving needs of students in business, health, and the arts. As the Te Kura Toroa - Chief Executive Officer, O'Brien coordinates with academic departments to maintain high standards of teaching and learning. This role involves driving initiatives that support student success and retention across various study modes, including on-campus and online formats. By fostering strong relationships with community stakeholders, Evie O'Brien expands the influence of the institution in the tertiary sector. O'Brien prioritizes the integration of practical skills with cultural education, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for professional fields. Through strategic oversight, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the institution's reputation for excellence in mātauranga Māori.

Glenn McKay, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whakatairanga (Purpose & Relationships) at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, manages external partnerships and institutional branding. McKay directs efforts to strengthen connections with iwi, government agencies, and corporate entities to support the mission of the organization. By overseeing communication strategies, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whakatairanga (Purpose & Relationships) ensures that the value of mātauranga Māori is effectively conveyed to prospective students and the broader public. This role involves building collaborative networks that facilitate student recruitment and community engagement across Aotearoa. Glenn McKay drives the development of outreach programs that cater to individuals seeking cultural and professional growth. McKay works with the executive team to align external messaging with internal strategic goals, ensuring a cohesive institutional identity. Through these efforts, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer expands the reach and impact of the institution's educational services.