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, directs the institution's technological evolution. Fletcher-Dobson architects scalable digital infrastructure to support online and home-based study options across the national network. By integrating advanced data analytics, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer Digital and Data Transformation optimizes student engagement metrics and streamlines administrative workflows. This leadership role involves collaborating with academic departments to digitize mātauranga Māori resources, ensuring accessibility for diverse learner populations. Peter Fletcher-Dobson drives the implementation of secure, cloud-based systems that facilitate seamless interaction between students and faculty. Through the modernization of digital platforms, Fletcher-Dobson enhances the overall educational experience, supporting the institution's mission to provide flexible, high-quality tertiary training. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer Digital and Data Transformation maintains alignment with government standards for data privacy and digital equity, securing the technological foundation for future growth.

Evie O'Brien, the Te Kura Toroa - Chief Executive Officer at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, provides overarching strategic direction for the institution. O'Brien manages high-level partnerships with iwi, government agencies, and corporate entities to expand the reach of tertiary programs. As the Te Kura Toroa - Chief Executive Officer, O'Brien ensures that all academic offerings remain rooted in mātauranga Māori while meeting contemporary professional skill requirements. This leadership role involves overseeing the executive team to maintain operational excellence across 80 locations. Evie O'Brien drives initiatives that support first-time students and those returning to education, fostering an environment of personal and cultural development. By aligning institutional goals with community needs, O'Brien secures the long-term sustainability of the organization. The Te Kura Toroa - Chief Executive Officer monitors performance metrics to ensure that educational outcomes consistently meet the high standards expected by students and stakeholders throughout Aotearoa.

Glenn McKay, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whakatairanga (Purpose & Relationships) at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, manages external communications and stakeholder engagement. McKay architects strategies to strengthen connections with iwi and community groups, ensuring the institution remains responsive to local cultural needs. As the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whakatairanga (Purpose & Relationships), McKay drives brand awareness and recruitment efforts across the national network. This leadership role involves coordinating with government bodies to secure support for tertiary training programs. Glenn McKay oversees the development of outreach initiatives that highlight the value of mātauranga Māori in professional fields such as business and the arts. By fostering collaborative relationships, McKay enhances the institution's reputation as a leader in cultural education. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whakatairanga (Purpose & Relationships) ensures that all public-facing activities reflect the core mission of empowering students through accessible, transformative learning opportunities.

Nepia Winiata, the Kaiwhakatere - Chief Executive Officer at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, executes the operational vision for the institution. Winiata directs the implementation of academic programs ranging from certificates to master's degrees, ensuring rigorous quality control. As the Kaiwhakatere - Chief Executive Officer, Winiata manages the allocation of resources across 80 locations to maximize student success. This leadership role involves working closely with the Board to refine institutional policies and improve service delivery. Nepia Winiata drives efficiency in administrative processes, allowing faculty to focus on delivering high-quality instruction in Te Reo Māori and other practical skills. By overseeing the daily operations of the organization, Winiata ensures that all educational services remain accessible to diverse learner groups. The Kaiwhakatere - Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on continuous improvement, adapting curricula to meet the evolving demands of the labor market while preserving the cultural integrity of the institution's offerings.

Leon Takimoana, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whanake (People & Culture) at Te Wananga o Aotearoa, leads human resources and organizational development. Takimoana architects talent acquisition and retention strategies to support a diverse workforce dedicated to mātauranga Māori. As the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whanake (People & Culture), Takimoana drives professional development programs that enhance the capabilities of staff across all campuses. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive workplace culture that aligns with the values of the institution. Leon Takimoana oversees performance management systems and employee engagement initiatives to ensure high levels of productivity and morale. By cultivating a supportive environment, Takimoana enables faculty and staff to deliver exceptional educational experiences to students. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Pouwhakahaere Whanake (People & Culture) manages organizational change, ensuring that the workforce remains agile and prepared to meet the challenges of the tertiary education sector in Aotearoa.