Central Lakes Trust (CLT) is proud to announce the appointment of two new board interns for CLT and Pioneer Energy Limited (PEL). Michael Rewi will serve as CLT Intern Trustee, and Michelle Morss as the PEL Intern Director.
The appointments were announced today by Linda Robertson, Chair of CLT.
“Our intern initiative aims to develop governance capability within our region, ultimately broadening and deepening the local pool of emerging directors,” says Ms Robertson. “Working alongside our board members for 18 months our candidates will gain invaluable experience and insights into governance.”
Rob Hewett, Chair of PEL, says: “It’s great that two local entities like Pioneer and CLT can offer this sort of opportunity for people living and contributing to our communities – it's a form of paying it forward where investing our time upfront will pay dividends later when the interns contribute back to the community they are from.”
Robertson says that the applicants were exceptional, each demonstrating outstanding qualities and abilities.
“It was no easy task making the final decision, but we are thrilled with our chosen candidates and are confident that our relationship will be beneficial to all parties involved.”
Rewi left his professional career in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic to co-found Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust. As the current Chief Executive Officer, he works to ensure the views and aspirations of whānau Māori in our Takiwā are heard, represented, and supported.
Says Rewi, “I have a passion for the health of all whānau, ethnicities and communities that inhabit our Takiwā and ensuring the whenua is left in a better place for future generations. Through this opportunity, I look to strengthen my governance capabilities by learning from a long-established and high-functioning board of trustees.”
Morss is the General Manager: Strategy and Policy at the Queenstown Lakes District Council where she works with a broad range of governance groups on a daily basis. She views this appointment as an opportunity to better understand good governance to better support the boards and elected members she supports.
“I am extremely keen on deepening my knowledge of the energy system, specifically in relation to renewable energy, as this underpins key aspects of my portfolio in relation to strategic growth, transport, housing, and more,” says Morss. She will be the second Intern Director for PEL.
Rewi and Morss won’t have any decision-making powers or voting rights, but will attend all board and relevant committee meetings, and take part in all board activities during their 18-month terms. The interns will receive mentoring from current trustees and directors, 50% paid towards membership to the Institute of Directors for two years and professional development.
