Dr. Claire Madden (www.clairemadden.com) is a leading voice internationally on Generation Z. As an author, social researcher, keynote speaker, and media commentator, Claire is in high demand as an expert in interpreting social trends, demographics, and implications of generational change. The focus of Claire’s PhD was on understanding what qualities of organisational culture motivate Gen Z at work. Claire is the author of Hello Gen Z: Engaging the Generation of Post-Millennials.  Claire is flying in from Sydney, Australia.  

No slides will be shared. 

Richard Emerson, a name synonymous with Dunedin's vibrant brewing scene, is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Despite facing significant hearing challenges, Emerson has not only established himself as a successful entrepreneur but also as an inspiring figure in the community. His journey, marked by overcoming obstacles and embracing innovation, makes him a captivating keynote speaker who leaves a lasting impact on audiences. 

Nigel Avery is a high-performance leader, mortgage advisor, and decorated athlete with a diverse career spanning finance, sport, and governance. He is the Director of MortgageMe Hawke’s Bay, offering tailored lending and insurance advice to everyday New Zealanders, underpinned by a background in executive leadership across the wine and fitness sectors.

A two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist and former Olympian, Nigel later led New Zealand teams as Chef de Mission for the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2024 Paris Olympics. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to performance, people, and community impact—on the field, in the boardroom, and across Aotearoa’s regions.

PRESENTATION

Dr Sylvia Robertson is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Otago's College of Education in Dunedin. She is also the Director of the University of Otago Centre for Educational Leadership and Administration, and Co-Director of the UCEA Centre for the International Study of School Leadership.  Dr Robertson will lead a facilitated discussion about initial teacher education and practicum placements with the NAMSA schools and the ITE providers in attendance.  

POSTIT NOTES

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PRESENTATION

Andy is the Hautū/Deputy Secretary of Policy at the Ministry of Education.  He has been the Acting Secretary for Education and brings a wealth of knowledge to our conference.

Andy oversees the policy advice on quality teaching (covering ITE), curriculum, funding, legislation, Māori and Pacific policy, learning support, learner wellbeing, early learning, tertiary education, infrastructure and systems policy. So, as you can see, he has a very wide overview of the education system. 

He has over 20 years of experience in public policy and operations, and has led teams at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and the Tertiary Education Commission. He has also worked at the Treasury on a range of economic policy issues including serving as advisor to the Treasury Secretary.

Andy holds a BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from Oxford, and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Public Policy from Victoria University.

PRESENTATION