Staff changes at the National Support Office

I am delighted to announce three recent staff changes at the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) National Support Office (NSO).

Welcome Gavin!

Firstly, I would like to welcome Gavin Lord. Gavin joined us at the start of September in the position of Finance Manager. Gavin forms part of the NZCB Management Team and will take full responsibility for the financial function of NZCB. He will be supporting the development and execution of the services and value-add we provide to our members. Gavin’s role includes overseeing end-to-end finance operations, budgeting and analysis, balance sheet reconciliations, and looking at ways to improve procedures and controls.

Gavin has worked across a number of senior business management and finance roles in the wider Bay of Plenty area, including some membership and quasi Government organisations in the health sector. He joins us from a clothing manufacturing and distribution business based in Tauranga, where he has been for the last two years. Gavin holds a Bachelor of Accounting and is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA). When you meet Gavin, say hi.

Congratulations Karla and Nick!

I would like to congratulate Karla Farrar and Nick Matthews on their new roles. Karla as General Manager – Marketing and Service, and Nick as Industry Pathways and Apprenticeship Manager.

Karla has taken on sole responsibility for the marketing and communications for NZCB, including the strategic positioning of NZCB and our brand from both a short and long-term perspective. This is an activity she has been immersed in since joining NZCB two years ago.

Karla will continue her excellent work in the business partnership area and look after all of our partnerships, including our Strategic Partner relationships. Her role will continue to encompass the membership services area, including communications to members, the management of services we provide to our members, and the planning and delivery of the Association’s Annual Conference, Expo and Annual General Meeting. Before joining NZCB, Karla held a number of senior roles including National Marketing Manager for a New Zealandwide automotive parts distribution company. She also owned and managed her own boutique advertising and communications agency. Karla’s expertise in communications and commitment to customers (members), creative skills, and an in-depth understanding of social media make her an asset to the Association.

Nick joins the NZCB Management Team in a new role, encompassing Industry Training Association Building (ITAB) Management, the delivery and impact of Review of Vocational Education (RoVE) to membership, Building Technical support, and Stakeholder engagement. Nick joined the team at NSO in July 2015 having spent over 10 years in the building industry, including the tertiary education sector as a trade qualified carpenter. For the past six years he has held the position of National Apprentice Manager and Business Development Manager for the South Island.

Nick has played a key role in new membership acquisition, represented the Association at various regional events, and delivered educational content to our members through Building Trade Professionals workshops, training evenings, and webinars. Nick has also taken a lead role within the ITAB Apprenticeship Program and the NZCB Apprentice Challenge, working closely with Industry Training Providers and key stakeholders.

As Industry Pathways and Apprenticeship Manager, Nick will continue to be based in Christchurch, providing support to all NZCB members and delivering training and support to South Island members.

I am sure you will join me in congratulating and welcoming Karla and Nick to their new roles.