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FRESH FACES AT FRANCHISE NEW ZEALAND
There are new faces among us here at Franchise New Zealand Heather Barker Vermeer has joined us as editor and has been working alongside long-time publishers Simon and Lorraine Lord and General Manager, Sally Knight, since the change of ownership to Eden Exchange earlier this year.
Heather is a highly-experienced magazine editor and writer, having worked with organisations from large corporates to small businesses across a variety of business sectors in New Zealand and the UK over two decades. She has a passion for human interest storytelling and enjoys helping individuals and organisations share their voices – a perfect fit for Franchise New Zealand
‘I’m a firm believer in the power of words to shape and share who we are,’ says Heather. ‘I look forward to extending my knowledge about the franchise world and its people, helping more Kiwis connect through the rich opportunities franchising brings.’
Another new face is Senior Designer Stu Sutherland of Smokeylemon, who joined the team in December. New Plymouth-born Stu studied graphic design in Wellington and worked in the advertising industry in Auckland for over five years, before returning to Taranaki with his young family. His experience across magazines and mobile media makes him a valuable contributor to Franchise New Zealand’s multi-media platforms.
‘It’s great to be involved in such a dynamic sector as franchising and to work with such a well-regarded name,’ says Stu. ‘I’m excited to help take Franchise New Zealand into a new era.’
Joining Stu and Heather are new Sales and Publication Executives, Caitlin Chatterley and Anna-Marie Staples. Caitlin brings a wealth of experience in recruitment and a passion for delivering significant value to businesses throughout New Zealand. She says, ‘I’m thrilled to be facilitating connections within the franchise community, leveraging opportunities for mutual growth and future successes in the industry.’
Anna-Marie is equally buoyed by her move to the franchising environment. With a Bachelor of Business degree and a background in marketing, sales, e-commerce strategy and operational management, Anna-Marie has run her own successful businesses, bringing rich experience in small business management. She says, ‘Franchising is an exciting sector that unlocks many opportunities for people. I love connecting with people, hearing their success stories and I look forward to being able to contribute to these successes.’
GM Sally Knight has been with Franchise New Zealand for almost 30 years and is excited about the new chapter. ‘Eden Exchange is already heavily involved in the franchise sector in Australia, and is a great fit with our existing business,’ she says.
‘Franchise New Zealand will continue to be locally-based to meet the needs of franchise buyers, franchisees and franchisors throughout the country. Eden Exchange brings added resources and expertise to the business, especially in the digital arena, and with Heather, Stu, Anna-Marie and Caitlin on board we’re looking forward to a bright future.’
