At the 2023 Annual Meeting in October, the Ara Ake Shareholders re-elected Elena Trout, and elected two new Directors, Paul Goodeve and Ken Sutherland.
Paul Goodeve, a Chartered Accountant, Barrister, Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand, and a member of the Institute of Directors, is currently CEO of Clarus (formally Firstgas Group). He has an extensive background in people leadership, expertise in regulated and non-regulated transmission and distribution energy infrastructure, and leadership in renewable energy developments.
“I am excited to join the Ara Ake Board and am looking forward to sharing my energy sector knowledge, enthusiasm for renewable energy and perspective as a Taranaki local, to guide and support Ara Ake, alongside the other Board members,” says Goodeve.
Ken Sutherland has broad experience and strong leadership background in the utility, infrastructure, and electricity sectors in New Zealand. Ken is a Fellow of the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, and a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors.
Previously, Sutherland held positions with Transpower and Ports of Wellington, and most recently, Chief executive of Unison Group for the past 21 years, and Chair of the Electricity Networks Association.
“Ara Ake has a multitude of exciting initiatives underway aimed at decarbonising New Zealand, and a strong foundation in place, and I’m honoured to be involved with this important kaupapa to facilitate energy innovation,” says Sutherland.
Founding board member Rick Shera has completed his term and his important contribution was recognised at the shareholder meeting.