Helen is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience leading technology companies and driving innovation across various industries, including technology, finance, sustainability, and consumer goods. She is deeply committed to her personal mission of 'doing good at scale,' exemplified by her diverse portfolio of innovative companies that prioritise positive impact.
Current work:
As Co-founder, Executive Director, and CEO of Organic Initiative (Oi), Helen is at the forefront of a movement to remove plastics from hygiene products, contributing to a more sustainable future. Additionally, she chairs The Network for Learning Ltd (N4L), which is revolutionising education in New Zealand by implementing modern learning environments.
Helen's leadership extends to her roles as Chair of Kara Technologies Limited, pioneering AI innovations for accessibility, and Chair of Astrix Astronautics Ltd, spearheading transformative technologies for spacecraft. She also holds directorships in organisations such as the Local Government Funding Agency (LGFA), Generate Kiwisaver, and NZ Tech, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping New Zealand's tech sector.
Previous experience:
Her illustrious career includes executive positions such as Managing Director of Microsoft New Zealand (NZ) and Head of Pivotal Corporation Asia Pacific. Notably, she founded Organic Initiative Ltd (Oi), a company dedicated to eliminating single-use plastic and toxic chemicals from hygiene products, with a presence spanning the USA, Australia, and NZ.
Awards:
Helen's contributions have garnered widespread recognition, including the prestigious Queen’s Honours Awards, where she was named an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for her outstanding services to technology and business. She has also been honored with the Supreme Women of Influence Award in 2016 and has been celebrated as the Most Inspiring Individual at the NZ Innovation Awards 2017, among numerous other accolades.
Throughout her career, Helen has remained steadfast in her dedication to improving the quality of life for all and delivering value to stakeholders through innovation and technology. Her unwavering passion and drive continue to drive positive change on a global scale.
