Eastland Group appoints interim chairman

Tony Gray. Picture by Strike Photography

EASTLAND Group has announced company director Tony Gray as an interim replacement for outgoing chairman Nelson Cull.

After eight years as chairman of Eastland Group, Mr Cull stepped down at the company’s annual meeting yesterday.

Eastland Group chief executive Matt Todd thanked Mr Cull for his huge contribution to the company, and welcomed Mr Gray to his new role.

“Tony has been a director of Eastland Group for the past four years and is chairman of the audit and finance committee. He has an in-depth understanding of the operations, challenges and opportunities of our various businesses.

“His breadth of expertise in the finance, infrastructure and electricity sectors in particular, is of enormous value. His governance experience is also highly regarded. Tony is the ideal choice to lead the board at this time.”

Mr Gray formerly held chief financial officer roles at Mighty River Power (for seven years) and TVNZ (12 years), and has also held executive roles with Hastings District Council and Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu.

He has been on the boards of numerous companies, including Clear Communications and Sky Network Television Ltd, and holds a number of directorships.

“This is an important year for Eastland Group, as it continues to experience strong growth and has a number of major projects in progress. These include the new Te Ahi O Maui geothermal plant, Electric Village and the port’s twin berth development,” he said.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside Nelson, the rest of the board, Matt and the Eastland Group leadership team over the last few years. I look forward to chairing the board during this period of expansion.”

As the sole shareholder, Eastland Community Trust is responsible for appointing Eastland Group’s board of independent directors.

“With Nelson Cull not seeking reappointment and the company continuing to grow, it is an appropriate time for the trust to undertake a review of the board’s make-up and composition,” said ECT chairman Michael Muir.

“We expect to have the review and appointment process completed in October or November.”