New board chair for Trust Tairāwhiti looking forward to the 'challenges and opportunities that await'

David Battin

David Battin has been unanimously appointed as the new board chair for Trust Tairāwhiti.

The chair position was previously held by John Clarke, who will remain a trustee and support Mr Battin as deputy chair for a transition period.

The chief financial officer for Mangatu Blocks Incorporated, Mr Battin is a chartered accountant with over 10 years of experience in the financial and business sector.

Gisborne District Council first appointed him as a trustee in June this year.

Trust chief executive Doug Jones said he was pleased to see Mr Battin progress into his new role on the board.

“David brings strong commercial, financial and engagement experience to the board table,” Mr Jones said.

“Together with trustees, we look forward to working alongside David as we head into an impactful new year for the trust.”

With whakapapa to Te Arawa, Mr Battin has lived in Tūranganui-a-Kiwa for the past 15 years.

He has held governance roles on several trusts, including chair of the National Māori Accountants Network – Ngā Kaitatau Māori o Aotearoa and a trustee of Tairāwhiti Whenua Charitable Trust.

Mr Battin acknowledged Mr Clarke for his significant contributions to Trust Tairāwhiti during his two-and-a-half years as chair.

“John has provided invaluable guidance and expertise around the trust table, and we’re fortunate to have him continue with the board.

“ It’s a privilege to be appointed by my fellow trustees as chair, and I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that await us.”