New Eastern Institute of Technology chief executive Lucy Laitinen to lead return to independence

Lucy Laitinen has been announced as the new CEO of EIT. Composite image / Jack Riddell

A high achiever is stepping into a big role at Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) as it returns to being an independent polytechnic.

The EIT council has appointed Lucy Laitinen as the new chief executive of EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti.

Laitinen brings extensive experience across international development, social services, local government and regional economic development to the role.

She is the former chief executive of Anglican Care Waiapu and had up until recently led the Hawke’s Bay Regional Economic Development Agency.

Laitinen said she is excited to join EIT as the institute prepares to stand back up as an independent polytechnic for Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti from January 1, 2026.

“EIT has been an anchor of our community for 50 years.

“I am excited to work with the new council, our staff, learners and the wider community as we re-establish our independence and lead EIT into its next era.”

Laitinen has personal and professional ties to Hawke’s Bay.

She grew up on a farm in Kererū and later lived with her family on a sheep and cattle station in Ruatōria.

She now lives near Hastings with her husband and two children.

Laitinen said her time at the Hawke’s Bay Regional Economic Development Agency gave her a strong understanding of the local economy and the region’s need for skills and qualifications.

“Our regions face serious skills shortages, and our industries are evolving rapidly.

“At the same time, living standards and educational attainment across Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti remain below the national average.

“There is a clear link between educational attainment and higher incomes and improved regional economic performance.”

Laitinen said EIT’s challenge is to strengthen industry partnerships, offer flexible relevant learning for all ages and lift learner success, particularly for Māori.

EIT council chair David Pearson said the council was pleased to welcome Laitinen to the role.

“Lucy brings a very strong skillset and a breadth of leadership experience across key sectors. We are looking forward to her leadership of our highly capable executive and staff.”

Along with being the new CEO at EIT, Laitinen also chairs Connect Community Trust which operates Kuhu Mai, the community hub for homeless in Hastings and serves on the Sacred Heart College board.

She begins her new role at EIT on January 19.

In October, former long-standing CEO Chris Collins said he was not applying for the role because of family circumstances.