⚠️ Our phones are currently down. Please email us at info@brightstar.co.nz and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. We apologise for the inconvenience.

Accounting & Finance Conference, get your CPD points, trusted CPD partner

One Stop - Update for the Accountant in Business

CV005 58th logo

12 - 13 May 2026 | Wellington

20 - 21 May 2026 | Auckland & Virtual

Updates | Strategy | Leadership | CPD Hours

The 58th One Stop has two stops - Auckland & Wellington

+ virtual tickets available for the Auckland agenda / dates 20-21 May, 2026

Get the essential update tailored to accountants in business at this bi-annual event & earn up to 15 CPD hours.

The rapid pace of economic shifts, regulatory change, technological disruption, and evolving business expectations continues to shape the work of accountants in Aotearoa New Zealand. The 2026 One Stop Update for the Accountant in Business brings together the essential insights, tools, and practical knowledge you need to stay ahead.

Join us to:

  • Hear global and local economic updates and what they mean for New Zealand organisations
  • Understand the latest developments in tax, employment law, IFRS, technology and more
  • Explore ethical expectations and real-world dilemmas facing today’s accounting professionals
  • Strengthen your leadership, communication, resilience, and people-focused skills to elevate your impact as a finance leader

Why join One Stop?

  • Virtual and in-person learning opportunities
  • All-in-one opportunity to hear the latest updates for the accounting profession
  • Connect with like-minded accountants, keen to be at the top of their game
  • Gain up to 15 CPD points 
Asset 3CPD stamp yellow

CPD Hours

The CPD conference trusted by accountants and finance professionals for over 27 years.

Earn a majority of your annual verifiable CPD including ethics in our punchy, informative conference.

Venue - Wellington

Address:

James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
147 The Terrace, Wellington Central

 

Venue - Auckland

Address:

Four Points by Sheraton
396 Queen Street and
Main Reception Entrance:
110 Mayoral Drive, Auckland

Virtual Ticket Option on 20-21 May, 2026.

Attend One Stop online from the comfort of your office or at home. Virtual option is based on the Auckland agenda.

On-demand content

Watch when your schedule allows: Every ticket includes on-demand access to presentations

Conference content will be available on-demand for 60 days.

Agenda 2026

8:00

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

9:10

One Stop Update on the Global Macro-Economic Outlook and Trade Policies

  • Exploring the global economic outlook and its impact on New Zealand’s economic performance

  • Geopolitics and international relations – Trump, trade and tariffs: What will these mean for us

  • Discussing global inflation trends and their impact on New Zealand’s monetary policy

  • Global trade policy developments and New Zealand’s trade relationships

  • Examining global trends and challenges including sustainability, digital, supply chain resilience and logistics on New Zealand competitiveness

Stephen Jacobi, Managing Director, Jacobi Consulting

9:55

One Stop New Zealand Economic Update

  • Exploring the current state of New Zealand’s economy and business confidence

  • Predicting what we might see in 2026 – where are we heading next?

  • Discussing sectoral performance and their unique opportunities and challenges

  • Understanding the key sectors driving economic momentum and those facing challenges

  • Implications of the current economic situation for businesses

Tony Alexander, Economic Thought Leader

10:40

Morning break

11:10

The One Stop Ethics Update: Tax Planning, Sustainability, Use of Experts, Disciplinary Decisions and more

  • Understand the latest proposed updates to NZICA’s Code of Ethics and the outlook for future developments

  • Gain practical insight into ethical matters by exploring recent decisions from NZICA’s disciplinary bodies

Tracy Bignell, Principal Advisor - NZ Professional Standards and Member Care, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand

11:50

Leading with impact: Essential Leadership Skills for Accountants in Business

  • How accountants are stepping up as strategic leaders shaping business decisions

  • Mastering communication and influence to drive impact across the organisation

  • Inspiring and leading teams to deliver exceptional performance

  • Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion for stronger, high performing teams

  • Leading with integrity and embedding ethics at the heart of every decision

  • Cultivating resilience for yourself and your team to thrive under pressure

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

12:30

Lunch

13:30

The One Stop Employment Law Update

  • Key changes in New Zealand employment law

  • Understanding changes regarding the high income threshold, unfair dismissal and recruiting highly paid roles

  • A practical overview of the upcoming Holidays Act reforms, outlining likely changes to leave entitlements and calculations

  • The costs of terminating employment – redundancy compensation, agreed exits, and unlawful dismissals

Emma von Veh, Partner, Buddle Findlay

14:10

Effective Communication and Influencing Skills for Accountants

  • Why reports written for accountability often fail the people who need to make decisions

  • How to get clear on the business problem and who's in the room before you start communicating

  • A practical tool for turning financial findings into clear recommendations

  • How to design data visuals that support your narrative rather than replace it

Kat Greenbrook, Data Storyteller and Founder, Rogue Penguin

15:00

Afternoon break

15:30

Balanced Decisions: Aligning audit, Risk and Board Governance

  • Enhance board understanding of risk and audit fundamentals to support informed decision-making

  • Clarify the role of risk and audit functions in governance and strategic oversight

  • Apply practical strategies to improve board audit or risk literacy and engagement

  • Communicate risk and audit matters effectively to support decision making

Malcolm Bruce, Partner, KPMG

16:10

The One Stop C-Suite Interview: Making the Switch from Technical Expert to Strategic Leader

  • Making the leap to CFO: shifting from detail to big-picture thinking, and from control to leading through ambiguity, risk, and incomplete information

  • Leading strategy, forecasting, and influence: how CFOs shape direction and decide “what next”

  • From technical expert to organisational leader: building culture, managing people challenges, and partnering effectively with CEOs and executives

  • What to build now: critical skills, mindset shifts, and lessons CFOs wish they knew before stepping into the role

Julia Fink, CFO, Climate Change Commission

16:50

Summary remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

17:00

Day 1 close & networking drinks

8:00

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

9:10

Startup Story: From Idea to Revenue – Lessons for Accounting & Finance Leaders

  • Hear practical lessons from building an idea into a profitable business, with insights for accountants supporting innovative clients

  • Financial lessons learned in managing cash flow, funding, and scaling operations

  • Challenges in compliance, reporting, and accounting in a startup environment

  • How accountants can add value and support business growth in early-stage companies

  • Practical takeaways for translating startup experiences into professional insights

Cormac Denton, Managing Director, Playdough

9:50

One Stop Tax Update

  • Key updates and emerging issues in income tax, employment tax, and GST

  • Inland Revenue’s current compliance activity and audit focus areas — and what these mean for organisations in 2026

  • Recent Inland Revenue statements and rulings and the practical implications for taxpayers

  • Looking ahead to the Government’s refreshed Tax Work Programme and Budget 2026 predictions in an election year

Robyn Walker, Partner, and Hiran Patel, Director, Deloitte

10:30

Morning break

11:00

AI in Accounting & Finance

  • Overview of AI technologies and their relevance to accounting and finance

  • How AI automates repetitive tasks and enables more strategic work

  • How AI is transforming financial reporting and analysis

  • How AI can streamline tax preparation and compliance

  • Practical guidance for implementing AI solutions and overcoming challenges

James Carolan, Senior Manager, PwC

11:40

Case Study: Technology in Action—Solving Real Business Problems

  • The challenge - A real-world business problem that required a more efficient, scalable solution

  • The implementation - How innovative technology was selected, introduced, and integrated into existing workflows

  • Overcoming roadblocks - Common barriers such as resistance to change, data issues, or system compatibility and how they were addressed

  • Results & Lessons Learned - Measurable efficiencies gained, business impact, and practical tips for successfully adopting new technology

Hannah Howard, GM Finance & Commercial, Technology and AI, One New Zealand

12:20

Protecting Financial Data: Essential Cybersecurity Strategies for Accountants

  • Understanding current cybersecurity threats and emerging attack types such as ransomware and deepfakes highlighting cyber risk as a core business risk

  • Assessing AI use, supply-chain due diligence, data protection, insurance considerations, and the legal and financial consequences of cyber incidents

  • Strengthening people, processes, and leadership to reduce human risk and embed cyber security beyond a tick-box approach

Liz Knight, Head of Cyber Security, Theta

1:00

Lunch

14:00

One Stop IFRS Update: Exploring global consistency and local flexibility

  • Exploring the vision of IFRS as a single global accounting and sustainability language

  • How jurisdictions, including New Zealand, adapt IFRS to local contexts

  • The role of the IASB, ISSB, and regulators in balancing alignment and flexibility

  • Practical strategies to maintain global credibility while ensuring local relevance

David Pacey, Partner, Grant Thornton

14:40

Building Resilience and Wellbeing for You and Your Finance Team

  • Strategies to enhance personal resilience and manage stress in a high-pressure finance environment

  • Promoting mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing within finance teams

  • Techniques to create a supportive, adaptable, and productive team culture

  • Practical approaches for leaders to foster resilience and wellbeing while maintaining performance

Julie Cressey, General Manager, TelusHealth

15:20

Summary remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

15:30

Conference close

8:00

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

9:10

One Stop Update on the global macro-economic outlook and trade policies

  • Exploring the global economic outlook and its impact on New Zealand’s economic performance

  • Geopolitics and international relations – Trump, trade and tariffs: What will these mean for us

  • Discussing global inflation trends and their impact on New Zealand’s monetary policy

  • Global trade policy developments and New Zealand’s trade relationships

  • Examining global trends and challenges including sustainability, digital, supply chain resilience and logistics on New Zealand competitiveness

Stephen Jacobi, Managing Director, Jacobi Consulting

9:55

One Stop New Zealand Economic Update

  • Exploring the current state of New Zealand’s economy and business confidence

  • Predicting what we might see in 2026 – where are we heading next?

  • Discussing sectoral performance and their unique opportunities and challenges

  • Understanding the key sectors driving economic momentum and those facing challenges

  • Implications of the current economic situation for businesses

Tony Alexander, Economic Thought Leader

10:40

Morning break

11:10

The One Stop Ethics Update: Tax Planning, Sustainability, Use of Experts, Disciplinary Decisions and more

  • Understand the latest proposed updates to NZICA’s Code of Ethics and the outlook for future developments

  • Gain practical insight into ethical matters by exploring recent decisions from NZICA’s disciplinary bodies

Peter Vial, New Zealand Country Head, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand

11:50

Leading with impact: Essential leadership skills for accountants in business

  • How accountants are stepping up as strategic leaders shaping business decisions

  • Mastering communication and influence to drive impact across the organisation

  • Inspiring and leading teams to deliver exceptional performance

  • Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion for stronger, high performing teams

  • Leading with integrity and embedding ethics at the heart of every decision

  • Cultivating resilience for yourself and your team to thrive under pressure

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

12:30

Lunch

13:30

The One Stop Employment Law Update

  • Key changes in New Zealand employment law

  • Understanding changes regarding the high income threshold, unfair dismissal and recruiting highly paid roles

  • A practical overview of the upcoming Holidays Act reforms, outlining likely changes to leave entitlements and calculations

  • The costs of terminating employment – redundancy compensation, agreed exits, and unlawful dismissals

Emma von Veh, Partner, Buddle Findlay

14:10

Effective communication and influencing skills for Accountants

  • Communicating technical information and financial data clearly and concisely for your audience

  • Framing solutions and problem solving to support impactful outcomes

  • Leveraging smart data, reporting and partnerships to maximise business value

  • Practical tips for building influence at executive and board level

Debbie D'Souza, Financial Controller/FP&A Manager, Mars

15:00

Afternoon break

15:30

One Stop IFRS Update: Exploring global consistency and local flexibility

  • Exploring the vision of IFRS as a single global accounting and sustainability language

  • How jurisdictions, including New Zealand, adapt IFRS to local contexts

  • The role of the IASB, ISSB, and regulators in balancing alignment and flexibility

  • Practical strategies to maintain global credibility while ensuring local relevance

David Pacey, Partner, Grant Thornton

16:10

The One Stop C-Suite Interview: Making the Switch from Technical Expert to Strategic Leader

  • Work habits and practices that maximise individual and team effectiveness

  • Approaches to managing people issues, building culture, and resolving conflict

  • Practical strategies for interacting with the CEO and other executives to influence and collaborate effectively

  • Key learnings and lessons from the experiences that have made these CFOs successful

Stephen Morgan, General Manager - Finance and Commercial, Champion Flour Milling and 2025 NZ CFO of the Year

16:50

Summary remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

17:00

Day 1 close & networking drinks

8:00

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

9:10

Startup Story: From Idea to Revenue – Lessons for Accounting & Finance Leaders

  • Hear practical lessons from building an idea into a profitable business, with insights for accountants supporting innovative clients

  • Financial lessons learned in managing cash flow, funding, and scaling operations

  • Challenges in compliance, reporting, and accounting in a startup environment

  • How accountants can add value and support business growth in early-stage companies

  • Practical takeaways for translating startup experiences into professional insights

Mike Mandis, Co-CEO, Oxygen

9:50

One Stop Tax Update

  • Key updates and emerging issues in income tax, employment tax, and GST

  • Inland Revenue’s current compliance activity and audit focus areas — and what these mean for organisations in 2026

  • Recent Inland Revenue statements and rulings and the practical implications for taxpayers

  • Looking ahead to the Government’s refreshed Tax Work Programme and Budget 2026 predictions in an election year

Alex Kingston, Partner, Deloitte

10:30

Morning break

11:00

AI in Accounting & Finance

  • Overview of AI technologies and their relevance to accounting and finance

  • How AI automates repetitive tasks and enables more strategic work

  • How AI is transforming financial reporting and analysis

  • How AI can streamline tax preparation and compliance

  • Practical guidance for implementing AI solutions and overcoming challenges

Nick Johnson, Senior Manager, KPMG

11:40

Case Study: Technology in Action—Solving Real Business Problems

  • The challenge - A real-world business problem that required a more efficient, scalable solution

  • The implementation - How innovative technology was selected, introduced, and integrated into existing workflows

  • Overcoming roadblocks - Common barriers such as resistance to change, data issues, or system compatibility and how they were addressed

  • Results & Lessons Learned - Measurable efficiencies gained, business impact, and practical tips for successfully adopting new technology

Hannah Howard, GM Finance & Commercial, Technology and AI, One New Zealand

12:20

Protecting Financial Data: Essential Cybersecurity Strategies for Accountants

  • Understanding current cybersecurity threats and emerging attack types such as ransomware and deepfakes highlighting cyber risk as a core business risk

  • Assessing AI use, supply-chain due diligence, data protection, insurance considerations, and the legal and financial consequences of cyber incidents

  • Strengthening people, processes, and leadership to reduce human risk and embed cyber security beyond a tick-box approach

Liz Knight, Head of Cyber Security, Theta

1:00

Lunch

14:00

Balanced Decisions: Aligning Risk, Audit, and Board Governance

  • Strengthening board capability through a clear understanding of risk management and assurance fundamentals

  • Practical approaches to lift board risk literacy, enabling more confident challenge, oversight and engagement

  • Defining and differentiating the role of risk and assurance functions in strategic oversight, governance and informed board decision‑making

  • Leveraging risk and assurance capability to support balanced, value‑focused decisions that protect and enhance organisational performance

Nigel Toms, GM Risk and Assurance, Watercare Services Limited

14:40

Building Resilience and Wellbeing for You and Your Finance Team

  • Strategies to enhance personal resilience and manage stress in a high-pressure finance environment

  • Promoting mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing within finance teams

  • Techniques to create a supportive, adaptable, and productive team culture

  • Practical approaches for leaders to foster resilience and wellbeing while maintaining performance

Julie Cressey, General Manager, TelusHealth

15:20

Summary remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

15:30

Conference close

8:00

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

9:10

One Stop Update on the global macro-economic outlook and trade policies

  • Exploring the global economic outlook and its impact on New Zealand’s economic performance

  • Geopolitics and international relations – Trump, trade and tariffs: What will these mean for us

  • Discussing global inflation trends and their impact on New Zealand’s monetary policy

  • Global trade policy developments and New Zealand’s trade relationships

  • Examining global trends and challenges including sustainability, digital, supply chain resilience and logistics on New Zealand competitiveness

Stephen Jacobi, Managing Director, Jacobi Consulting

9:55

One Stop New Zealand Economic Update

  • Exploring the current state of New Zealand’s economy and business confidence

  • Predicting what we might see in 2026 – where are we heading next?

  • Discussing sectoral performance and their unique opportunities and challenges

  • Understanding the key sectors driving economic momentum and those facing challenges

  • Implications of the current economic situation for businesses

Tony Alexander, Economic Thought Leader

10:40

Morning break

11:10

The One Stop Ethics Update: Tax Planning, Sustainability, Use of Experts, Disciplinary Decisions and more

  • Understand the latest proposed updates to NZICA’s Code of Ethics and the outlook for future developments

  • Gain practical insight into ethical matters by exploring recent decisions from NZICA’s disciplinary bodies

Peter Vial, New Zealand Country Head, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand

11:50

Leading with impact: Essential leadership skills for accountants in business

  • How accountants are stepping up as strategic leaders shaping business decisions

  • Mastering communication and influence to drive impact across the organisation

  • Inspiring and leading teams to deliver exceptional performance

  • Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion for stronger, high performing teams

  • Leading with integrity and embedding ethics at the heart of every decision

  • Cultivating resilience for yourself and your team to thrive under pressure

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

12:30

Lunch

13:30

The One Stop Employment Law Update

  • Key changes in New Zealand employment law

  • Understanding changes regarding the high income threshold, unfair dismissal and recruiting highly paid roles

  • A practical overview of the upcoming Holidays Act reforms, outlining likely changes to leave entitlements and calculations

  • The costs of terminating employment – redundancy compensation, agreed exits, and unlawful dismissals

Emma von Veh, Partner, Buddle Findlay

14:10

Effective communication and influencing skills for Accountants

  • Communicating technical information and financial data clearly and concisely for your audience

  • Framing solutions and problem solving to support impactful outcomes

  • Leveraging smart data, reporting and partnerships to maximise business value

  • Practical tips for building influence at executive and board level

Debbie D'Souza, Financial Controller/FP&A Manager, Mars

15:00

Afternoon break

15:30

One Stop IFRS Update: Exploring global consistency and local flexibility

  • Exploring the vision of IFRS as a single global accounting and sustainability language

  • How jurisdictions, including New Zealand, adapt IFRS to local contexts

  • The role of the IASB, ISSB, and regulators in balancing alignment and flexibility

  • Practical strategies to maintain global credibility while ensuring local relevance

David Pacey, Partner, Grant Thornton

16:10

The One Stop C-Suite Interview: Making the Switch from Technical Expert to Strategic Leader

  • Work habits and practices that maximise individual and team effectiveness

  • Approaches to managing people issues, building culture, and resolving conflict

  • Practical strategies for interacting with the CEO and other executives to influence and collaborate effectively

  • Key learnings and lessons from the experiences that have made these CFOs successful

Stephen Morgan, General Manager - Finance and Commercial, Champion Flour Milling and 2025 NZ CFO of the Year

16:50

Summary remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

17:00

Day 1 close & networking drinks

8:00

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

9:10

Startup Story: From Idea to Revenue – Lessons for Accounting & Finance Leaders

  • Hear practical lessons from building an idea into a profitable business, with insights for accountants supporting innovative clients

  • Financial lessons learned in managing cash flow, funding, and scaling operations

  • Challenges in compliance, reporting, and accounting in a startup environment

  • How accountants can add value and support business growth in early-stage companies

  • Practical takeaways for translating startup experiences into professional insights

Mike Mandis, Co-CEO, Oxygen

9:50

One Stop Tax Update

  • Key updates and emerging issues in income tax, employment tax, and GST

  • Inland Revenue’s current compliance activity and audit focus areas — and what these mean for organisations in 2026

  • Recent Inland Revenue statements and rulings and the practical implications for taxpayers

  • Looking ahead to the Government’s refreshed Tax Work Programme and Budget 2026 predictions in an election year

Alex Kingston, Partner, Deloitte

10:30

Morning break

11:00

AI in Accounting & Finance

  • Overview of AI technologies and their relevance to accounting and finance

  • How AI automates repetitive tasks and enables more strategic work

  • How AI is transforming financial reporting and analysis

  • How AI can streamline tax preparation and compliance

  • Practical guidance for implementing AI solutions and overcoming challenges

Nick Johnson, Senior Manager, KPMG

11:40

Case Study: Technology in Action—Solving Real Business Problems

  • The challenge - A real-world business problem that required a more efficient, scalable solution

  • The implementation - How innovative technology was selected, introduced, and integrated into existing workflows

  • Overcoming roadblocks - Common barriers such as resistance to change, data issues, or system compatibility and how they were addressed

  • Results & Lessons Learned - Measurable efficiencies gained, business impact, and practical tips for successfully adopting new technology

Hannah Howard, GM Finance & Commercial, Technology and AI, One New Zealand

12:20

Protecting Financial Data: Essential Cybersecurity Strategies for Accountants

  • Understanding current cybersecurity threats and emerging attack types such as ransomware and deepfakes highlighting cyber risk as a core business risk

  • Assessing AI use, supply-chain due diligence, data protection, insurance considerations, and the legal and financial consequences of cyber incidents

  • Strengthening people, processes, and leadership to reduce human risk and embed cyber security beyond a tick-box approach

Liz Knight, Head of Cyber Security, Theta

1:00

Lunch

14:00

Balanced Decisions: Aligning Risk, Audit, and Board Governance

  • Strengthening board capability through a clear understanding of risk management and assurance fundamentals

  • Practical approaches to lift board risk literacy, enabling more confident challenge, oversight and engagement

  • Defining and differentiating the role of risk and assurance functions in strategic oversight, governance and informed board decision‑making

  • Leveraging risk and assurance capability to support balanced, value‑focused decisions that protect and enhance organisational performance

Nigel Toms, GM Risk and Assurance, Watercare Services Limited

14:40

Building Resilience and Wellbeing for You and Your Finance Team

  • Strategies to enhance personal resilience and manage stress in a high-pressure finance environment

  • Promoting mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing within finance teams

  • Techniques to create a supportive, adaptable, and productive team culture

  • Practical approaches for leaders to foster resilience and wellbeing while maintaining performance

Julie Cressey, General Manager, TelusHealth

15:20

Summary remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

15:30

Conference close

Speakers to be announced

Auckland Speakers

Hannah Howard

GM Finance & Commercial, Technology & AI
One New Zealand
Hannah Howard is General Manager of Commercial & Finance for Technology, Data & AI at One NZ. Her team works across the company’s technology landscape to support sound investment decisions, network monetisation, and cost optimisation, bringing a commercial lens to some of the business’s most complex and fast-moving areas. Hannah is also at the forefront of practical AI adoption within finance, with her team leading initiatives that use AI to assess the accounting treatment of large-scale SaaS implementation programmes and to streamline business case development through automation. Her work is focused on turning AI strategy into practical, scalable business value.

Liz Knight

Head of Cyber Security
Theta
Liz Knight is a senior cyber and security leader with ten years’ experience delivering security strategy, operations and compliance across New Zealand and international markets. Since 2016 she’s led engineering and security teams, most recently heading Cyber Security at Theta where she manages a team cyber and network security specialists. She’s an ISO 27001 Certified Lead Auditor and Privacy Officer, and contributes to GenAI governance.

Emma von Veh

Partner
Buddle Findlay

Emma is a respected employment specialist who advises public and private sector clients on all aspects of the employment relationship. This includes collective and individual employment agreements, disciplinary processes, bullying and harassment investigations, restructuring, personal grievances, employment and industrial aspects of mergers, acquisitions and statutory transfers, contractor/employee disputes, health and safety, and human rights and privacy matters.

 Emma prides herself in assisting parties navigate difficult and complex issues in a way that minimises the risk of litigation, and damage to reputation and relationships.

 Emma has experience in dispute resolution, and has represented clients in the Employment Relations Authority, Employment Court, Court of Appeal, and Human Rights Review Tribunal.  Emma also regularly represents clients at mediation.

Stephen Morgan

General Manager – Finance and Commercial
Champion Flour Milling
Stephen Morgan is the 2025 NZ CFO of the Year and General Manager – Finance and Commercial at Champion Flour Milling. With over two decades of experience across multinational and local FMCG, manufacturing, and retail sectors, including pivotal roles at Coca-Cola NZ, Tegel Foods, and L’Oréal UK. His expertise covers commercial finance, supply chain, and operational leadership.
Stephen is recognized for his visionary leadership and ability to drive transformation in complex environments. He has steered Champion Flour Milling through global supply shocks, major ERP implementation, and operational crises— building a culture of collaboration and innovation. Stephen’s passion for developing high-performing teams has seen his finance group named finalists for NZ Finance Team of the Year.
Stephen is a trusted advisor, mentor, and advocate for excellence. His story is one of resilience, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership—motivating others to embrace change and make a meaningful impact.

Peter Vial

NZ Country Head
Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
Peter Vial has been New Zealand Country Head at Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand since 2017.   In this role he leads the NZ regulatory, professional conduct and advocacy functions. He is a Fellow Chartered Accountant and a lawyer.  Earlier in his career Peter worked for PwC and KPMG in Tax and for the NZ Trade Development Board as a Trade Commissioner in Europe.  He has also been an Associate Professor at Auckland University.

Alex Kingston

Partner
Deloitte
Alex is a Partner in Deloitte’s Auckland Corporate Tax team, with over 16 years’ experience advising clients on a wide range of corporate and international tax issues. Alex’s experience includes managing the tax function for a global technology group, and his current focus is on the financial services, technology, and health / aged care sectors.

Julie Cressey

General Manager
TELUS Health New Zealand
Julie Cressey is the General Manager of TELUS Health New Zealand, where she leads the New Zealand business operations and serves as a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing, making a meaningful difference in workplace mental health on a daily basis. As a recognised thought leader in the field, Julie spearheads innovative initiatives that address critical workplace mental health challenges across New Zealand. She brings a unique combination of strategic business leadership, deep mental health expertise, and practical implementation experience and offers audiences actionable insights and real-world business application, making her an invaluable voice in New Zealand’s evolving landscape of workplace mental health and employee wellbeing. Additionally, Julie currently serves as President of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association of Australasia (EAPAA).

David Pacey

Partner
Grant Thornton

Debbie D’Souza

Financial Controller/FP&A Manager
Mars

Cameron Fraser

Director
Fraser Strategic Solutions
Cameron Fraser is a Director of Fraser Strategic Solutions, specialising in financial modelling services.  Prior to that, he was at Electric Kiwi for 8 years, finishing up as Head of Commercial Finance covering financial forecasting, pricing and SQL reporting.  He also worked at PwC in Tax and Consulting.  He is a Chartered Accountant and holds a Certificate of Public Practice.  Outside of work, Cameron spends time with his young family, ballroom dancing and competing in international Excel and Financial Modelling competitions.

Nigel Toms

GM Risk and Assurance
Watercare Services

Nigel is the general manager of risk and assurance at Watercare which provides water and wastewater services to 1.7 million people in Auckland. It has 1300 staff, annual revenue of $970 million and a capital programme exceeding $1 billion per year.

Nigel strategically manages the company’s risks, focusing on service quality, business continuity, and incident preparedness including acting as the senior incident controller for responses to major incidents.

Nigel is a former chair of RiskNZ and was named RiskNZ risk professional of the year in 2021 for his industry-leading work on using risk to build strategic advantage and future state preparedness in large organisations. He is also the technical author of PAS 60518, published by the International Standards Organisation (ISO).

Nigel is a qualified accountant with extensive financial and governance experience including chief financial officer roles in New Zealand and United Kingdom. Nigel’s governance roles include Co-Chair for Toi Ora Live Art Trust.

Tony Alexander

Economics Thought Leader
Tony Alexander was Chief Economist at the BNZ for almost 25 years and has been out on his own as an independent economist since late-2019. He distributes the free weekly “Tony’s View” publication to over 29,000 subscribers each week, writes a weekly column for OneRoof, has a weekly video blog, and speaks at about 80 functions a year around New Zealand. He also runs five monthly surveys which give coalface insight into what is happening in NZ industry and the housing market in particular.

Wellington Speakers

Hannah Howard

GM Finance & Commercial, Technology & AI
One New Zealand
Hannah Howard is General Manager of Commercial & Finance for Technology, Data & AI at One NZ. Her team works across the company’s technology landscape to support sound investment decisions, network monetisation, and cost optimisation, bringing a commercial lens to some of the business’s most complex and fast-moving areas. Hannah is also at the forefront of practical AI adoption within finance, with her team leading initiatives that use AI to assess the accounting treatment of large-scale SaaS implementation programmes and to streamline business case development through automation. Her work is focused on turning AI strategy into practical, scalable business value.

James Carolan

Senior Manager
PwC New Zealand
James Carolan is a Senior Manager in PwC New Zealand’s Gen AI Enablement team. He helps organisations upskill their people to use AI effectively and embed practical AI workflows that improve capability, efficiency and decision-making. His work focuses on responsible AI adoption, enablement, automation and helping teams apply AI in real business settings.

Kat Greenbrook

Data Storyteller and Founder
Rogue Penguin
Kat Greenbrook is a Data Storyteller based in Te Whanganui a Tara, and Director of Rogue Penguin. She supports teams to tell clearer, more responsible stories with data.

Robyn Walker

Partner
Deloitte
I am a Partner within the Tax Team at Deloitte in New Zealand. This involves many things, including preparing submissions on behalf of Deloitte and developing thought leadership in the area of tax. I like to think about how tax developments really impact on Deloitte’s clients. I have a particular interest in tax policy and keeping up to date with all the many tax developments. I help Deloitte to advise the Corporate Taxpayers Group.

Liz Knight

Head of Cyber Security
Theta
Liz Knight is a senior cyber and security leader with ten years’ experience delivering security strategy, operations and compliance across New Zealand and international markets. Since 2016 she’s led engineering and security teams, most recently heading Cyber Security at Theta where she manages a team cyber and network security specialists. She’s an ISO 27001 Certified Lead Auditor and Privacy Officer, and contributes to GenAI governance.

Emma von Veh

Partner
Buddle Findlay

Emma is a respected employment specialist who advises public and private sector clients on all aspects of the employment relationship. This includes collective and individual employment agreements, disciplinary processes, bullying and harassment investigations, restructuring, personal grievances, employment and industrial aspects of mergers, acquisitions and statutory transfers, contractor/employee disputes, health and safety, and human rights and privacy matters.

 Emma prides herself in assisting parties navigate difficult and complex issues in a way that minimises the risk of litigation, and damage to reputation and relationships.

 Emma has experience in dispute resolution, and has represented clients in the Employment Relations Authority, Employment Court, Court of Appeal, and Human Rights Review Tribunal.  Emma also regularly represents clients at mediation.

Julie Cressey

General Manager
TELUS Health New Zealand
Julie Cressey is the General Manager of TELUS Health New Zealand, where she leads the New Zealand business operations and serves as a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing, making a meaningful difference in workplace mental health on a daily basis. As a recognised thought leader in the field, Julie spearheads innovative initiatives that address critical workplace mental health challenges across New Zealand. She brings a unique combination of strategic business leadership, deep mental health expertise, and practical implementation experience and offers audiences actionable insights and real-world business application, making her an invaluable voice in New Zealand’s evolving landscape of workplace mental health and employee wellbeing. Additionally, Julie currently serves as President of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association of Australasia (EAPAA).

David Pacey

Partner
Grant Thornton

Julia Fink

CA ANZ
Vice President
ulia is the Chief Financial Officer at the Climate Change Commission and a small business owner. She started her accounting career at Deloitte in Audit, moving into Deloitte Private. Julia was heavily involved in the roll out of public benefit entity financial reporting standards for registered charities in her former role at DIA Charities Services. This role led to her current position as a Board member of the External Reporting Board. Julia has been involved with CA ANZ since she was a provisional member, serving on the Women Accountants and Not for Profit Special Interest Group committees in Wellington, the Charities and Not for Profit Trans-Tasman Advisory Committee and the Wellington Local Committee and as a New Zealand Councillor. Julia was instrumental in setting up the CA ANZ Charity Reporting Awards and the Charity Law, Accounting and Regulation Conference.

Malcolm Bruce

Partner
KPMG
Malcolm is an experienced professional, having been held multiple roles, from being an Audit partner – signing off on financial statements for a range of clients – to being the Chief Risk Officer at Kiwibank, and more recently providing Advisory and Consulting advice to clients across Governance, Risk and Compliance services. This gives Malcolm an exceptionally wide perspective to bring to his conversations.  Malcolm specialises in the financial services sector but has advised clients across a range of industries.  Malcolm leads a team with extensive experience in non-financial risk management, ranging from Conduct and Remediation, to meeting laws and compliance obligations to managing regulatory expectations.  Malcolm has significant experience working with Boards, Executives and Regulators. Businesses are facing increasing numbers of challenges from both handling existing business requirements, doing more for less, to facing a raft of new expectations, requirements and emerging threats.  He will share some of his learnings.

Tony Alexander

Economics Thought Leader
Tony Alexander was Chief Economist at the BNZ for almost 25 years and has been out on his own as an independent economist since late-2019. He distributes the free weekly “Tony’s View” publication to over 29,000 subscribers each week, writes a weekly column for OneRoof, has a weekly video blog, and speaks at about 80 functions a year around New Zealand. He also runs five monthly surveys which give coalface insight into what is happening in NZ industry and the housing market in particular.

Stephen Jacobi

Managing Director
Jacobi Consulting
Stephen Jacobi is Managing Director of Jacobi Consulting Ltd and NZ Director for the Australia NZ Leadership Forum.  A former trade analyst, diplomat and industry association CEO Stephen led the NZ International Business Forum until earlier this year and has served as Executive Director of the NZ/US and NZ/China Councils.  He is a well-known public commentator on trade and industry issues.

Sponsorship

Don't miss out on the connections and credibility boost!

Live B2B events are your chance to shine. Showcase your thought leadership, solidify your market position, and forge valuable connections with potential customers – all at once.

This exclusive event puts you in front of a highly skilled audience hungry for insights. Get ready for meaningful engagement that drives results.

Plus, we have some unique opportunities to put your company, products, and services in the spotlight.

Ready to take your brand to the next level? Contact us today to learn more or secure your spot at this leading event.

Choose where you will get your CPD hours from

Wellington Tickets (12-13 May)

LAST MINUTE

$ 2499 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 12 May, 2026.

Group 3+

$ 1699 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 12 May, 2026.

SUPER SAVER

$2499
$ 1999 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 27 March, 2026.

EARLY BIRD

$2499
$ 2299 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 17 April, 2026.

Group 3+

$2499
$ 1699 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 12 May, 2026.

Auckland Tickets (20-21 May)

LAST MINUTE

$ 2499 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 20 May, 2026.

Group 3+

$ 1699 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 20 May, 2026.

SUPER SAVER

$2499
$ 1999 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 27 March, 2026.

EARLY BIRD

$2499
$ 2299 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 17 April, 2026.

Group 3+

$2499
$ 1699 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 20 May, 2026.

Virtual Tickets (20-21 May)

LAST MINUTE

$ 2199 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 20 May, 2026.

Group 3+

$ 1599 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 20 May, 2026.

SUPER SAVER

$2199
$ 1799 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 27 March, 2026.

EARLY BIRD

$2199
$ 1999 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 17 April, 2026.

Group 3+

$2199
$ 1599 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 20 May, 2026.

Registration Conditions

Ticket Terms
All prices are in New Zealand dollars ($NZD)
A surcharge of 2.5% + GST applies to credit card payments on top of the total amount.
Pre-Sale Tickets are valid only for the specific event for which they were purchased and cannot be transferred to other events. To remain valid, Super Saver and Early Bird tickets must be paid by date quoted.
Group ticket options are valid for registrations from the same organisation, booked at the same time.
By selecting any special pricing offer for classes of organisation, sector, or individuals or using any promotion code, you are asserting to the organiser your right to claim any such pricing offer, and acknowledge the organiser’s right to audit such claim and, if in the opinion of the organiser using its sole discretion the conditions for special pricing are not met, reject any registration.

For full terms & conditions, please visit https://www.brightstar.co.nz/terms-and-conditions

Check out our other upcoming events

The 58th One Stop has two stops - Auckland & Wellington

+ virtual tickets available for the Auckland agenda / dates 20-21 May, 2026

Get the essential update tailored to accountants in business at this bi-annual event & earn up to 15 CPD hours.

The rapid pace of economic shifts, regulatory change, technological disruption, and evolving business expectations continues to shape the work of accountants in Aotearoa New Zealand. The 2026 One Stop Update for the Accountant in Business brings together the essential insights, tools, and practical knowledge you need to stay ahead.

Join us to:

  • Hear global and local economic updates and what they mean for New Zealand organisations
  • Understand the latest developments in tax, employment law, IFRS, technology and more
  • Explore ethical expectations and real-world dilemmas facing today’s accounting professionals
  • Strengthen your leadership, communication, resilience, and people-focused skills to elevate your impact as a finance leader

 

Why join One Stop?

  • Virtual and in-person learning opportunities
  • All-in-one opportunity to hear the latest updates for the accounting profession
  • Connect with like-minded accountants, keen to be at the top of their game
  • Gain up to 15 CPD points 
Asset 3CPD stamp yellow

CPD Hours

The CPD conference trusted by accountants and finance professionals for over 27 years.

Earn a majority of your annual verifiable CPD including ethics in our punchy, informative conference.

Venue - Wellington

Address:

James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
147 The Terrace, Wellington Central

 

Venue - Auckland

Address:

Four Points by Sheraton
396 Queen Street and
Main Reception Entrance:
110 Mayoral Drive, Auckland

Virtual Ticket Option on 21-22 May, 2026.

Attend One Stop online from the comfort of your office or at home.

On-demand content

Watch when your schedule allows: Every ticket includes on-demand access to presentations

Conference content will be available on-demand for 60 days.

Check out our other upcoming events

Agenda 2026

8:00

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

9:10

One Stop Update on the global macro-economic outlook and trade policies

  • Exploring the global economic outlook and its impact on New Zealand’s economic performance

  • Geopolitics and international relations – Trump, trade and tariffs: What will these mean for us

  • Discussing global inflation trends and their impact on New Zealand’s monetary policy

  • Global trade policy developments and New Zealand’s trade relationships

  • Examining global trends and challenges including sustainability, digital, supply chain resilience and logistics on New Zealand competitiveness

Stephen Jacobi, Managing Director, Jacobi Consulting

9:55

One Stop New Zealand Economic Update

  • Exploring the current state of New Zealand’s economy and business confidence

  • Predicting what we might see in 2026 – where are we heading next?

  • Discussing sectoral performance and their unique opportunities and challenges

  • Understanding the key sectors driving economic momentum and those facing challenges

  • Implications of the current economic situation for businesses

Tony Alexander, Economic Thought Leader

10:40

Morning break

11:10

The One Stop Ethics Update: Tax Planning, Sustainability, Use of Experts, Disciplinary Decisions and more

  • Understand the latest proposed updates to NZICA’s Code of Ethics and the outlook for future developments

  • Gain practical insight into ethical matters by exploring recent decisions from NZICA’s disciplinary bodies

Peter Vial, New Zealand Country Head, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand

11:50

Leading with impact: Essential leadership skills for accountants in business

  • How accountants are stepping up as strategic leaders shaping business decisions

  • Mastering communication and influence to drive impact across the organisation

  • Inspiring and leading teams to deliver exceptional performance

  • Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion for stronger, high performing teams

  • Leading with integrity and embedding ethics at the heart of every decision

  • Cultivating resilience for yourself and your team to thrive under pressure

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

12:30

Lunch

13:30

The One Stop Employment Law Update

  • Key changes in New Zealand employment law

  • Understanding changes regarding the high income threshold, unfair dismissal and recruiting highly paid roles

  • A practical overview of the upcoming Holidays Act reforms, outlining likely changes to leave entitlements and calculations

  • The costs of terminating employment – redundancy compensation, agreed exits, and unlawful dismissals

Emma von Veh, Partner, Buddle Findlay

14:10

Effective communication and influencing skills for Accountants

  • Communicating technical information and financial data clearly and concisely for your audience

  • Framing solutions and problem solving to support impactful outcomes

  • Leveraging smart data, reporting and partnerships to maximise business value

  • Practical tips for building influence at executive and board level

Debbie D'Souza, Financial Controller/FP&A Manager, Mars

15:00

Afternoon break

15:30

One Stop IFRS Update: Exploring global consistency and local flexibility

  • Exploring the vision of IFRS as a single global accounting and sustainability language

  • How jurisdictions, including New Zealand, adapt IFRS to local contexts

  • The role of the IASB, ISSB, and regulators in balancing alignment and flexibility

  • Practical strategies to maintain global credibility while ensuring local relevance

David Pacey, Partner, Grant Thornton

16:10

The One Stop C-Suite Interview: Making the Switch from Technical Expert to Strategic Leader

  • Work habits and practices that maximise individual and team effectiveness

  • Approaches to managing people issues, building culture, and resolving conflict

  • Practical strategies for interacting with the CEO and other executives to influence and collaborate effectively

  • Key learnings and lessons from the experiences that have made these CFOs successful

Stephen Morgan, General Manager - Finance and Commercial, Champion Flour Milling and 2025 NZ CFO of the Year

16:50

Summary remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

17:00

Day 1 close & networking drinks

8:00

Registration and Coffee

9:00

Welcoming remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

9:10

Startup Story: From Idea to Revenue – Lessons for Accounting & Finance Leaders

  • Hear practical lessons from building an idea into a profitable business, with insights for accountants supporting innovative clients

  • Financial lessons learned in managing cash flow, funding, and scaling operations

  • Challenges in compliance, reporting, and accounting in a startup environment

  • How accountants can add value and support business growth in early-stage companies

  • Practical takeaways for translating startup experiences into professional insights

Mike Mandis, Co-CEO, Oxygen

9:50

One Stop Tax Update

  • Key updates and emerging issues in income tax, employment tax, and GST

  • Inland Revenue’s current compliance activity and audit focus areas — and what these mean for organisations in 2026

  • Recent Inland Revenue statements and rulings and the practical implications for taxpayers

  • Looking ahead to the Government’s refreshed Tax Work Programme and Budget 2026 predictions in an election year

Alex Kingston, Partner, Deloitte

10:30

Morning break

11:00

AI in Accounting & Finance

  • Overview of AI technologies and their relevance to accounting and finance

  • How AI automates repetitive tasks and enables more strategic work

  • How AI is transforming financial reporting and analysis

  • How AI can streamline tax preparation and compliance

  • Practical guidance for implementing AI solutions and overcoming challenges

Nick Johnson, Senior Manager, KPMG

11:40

Case Study: Technology in Action—Solving Real Business Problems

  • The challenge - A real-world business problem that required a more efficient, scalable solution

  • The implementation - How innovative technology was selected, introduced, and integrated into existing workflows

  • Overcoming roadblocks - Common barriers such as resistance to change, data issues, or system compatibility and how they were addressed

  • Results & Lessons Learned - Measurable efficiencies gained, business impact, and practical tips for successfully adopting new technology

Hannah Howard, GM Finance & Commercial, Technology and AI, One New Zealand

12:20

Protecting Financial Data: Essential Cybersecurity Strategies for Accountants

  • Understanding current cybersecurity threats and emerging attack types such as ransomware and deepfakes highlighting cyber risk as a core business risk

  • Assessing AI use, supply-chain due diligence, data protection, insurance considerations, and the legal and financial consequences of cyber incidents

  • Strengthening people, processes, and leadership to reduce human risk and embed cyber security beyond a tick-box approach

Liz Knight, Head of Cyber Security, Theta

1:00

Lunch

14:00

Balanced Decisions: Aligning Risk, Audit, and Board Governance

  • Strengthening board capability through a clear understanding of risk management and assurance fundamentals

  • Practical approaches to lift board risk literacy, enabling more confident challenge, oversight and engagement

  • Defining and differentiating the role of risk and assurance functions in strategic oversight, governance and informed board decision‑making

  • Leveraging risk and assurance capability to support balanced, value‑focused decisions that protect and enhance organisational performance

Nigel Toms, GM Risk and Assurance, Watercare Services Limited

14:40

Building Resilience and Wellbeing for You and Your Finance Team

  • Strategies to enhance personal resilience and manage stress in a high-pressure finance environment

  • Promoting mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing within finance teams

  • Techniques to create a supportive, adaptable, and productive team culture

  • Practical approaches for leaders to foster resilience and wellbeing while maintaining performance

Julie Cressey, General Manager, TelusHealth

15:20

Summary remarks from the Chair

Scott Wright, Founder, The HI Company

15:30

Conference close

Speakers to be announced

Auckland Speakers

Speakers

Tonille Crombie

GM – Group Supply Chain and Procurement
Talley's Group Limited
Tonille Crombie has 20 years of executive level tenure across food manufacturing, dairy, export logistics, and cold chain operations. She has held CEO and General Manager roles at Hall’s Group and Open Country, leading large, complex, multi‑site export and domestic organisations through periods of growth, disruption, and transformation.  Tonille is currently General Manager Supply Chain and Procurement at Talley’s Group Limited.

Emma Parsons

Chief Executive Officer
Emma Parsons is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in the logistics, dairy, and business strategy sectors. Currently, Emma serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Kotahi Logistics LP in Auckland, New Zealand, a role held since December 2024. In addition, Emma holds part-time directorships at Pro Kinetics (Aust) Pty Ltd in Melbourne, Australia and at Coda Group, a position maintained since 2023. From 2023 to December 2024, Emma also served as a director for Global Dairy Trade. Previously, Emma was with Fonterra for many years, culminating in a position as Managing Director of Strategy and Optimisation. In this role, Emma played a pivotal role in the company’s strategic direction. Prior to this, Emma was the GM of Capital Strategy at Fonterra from 2020 to 2022. In terms of academic background, Emma holds an MBA with First Class Honours from Massey University (2016–2018) and completed the Te Hono Bootcamp at Stanford University Graduate School of Business in 2019.

Bryan Whitefield

Director and Author
Bryan Whitefield Consulting
Bryan Whitefield is a strategy and risk expert, who helps leaders navigate complexity, uncertainty, and high-stakes decision making. For more than 25 years. he has been helping boards and executive teams bring clarity to where it matters most – strategy and risk.  The mission is simple: Challenge leaders to think differently to help them and their organisations succeed – without regret. Whether through strategic planning sessions, strategic risk workshops or high-stakes reviews, he creates space for meaningful conversations that shape the future. Bryan’s experience as a risk practitioner includes the design and implementation of risk management programs for hundreds of organisations across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Bryan is the author of several books, including his latest book, Team Think: How Teams Make Great Decisions (Amazon Best Seller 2024), which empowers leaders with a profound understanding of team decision making and practical methodologies to boost productivity. He is also author of Risky Business: How Successful Organisations Embrace Uncertainty (Amazon Best Seller 2021), Persuasive Advising: How to Turn Red Tape into Blue Ribbon, and Bryan’s Blog Book: Years of Insights on Making Risk Stick (Amazon Best Seller 2023).

Traci Houpapa

Chair
Federation of Māori Authorities
Traci is an award winning company director and a recognised industry leader.  She is a trusted advisor to Maori, Government and industry on strategic and economic development, and is known for her strong and inclusive leadership and her clear focus on building the wealth and prosperity of New Zealand. A Chartered Fellow of the NZ Institute of Directors, Traci is named as one of the top ten most influential women in NZ agribusiness and the Listener’s top ten influencers in NZ.  She won the Westpac Fairfax Media Women of Influence Board and Management award and named on Westpac’s NZ Women Powerbrokers list.  Traci was awarded the Massey University Distinguished Alumni Service Award for services to NZ agribusiness and Maori, and named amongst the BBCs 100 Most Influential Women in the World. Traci is a Member of the NZ Order of Merit, a Justice of the Peace and a Marriage Celebrant. s

Doug Haines

Conference MC
Doug Haines is a Senior Project Manager at TSA Riley, based in Auckland, with experience across infrastructure, aviation, transport and property projects. His project work has included a strong focus on stakeholder engagement, governance and supporting teams through complex delivery environments.   Originally from the UK, Doug also has a background in working with young people and coaching, which has shaped his practical, people-focused approach to communication and facilitation.

Shane Phillips

General Manager | Projects NZ
TSA Riley
Shane Phillips is General Manager Projects for TSA Riley New Zealand, based in Auckland. He has more than 20 years’ experience across design and construction management on complex projects. Shane has led the design, procurement and construction of major developments including sports and leisure facilities delivered in Papua New Guinea, as well as significant aviation-sector projects at Auckland International Airport. In 2019, Shane was the recipient of TSA Riley’s SMART Prize for his thought leadership around aviation sustainable best practice.

Nathalie Jeeves-Edwards

Principal
Ōpaki School
Kia ora, I am Nat Jeeves-Edwards and I am Tumuaki / Principal at Ōpaki School in Masterton. I have been a principal for nearly three years and I also had the privilege of attending Ōpaki School as a child many moons ago. Prior to principalship, I was Deputy Principal/SENCo at Fergusson Intermediate (Upper Hutt), Assistant Principal/SENCo/Team Leader at Kaitao Intermediate (Rotorua) and have taught in various schools in London and also on the Āwhitu Peninsula in Auckland.

Katie Watson

Squad Engagement Lead | Psychosocial Recovery and Wellbeing Specialist
Revolutionaries of Wellbeing
I’m a Psychosocial Recovery and Wellbeing Specialist and the Squad Engagement Lead at ROW. My background is in Community Engagement, most recently leading Psychosocial Recovery for the Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Office. I’m at a really energising point in my career, building on my experiences in disaster recovery and turning my focus toward psychosocial risk and wellbeing in the workplace. I’m fascinated by how we can bring risk language and the human side of wellbeing together to create better, healthier, more rewarding workplaces for everyone. I live in a beautiful community in West Auckland with my husband, three of our four children, two cats, and five chickens. Outside of work, I’m writing a book with my best friend and eagerly looking forward to our next writers’ retreat.

Paul Robertson

Partner
Heaney & Partners

Hannah Tevita

Senior Associate
Buddle Findlay
Hanna is a member of the Wellington employment, health and litigation teams.  She specialises in employment law and regularly advises on matters relating to personal grievances, disciplinary processes, health and safety, organisational change and restructure processes, parental law, privacy and education law.  Hanna has a particular interest in medical incapacity and mental health in the workplace. Hanna has extensive experience in both the private and public sectors and has acted for some of New Zealand’s largest private sector organisations.  Hanna has experience in dispute resolution and mediation and has appeared before the Employment Relations Authority and the Employment Court.

Louise Robertson

Senior Associate
Buddle Findlay
Louise is a lawyer in the Wellington litigation team, specialising in employment.  She partners with a range of clients, including within the education sector, to provide advisory, dispute resolution and litigation support.  As well as assisting with employment documentation, processes and claims, she regularly engages with other related areas such as privacy, official information, discrimination and professional regulation. Louise is passionate about the ways in which the law and society shape each other and touch on our everyday lives.  She aims always in her practice to navigate through difficult issues with kindness and compassion.

Hannah Howard

GM Finance & Commercial, Technology & AI
One New Zealand
Hannah Howard is General Manager of Commercial & Finance for Technology, Data & AI at One NZ. Her team works across the company’s technology landscape to support sound investment decisions, network monetisation, and cost optimisation, bringing a commercial lens to some of the business’s most complex and fast-moving areas. Hannah is also at the forefront of practical AI adoption within finance, with her team leading initiatives that use AI to assess the accounting treatment of large-scale SaaS implementation programmes and to streamline business case development through automation. Her work is focused on turning AI strategy into practical, scalable business value.

Wellington Speakers

Tonille Crombie

GM – Group Supply Chain and Procurement
Talley's Group Limited
Tonille Crombie has 20 years of executive level tenure across food manufacturing, dairy, export logistics, and cold chain operations. She has held CEO and General Manager roles at Hall’s Group and Open Country, leading large, complex, multi‑site export and domestic organisations through periods of growth, disruption, and transformation.  Tonille is currently General Manager Supply Chain and Procurement at Talley’s Group Limited.

Emma Parsons

Chief Executive Officer
Emma Parsons is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in the logistics, dairy, and business strategy sectors. Currently, Emma serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Kotahi Logistics LP in Auckland, New Zealand, a role held since December 2024. In addition, Emma holds part-time directorships at Pro Kinetics (Aust) Pty Ltd in Melbourne, Australia and at Coda Group, a position maintained since 2023. From 2023 to December 2024, Emma also served as a director for Global Dairy Trade. Previously, Emma was with Fonterra for many years, culminating in a position as Managing Director of Strategy and Optimisation. In this role, Emma played a pivotal role in the company’s strategic direction. Prior to this, Emma was the GM of Capital Strategy at Fonterra from 2020 to 2022. In terms of academic background, Emma holds an MBA with First Class Honours from Massey University (2016–2018) and completed the Te Hono Bootcamp at Stanford University Graduate School of Business in 2019.

Bryan Whitefield

Director and Author
Bryan Whitefield Consulting
Bryan Whitefield is a strategy and risk expert, who helps leaders navigate complexity, uncertainty, and high-stakes decision making. For more than 25 years. he has been helping boards and executive teams bring clarity to where it matters most – strategy and risk.  The mission is simple: Challenge leaders to think differently to help them and their organisations succeed – without regret. Whether through strategic planning sessions, strategic risk workshops or high-stakes reviews, he creates space for meaningful conversations that shape the future. Bryan’s experience as a risk practitioner includes the design and implementation of risk management programs for hundreds of organisations across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Bryan is the author of several books, including his latest book, Team Think: How Teams Make Great Decisions (Amazon Best Seller 2024), which empowers leaders with a profound understanding of team decision making and practical methodologies to boost productivity. He is also author of Risky Business: How Successful Organisations Embrace Uncertainty (Amazon Best Seller 2021), Persuasive Advising: How to Turn Red Tape into Blue Ribbon, and Bryan’s Blog Book: Years of Insights on Making Risk Stick (Amazon Best Seller 2023).

Traci Houpapa

Chair
Federation of Māori Authorities
Traci is an award winning company director and a recognised industry leader.  She is a trusted advisor to Maori, Government and industry on strategic and economic development, and is known for her strong and inclusive leadership and her clear focus on building the wealth and prosperity of New Zealand. A Chartered Fellow of the NZ Institute of Directors, Traci is named as one of the top ten most influential women in NZ agribusiness and the Listener’s top ten influencers in NZ.  She won the Westpac Fairfax Media Women of Influence Board and Management award and named on Westpac’s NZ Women Powerbrokers list.  Traci was awarded the Massey University Distinguished Alumni Service Award for services to NZ agribusiness and Maori, and named amongst the BBCs 100 Most Influential Women in the World. Traci is a Member of the NZ Order of Merit, a Justice of the Peace and a Marriage Celebrant. s

Doug Haines

Conference MC
Doug Haines is a Senior Project Manager at TSA Riley, based in Auckland, with experience across infrastructure, aviation, transport and property projects. His project work has included a strong focus on stakeholder engagement, governance and supporting teams through complex delivery environments.   Originally from the UK, Doug also has a background in working with young people and coaching, which has shaped his practical, people-focused approach to communication and facilitation.

Shane Phillips

General Manager | Projects NZ
TSA Riley
Shane Phillips is General Manager Projects for TSA Riley New Zealand, based in Auckland. He has more than 20 years’ experience across design and construction management on complex projects. Shane has led the design, procurement and construction of major developments including sports and leisure facilities delivered in Papua New Guinea, as well as significant aviation-sector projects at Auckland International Airport. In 2019, Shane was the recipient of TSA Riley’s SMART Prize for his thought leadership around aviation sustainable best practice.

Nathalie Jeeves-Edwards

Principal
Ōpaki School
Kia ora, I am Nat Jeeves-Edwards and I am Tumuaki / Principal at Ōpaki School in Masterton. I have been a principal for nearly three years and I also had the privilege of attending Ōpaki School as a child many moons ago. Prior to principalship, I was Deputy Principal/SENCo at Fergusson Intermediate (Upper Hutt), Assistant Principal/SENCo/Team Leader at Kaitao Intermediate (Rotorua) and have taught in various schools in London and also on the Āwhitu Peninsula in Auckland.

Katie Watson

Squad Engagement Lead | Psychosocial Recovery and Wellbeing Specialist
Revolutionaries of Wellbeing
I’m a Psychosocial Recovery and Wellbeing Specialist and the Squad Engagement Lead at ROW. My background is in Community Engagement, most recently leading Psychosocial Recovery for the Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Office. I’m at a really energising point in my career, building on my experiences in disaster recovery and turning my focus toward psychosocial risk and wellbeing in the workplace. I’m fascinated by how we can bring risk language and the human side of wellbeing together to create better, healthier, more rewarding workplaces for everyone. I live in a beautiful community in West Auckland with my husband, three of our four children, two cats, and five chickens. Outside of work, I’m writing a book with my best friend and eagerly looking forward to our next writers’ retreat.

Paul Robertson

Partner
Heaney & Partners

Hannah Tevita

Senior Associate
Buddle Findlay
Hanna is a member of the Wellington employment, health and litigation teams.  She specialises in employment law and regularly advises on matters relating to personal grievances, disciplinary processes, health and safety, organisational change and restructure processes, parental law, privacy and education law.  Hanna has a particular interest in medical incapacity and mental health in the workplace. Hanna has extensive experience in both the private and public sectors and has acted for some of New Zealand’s largest private sector organisations.  Hanna has experience in dispute resolution and mediation and has appeared before the Employment Relations Authority and the Employment Court.

Louise Robertson

Senior Associate
Buddle Findlay
Louise is a lawyer in the Wellington litigation team, specialising in employment.  She partners with a range of clients, including within the education sector, to provide advisory, dispute resolution and litigation support.  As well as assisting with employment documentation, processes and claims, she regularly engages with other related areas such as privacy, official information, discrimination and professional regulation. Louise is passionate about the ways in which the law and society shape each other and touch on our everyday lives.  She aims always in her practice to navigate through difficult issues with kindness and compassion.

Hannah Howard

GM Finance & Commercial, Technology & AI
One New Zealand
Hannah Howard is General Manager of Commercial & Finance for Technology, Data & AI at One NZ. Her team works across the company’s technology landscape to support sound investment decisions, network monetisation, and cost optimisation, bringing a commercial lens to some of the business’s most complex and fast-moving areas. Hannah is also at the forefront of practical AI adoption within finance, with her team leading initiatives that use AI to assess the accounting treatment of large-scale SaaS implementation programmes and to streamline business case development through automation. Her work is focused on turning AI strategy into practical, scalable business value.

Sponsorship

Don't miss out on the connections and credibility boost!

Live B2B events are your chance to shine. Showcase your thought leadership, solidify your market position, and forge valuable connections with potential customers – all at once.

This exclusive event puts you in front of a highly skilled audience hungry for insights. Get ready for meaningful engagement that drives results.

Plus, we have some unique opportunities to put your company, products, and services in the spotlight.

Ready to take your brand to the next level? Contact us today to learn more or secure your spot at this leading event.

Choose where you will get your CPD hours from

Wellington Tickets (12-13 May)

PRE SALE

$2499
$ 1699 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 30 January, 2026.

SUPER SAVER

$2499
$ 1999 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 27 March, 2026.

Group 3+

$2499
$ 1699 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 12 May, 2026.

Auckland Tickets (20-21 May)

PRE SALE

$2499
$ 1699 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 30 January, 2026.

SUPER SAVER

$2499
$ 1999 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 27 March, 2026.

Group 3+

$2499
$ 1699 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 20 May, 2026.

Virtual Tickets (20-21 May)

EARLY BIRD

$2199
$ 1999 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 17 April, 2026.

SUPER SAVER

$2199
$ 1799 +gst
  • For valid ticket, register by 27 March, 2026.

Group 3+

$2199
$ 1599 per person +gst
  • Must be from same organisation and book at the same time. For valid tickets, register by 20 May, 2026.

Registration Conditions

Ticket Terms
All prices are in New Zealand dollars ($NZD)
A surcharge of 2.5% + GST applies to credit card payments on top of the total amount.
Pre-Sale Tickets are valid only for the specific event for which they were purchased and cannot be transferred to other events. To remain valid, Super Saver and Early Bird tickets must be paid by date quoted.
Group ticket options are valid for registrations from the same organisation, booked at the same time.
By selecting any special pricing offer for classes of organisation, sector, or individuals or using any promotion code, you are asserting to the organiser your right to claim any such pricing offer, and acknowledge the organiser’s right to audit such claim and, if in the opinion of the organiser using its sole discretion the conditions for special pricing are not met, reject any registration.

For full terms & conditions, please visit https://www.brightstar.co.nz/terms-and-conditions

Check out our other upcoming events

Make an enquiry

Ask us a question or register your interest

General Contact

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
This field is hidden when viewing the form