Who is the Team?

Patrick McKibbin

CEO

Patrick joined the team in September 2021.  He is an experienced leader that creates, facilitates and delivers innovative and practical strategy and ideas delivering positive results for individuals, teams, business, customers, agencies, and partner organisations. Patrick’s passion is identifying and connecting information and conversations to opportunities that deliver effective outcomes for all. He empowers and mentors people to succeed as individuals and as part of a team, delivering positive outcomes for personal and business.

Patrick is passionate about customer centric design thinking in all aspects of business and his skills and experience allow him to deliver outcomes that make a difference to organisations, their customers, and their people. As a leader he works towards creating a culture that is dedicated to customers, team, learning, communication, collaboration, and results, allowing individual and business growth while having fun along the journey.

To get in touch with Patrick email patrick @ hvchamber.org.nz. He would love to hear from you.

Megan Kibblewhite

Membership and Events Coordinator

Megan began her career in the bustling hotel industry before quickly transitioning to the dynamic field of event management. Her journey has taken her through various roles, from managing large-scale events at prestigious venues like the Amora Hotel to organising large international conferences at companies such as Conference Innovators. Her professional canvas also extends to the non-profit sector, underlining her versatility and commitment to impact.

For several years, Megan embraced change and exploration, moving between Broome, Western Australia, and Wellington. This period not only honed her adaptability but also expanded her perspectives, traits she carries forward into her professional life.

Now settled in Wellington, Megan has joined the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce. Here, she brings her wealth of experience, adaptability, and passion for community engagement.

The Chamber is delighted to have her on board and eagerly anticipates the dynamism she brings to our mission. You can contact Megan directly by emailing megan @ hvchamber.org.nz.

Olivia Townshend

Digital Marketing Coordinator | Communications Coordinator | Marketing and Communications Coordinator in Wellington

Olivia is the Marketing and Communications Coordinator for the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Olivia holds a degree with a major in Marketing, specifically digital marketing and Management, with a minor in Commercial Law. Before joining the Chamber, Olivia tutored Digital Marketing at Victoria University and honed her practical skills at a leading marketing agency. These experiences have equipped her with a deep understanding of the digital marketing landscape and a knack for strategising and executing effective campaigns.

Originally from Hawkes Bay, Olivia moved to Wellington to pursue her degree and subsequently made Hutt Valley her home. She is deeply passionate about making positive change and harnessing the power of marketing to drive meaningful improvements.

In her current role, Olivia is eager to apply her knowledge and passion to help local businesses thrive. She is excited to support the Chamber’s members, the business community, and the wider community. You can contact Olivia directly by emailing olivia @ hvchamber.org.nz.

Hera Whaanga

Education to Employment Advisor

Hera Whaanga (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, Rongomaiwahine) is the Education to Employment Advisor at the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce. Hera brings a strong commitment to her role, emphasising the importance of working collaboratively with our Rangatahi and community.

In her previous position, Hera made significant contributions within an Alliance implementing workforce development programmes across the Civils and Infrastructure sectors. She brings a wealth of experience with a background in People Operations and Programme Management this has gifted her with a keen understanding of the industry and the ability to forge effective collaborations with secondary schools, professionals, and businesses alike. This collaborative approach is key to developing initiatives that provide real-world opportunities and showcasing a variety of career pathways for our Rangatahi (youth), ensuring they are prepared to transition seamlessly from school into the workforce.

In addition to her professional capabilities, Hera’s dedication to our community extends beyond her role at the Chamber. Her involvement in local sports and community events underscores her commitment to the Hutt Valley, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

At the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, we are excited about the wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm Hera brings to her position. Her work is vital in empowering our Rangatahi, supporting their journey from education to employment, and ultimately strengthening the fabric of our community. To get in touch with Hera, you can email her at hera @ hvchamber.org.nz

Fiona Mawley

Finance and Project Management

Fiona has joined the HVCC team to support the delivery of the objectives of the Chamber’s COVID-19 Recovery and Support programme to the local business community. Fiona will ensure that our accounting processes are efficient and on target with our current and future strategic plans and objectives. Her role is to provide day to day care for Chamber Members, non-members, Partners and Stakeholders, while providing excellent value to all members.

Fiona is Hawke’s Bay born and bred and is now a “big city” girl who brings with her a wealth of knowledge from governance to manufacturing and production. She looks forward to engaging with Hutt Valley Chamber Members and Partners and supporting Helen and the team. You can contact Fiona directly by emailing fiona @ hvchamber.org.nz.

Annette Wasson

Events & Training Coordinator

As Events and Training Coordinator, Annette manages the delivery of the Chamber’s events and business training workshops. Annette also works closely with our Members and Partners to deliver services and run events.

Annette has worked in hospitality and events in Wellington and overseas for a number of years. Passionate about customer service and guest experience and with extensive experience in event coordination and event delivery, Annette thrives on organising and running successful events.