Chief Executive

As Chief Executive for The Aotearoa Circle, Vicki is helping drive systems level change to restore nature and ensure enduring prosperity in Aotearoa for future generations.

Vicki has private sector experience spanning three decades that focuses on building organisations from scratch, forming and executing strategies, creating structures and workplace cultures that last, reaching ambitious funding or revenue goals, coordinating large scale events, and collaborating with leaders to achieve positive outcomes for our communities and Aotearoa.

This work has cut across a wide range of organisations doing good work for New Zealand, including but not limited to the Sir Peter Blake Trust, NZEA, the New Zealand Leadership Institute and in her current role at The Aotearoa Circle.

As a parent of two young adults, Vicki is driven to create a better world for them and their peers, and finds inspiration by getting out into nature, whether it be runs through Tāmaki Makaurau or walks through the South Island, mainly Arrowtown, where she is reminded of what we are all working to protect.

Mark is a sustainability, biodiversity and environmental leader with nearly 20 years' experience, specialising in the nature sector, and a proven track record in delivering strategic initiatives across private and public sectors. His career started in marine science primary research, moving into environmental impact assessment for mining, coal seam gas, deepwater oil and gas, fisheries and farming. His leadership roles included the development and growth of Ravensdown's environmental consulting arm before moving to DOC where he held multiple senior manager and director roles in biodiversity science and partnerships.

Mark's passion is supporting the mobilisation and collaboration of effort, along with appropriate investment of sustainable funding into climate and nature related programs of work. His role at the Circle is focussed on the implementation of our work programs.

Jo is a senior communications leader with extensive experience across economically critical sectors for Aotearoa including primary industries, tourism, FMCG, government and media.

A former journalist, Jo has held senior communications and marketing roles for well-known brands and businesses, as well as major public relations consultancies in both the UK and New Zealand.

As Director of Communications for The Aotearoa Circle, Jo is responsible for driving meaningful change through strategic communications that support our mission to restore Aotearoa’s natural capital.

A sixth-generation New Zealander, Jo has lived across Te Ika-a-Māui. She finds rejuvenation in our native bush and lakes and is proud to support The Circle, our Guardians and Partners in the restoration of New Zealand’s natural resources and taonga, alongside sustainable prosperity for Aotearoa New Zealand.

Executive Assistant

I joined the Circle as Executive Assistant in 2023.  I help keep things running smoothly, whether it's managing schedules, coordinating meetings, or organising events.  

I love working on the Circle’s events and bringing people together, making sure everything goes off without a hitch. My role also involves supporting the team with our work focus areas and taking care of Partner needs and whatever comes up day to day. 

Outside of work, I spend time sailing, whenever I get the chance, on the potter’s wheel, and cooking meals for family and friends. There's nothing better than gathering around good food with good company! 

Project Coordinator

Jess is Project Coordinator at The Aotearoa Circle, a where she plays a crucial role supporting our Chief Executive and Directors of Implementation in managing various administrative and logistical aspects of our workstreams. Within our small team, Jess takes on multiple responsibilities, including event planning, graphic design, accounts administration, project support, HR assistance, IT support, and executive assistance when needed.

Prior to joining The Aotearoa Circle, Jess thrived as an EA in fast-paced and creative studio environments. This background has equipped her with the ability to think on her feet and adapt quickly to change. She loves being part of The Circle kaupapa, recognising its critical role in preserving Aotearoa for future generations.