New board appointments for Regional Facilities Auckland and ATEED

The Mayor welcomes the appointment of Lisa Bates to the board of Regional Facilities Auckland (RFA) and Andrew Higgs to the board of Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED).

“Lisa brings a vast wealth of knowledge and experience to this role that will be greatly valued. Lisa has a strong arts and culture background and has experience in media and fundraising,” says Mayor Len Brown.

Ms Bates’s social and media knowledge was honed during time working as producer on Shortland Street and as development director and major fundraiser for Q Theatre. The Chair of RFA, Sir Don McKinnon, adds: “Lisa’s ability to work with diverse people, her pragmatism, energy and ability to make initiatives happen will greatly complement those skills already present on the board.”

“Andrew Higgs brings with him a wealth of experience having spent much of his life living and working offshore, including several years in London as an Executive Director of MTV Networks Europe,” says Len Brown.

Since returning to New Zealand in 2005, Andrew has driven growth at Parex Industries, which distributes innovative and practical appliance products, and was recognised for its marketing excellence at the ATEED-facilitated 2011 Westpac Auckland West Business Awards.

Mr Higgs has also been involved in creating the popular Piha Café and remains an active contributor to a broad range of business and community initiatives. “His commitment, smart thinking and willingness to put ideas forward in a persuasive manner will be particularly valued around the board table,” says ATEED Board Chair, David McConnell.

Auckland Council’s CCO Strategy Review Subcommittee is responsible for all board appointments to substantive CCOs and Watercare.