Lisa Davis
Chief Executive Office
Auckland,Auckland
Summary
Experienced CEO with a robust foundation in strategic leadership and community development, dedicated over a decade to enhancing organisational identity, culture, and stakeholder well-being. My background in the Māori development sector has sharpened my abilities to drive meaningful change, achieve strategic objectives, and promote community engagement.
Known for a passion for building strong partnerships, nurturing a team-oriented culture, and guiding innovative projects. My leadership approach is marked by a steadfast commitment to growth within and across the organisation. Focused on creating a lasting impact, consistently leveraging expertise and insights to lead and inspire in diverse organisational settings, aiming for sustainable success for future generations.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Language
Work History
Chief Executive Officer
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
Auckland, AUK
12.2021 - Current
- Successfully built strong working relationships across the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei group, leading to the establishment of the first shared group role in the Trust and progressing towards unified finance and HR functions.
- Enhanced collaboration and alignment through initiatives like monthly CEO breakfasts and the transition of Marae operations to a unified system, significantly improving operational and financial processes.
- Prioritised engagement with external stakeholders, establishing key partnerships with organisations like Tāmaki Regeneration, Emerge Aotearoa and Aktive.
- Secured substantial funding from Foundation North to support long-term strategic objectives.
- Played a central role in Te Matatini at Eden Park, significantly enhancing the visibility of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and effectively managed the Trust’s participation in the event, exceeding expectations and delivering below budget.
- Lead key initiatives, including the Group Structure Review, development of the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Sports and Recreation Centre, and the Te Puru o Tamaki strategy, aligning them with the organisation's strategic direction and long-term goals.
- Demonstrated high proficiency in empathy/EQ, relationship management, and project management, significantly contributing to the effective leadership of the organisation.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust
Auckland, AUK
06.2021 - 12.2021
- Successfully led Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei to deliver 80% of the Annual Plan objectives, adeptly managing changes in scope and realigning deliverables to adapt to evolving circumstances, demonstrating flexibility and strategic response to challenges.
- Took a lead operational role in Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This involved implementing new processes for kai delivery, conducting daily stand-ups to coordinate transport, whānau engagement, food delivery, and health services, and ensuring quick and effective responses to emerging issues.
- Oversaw the distribution of over 400 food packs weekly and assisted in facilitating the opening of all MIQ centres in Auckland during the pandemic. These initiatives supported the community’s well-being and cultural engagement during challenging times.
- Provided strategic oversight of marketing and promotional campaigns to keep campaigns aligned with overall goals and objectives.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions to meet the needs of our Whānau.
- Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
Special Projects Manager
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
Auckland, AUK
01.2020 - 06.2021
- Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
- Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks.
- Provided detailed project status updates to stakeholders and executive management.
- Developed and initiated projects, managed costs, and monitored performance.
General Manager - Tourism and Events
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei - Whai Maia
Auckland, AUK
11.2015 - 11.2017
- Maximised efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Introduced new methods, practices, and systems to reduce turnaround time.
- Led weekly meetings with executive leadership to identify opportunities for improvement, establish milestones, and product development.
- Developed initial sales roadmaps and market strategies to promote successful product launches.
Education
Post Graduate Certificate - Human Potential in The Digital Economy
Tech Futures Lab
Auckland, New Zealand 04.2001 -
Diploma - Event Management
Auckland University of Technology
Auckland, New Zealand 04.2001 -
Bachelor of Māori Development - Business
Auckland University of Technology
Auckland, New Zealand 04.2001 -
Skills
Change Management
Organisational Management
Project and Event Management
Strategic Planning
Partnerships
Financial Management
Business and Process Improvements
Te Reo me ona Tikanga
Advancing Outcomes
Executive Leadership
Building Organisational Culture
Timeline
Chief Executive Officer
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
12.2021 - Current
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust
06.2021 - 12.2021
Special Projects Manager
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
01.2020 - 06.2021
General Manager - Tourism and Events
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei - Whai Maia
11.2015 - 11.2017
Post Graduate Certificate - Human Potential in The Digital Economy
Tech Futures Lab
04.2001 -
Diploma - Event Management
Auckland University of Technology
04.2001 -
Bachelor of Māori Development - Business
Auckland University of Technology
04.2001 -