The Energy Management Association of New Zealand (EMANZ) today announced who will take over the reins from outgoing Executive Officer Ewan Gebbie.

After a thorough search and selection process, Dr Mike Hopkins has been appointed to the role.

Mike is a dual (NZ and UK) citizen whose background is in consulting. Before moving to New Zealand, he worked extensively in the energy sector in the UK, delivering advocacy and public relations guidance to organisations such as the British Wind Energy Association, The Electricity Pool (the clearing market) and Innogy, a European based sustainable energy venture capital fund.

Mike has also worked on market research and product development projects in the energy industry and on branding projects with the Engineering Council.

After seven years as Executive Officer, Ewan Gebbie has chosen to stand down and let someone else take EMANZ forward.

“The organisation is in great health, and there is no better time for the organisation to go through a transition such as this” Ewan Gebbie said. “I can thinking of no better person to take on the role.

Mike’s previous energy sector involvement, business background and PhD in Finance make him perfectly qualified and experienced”.

EMANZ Chair Scott Noyes added “The Board is thrilled to have such a high calibre individual to take over the great work Ewan has done to broaden EMANZ’s influence in the energy services sector. Mike’s strengths in marketing, advocacy and financial acumen will position EMANZ to serve its members well in a market poised for growth and opportunity”.

Mike Hopkins also commented “Ewan is leaving a huge pair of shoes to fill. He's done a great job over the years and I'll be continuing that work as well as bringing my own ideas to growing EMANZ. With a progressive Board steering EMANZ, the future looks bright and I'm looking forward to playing my part in delivering it."

Mike will be returning to New Zealand from Sydney to take up the role, where he has spent the last few years in the university sector. He will be on board full-time in early July and will be attending the EMANZ annual conference on 17-18 May in Auckland. Ewan will continue to work with

EMANZ to manage business continuity and to assist Mike as he settles in.

This media release was sourced directly from Scoop Independent News.