13 March 2019 at 9:00 am

ENZ farewells Charles Finny

Charles Finny has officially stepped down as Chair of the ENZ Board, marked by a farewell function at ENZ last week celebrating his seven-and-a-half years in his role.

Charles picture Ipu
Charles Finny and Grant McPherson

Charles was appointed in 2011 when ENZ was first established and has led the organisation through a period of extraordinary change and growth. 

Under Charles watch, ENZ reached the international education sector’s then target of $5 billion value seven years early. He chaired ENZ through three ministers, three Prime Ministers, two governments, and three Secretaries of Education. He approved 28 Quarterly Reports and seven Annual Reports, appeared at five Select Committee hearings and governed with 14 Board members. 

Charles has led both ENZ and the wider community through a considerable change in attitude and understanding of the broader value of international education, said ENZ Chief Executive Grant McPherson, who added that he had met with Charles pretty much every week for 7 years.” 

For many leaders the aim is to leave an organisation in better shape than when they arrived. I'd say, Job very well done.”  

Charles was presented with a Māripi, a traditional, elaborately carved Māori cutting instrument made of wood, as an acknowledgement of ENZrespect, appreciation and gratitude.   

Steve Maharey took up the role of ENZ Chair on 1 March. His appointment is for three years. 

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