Musings of a Foundation Member

Musings of a Foundation Member

Blog  Latest News
2022-05-19 0 comments

I was there at the start, am still here and hope to continue to be here for a little while yet. 

My involvement in TNG actually pre-dates the 10-year anniversary period when it was known at Tradesmen Networking Group. It coincided with me niching my coaching business in the trades space and was a natural fit to add into my marketing activities. 

There were just two groups running at the time and I think it had expanded to three when Mark purchased it from the existing owners, around 2012. With new ownership came new energy and drive. It was re-branded Trades Networking Group (later The Networking Group) and the focus spread from being very trades-centric to trades and associated professional businesses.

The rest is history, as they say. It has been great to see the network expand to the number and geographic spread that it has and is testament to the energy and drive of Mark, Melanie and their team. Also to the team of Area Group Managers who continue to deliver the mission. It’s not easy get the balance right between having a friendly get together coffee group and a structured, business-focussed meeting. The TNG model attempts to do that and constant adjustment is required to keep it swimming down its lane and not get tangled in the float lines.

Here’s to the next 10 years.

Andy Burrows

The Trades Coach
09-912 1901  027-688 6721
Web: www.tradescoach.co.nz 
National Partner – New Zealand Certified Builders Association

Free Guide: https://www.tradescoach.co.nz/download-brochure/ 

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Hannah Horner

Area Group Manager

0210 262 0244
Email: [email protected]

Bio

"Hannah has been self employed for the last 15 years owning her own businesses, so understands the struggles that small business owners face. She has a passion for connecting the right people together, and helping with small business growth.

Currently Hannah owns, and manages, Rapid Exposure Social Media Management & Coaching, and also Laser Plumbing in Kerikeri.

Hannah has a passion for making small improvements in the mental health space, specifically around awareness and suicide prevention, and has made it a focus this year to bring access into the local community by starting wellness events / seminars.

Hannah is an extroverted person, trapped in solo and sometimes lonely jobs. TNG helped enormously by connecting her with like-minded individuals and says "I've found my tribe thanks to TNG. When the opportunity came along to move into the AGM position, it naturally fit with my work ethic of growth and striving to succeed and so, I take on the challenge of growing the Northland networking scene further.

When Hannah isn't working, you'll find her running around after her 3 teenage girls."

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Tom Steward

Area Group Manager

021 772 001

Bio

"I am the co-director of Trigger Digital a tight-knit team of seasoned web professionals working within the SME and NFP digital marketing space.

I enjoy cutting through the 'smoke and mirrors" and jargon and approaching each client with a simplified, effective and caring plan to make things a little easier and business a little more effective."

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Arsh Kaur

Area Group Manager

Email: [email protected]
021 1173175

Bio

"Arsh is a woman of diverse experiences and has called Rotorua home for seven years, excelling in roles from management to engineering. As an ambitious entrepreneur with her commercial cleaning business, Arsh channels her experience to bring a fresh perspective and attention to detail in the real estate sector, ensuring clients find their ideal homes.
Fluent in English, Punjabi, and Hindi, plus learning Te Reo Māori, Arsh is about connecting with clients from all backgrounds. Arsh, a dynamic individual, is driven by growth and is committed to personalised service."

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Elaine Tourangi

Area Group Manager

Email: [email protected]
027 6347022

Bio

"When entrusting an agent to represent them, sellers are placing significant responsibility in their hands. Elaine Tourangi not only acknowledges this responsibility but embodies it daily while representing property sellers in your area.
Elaine's reputation is built on principles of customer care,
meticulous attention to detail, and achieving three crucial seller objectives: securing a top market result, achieving a sale within a reasonable timeframe, and ensuring an exceptional and rewarding real estate experience for every client.
To attain great selling results, an agent needs robust systems and support to manage every detail effectively. The pinnacle of selling success is reached by adhering to a proven formula.

Here are key points about Elaine Tourangi's approach:

  • Proudly aligned with Arizto Limited, a reputable NZ company.
  • A digital full-service agency with a fixed fee of 2% +GST for successfully selling a property.
  • All documentation is handled online, ensuring efficiency and ease of interaction.

Being a fully digital agency allows Elaine to dedicate more time to working for her sellers. Remember, hope is not a strategy, and luck is not a factor – choose Elaine Tourangi for a reliable and strategic real estate experience."

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John Mostert

Area Group Manager

With more than 20 year’s experience in the IT industry, I have dealt with many different people and various types of businesses and although most people might consider us nerds as robots, I have learned to love and value the relationships with people above all else. It’s in my interest to build a close working relationships with all our clients and enabling me to understand the customer’s needs and expectations. Providing them with a One Stop Shop for all their IT requirements. Having a platform like TNG to build those relationships through regular networking has been key to my success and I firmly believe it is essential for all businesses to be part of such a group.

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Kim White

Area Group Manager

Employsure
Email: [email protected]
021 2466658

Bio

"I’m a person that has always loved encouraging people, connecting them and helping them to grow. From sports coach to business mentor - corporate, not for profit and small business owner. Back in the BoP after 13 years away. I Love the water, sea kayaking and fishing in this beautiful place."

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Kristin Syms

Area Group Manager

Kristin has over 15 years in the insurance industry which includes working for an insurance company, admin for insurance advisers and being an insurance adviser herself. She grew up in Dargaville and over the years has expanded her connections across Northland.

As a dedicated Life and Health Insurance Adviser, Kristin is passionately committed to helping individuals and families secure their financial futures and protect their wellbeing, ensuring they make informed decisions that align with their unique needs and goals. She regularly engages in continuous education to stay up to date on an ever-evolving industry.

Contact Kristin to enquire about the following types of insurance:

Life

. Health

. Trauma / Critical Illness

. Income / Mortgage Protection

. Total & Permanent Disability

. Group Schemes

. Key Person / Shareholder Protection

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Randy Offenbaker

Area Group Manager

Randy owns the licence of Maintain To Profit Tauranga. Randy started his working career in the bakery industry working his way through to management roles. Working in the bakery industry for 16 years, he realized he was ready for a new challenge, this was presented to him in 2001 with work in the building industry as a Hammer hand. Following his time on the tools, he then found himself working in supervisory roles through to management and project management roles.

Randy is very passionate when it comes to renovating he believes in great communication with both client and contractors, resulting in an outstanding services and quality workmanship.

A Volunteer Fire Fighter since 2001, he enjoys the challenges of the job and find helping his community very rewarding. He has two adult girls and a wonderful supportive partner Tracey and her two children. He enjoys working around the garden, being creative, playing golf and enjoys time spent with his family and friends.

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Malcolm Jensen

Area Group Manager

I am an experienced S.M.E business owner, having owned, operated, managed and divided a number of businesses in the financial services, building services, construction, trades maintenance and meat exporting.

Specialties:

. Human resources
. Marketing and sales
. Financial management and reporting system
. Change management

I offer:

. Governance
. Business re-organisation
. Business planning-strategic
. Manufacturing & sales planning
. Goal setting
. Recruitment, reflection and development
. Programme management
. Staff engagement
. Leadership development

Success strategies to work by:
My aim is to help business owners be the best they can be.
'If you continue to do what you have always done, you will get what you've always got.' Changing my clients poor or non purposeful habits is what I find most rewarding.

The creation of a network of high quality specialist support advisers, along with the continued commitment to and actioning of learning opportunities.

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Jenny Aitken

Area Group Manager

BIO: I am a mortgage broker/adviser based in Auckland. Providing advice and helping you through the process of getting a mortgage, giving insight on your mortgage structure, and accessing the best rates is what I do, whether you are buying a home for the first time, looking at refinancing, or want to purchase a second (or third, or fourth…) property.

I have access to all types of lending. As well as first home buyers and investors, I help owners get money for renovations, debt consolidation, land purchase so you can build your own home, and also 'asset loans' - for when you have the security, but not the income.

Although the majority of my client base is on the North Shore of Auckland, I have mortgage clients nation wide.

I started my working life at Westpac, travelled overseas, and studied for a BA in media. In 2008 I established my own business HUE, and in 2011 it was named in the Deloitte's Fast 50 (as it was then). I was also named Entrepreneur of the Year in the Kitomba Business Awards. Once I sold up, I moved back to finance in 2013, and established JAM in 2016.

​I get what it’s like to want to buy your own place - but not know how to start the process (when I bought my first home, I had no idea!). I also know how to break down the process of buying an investment and making sure you have the correct structure in your borrowing to maximise your opportunities: be that tax, interest or convenience.

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Anil Dumasia

Area Group Manager

I am a designer with extensive NZ and international experience in visual and strategic management and design of corporate brands gained at some of the most respected design studios in the UK, The Netherlands, Singapore and NZ.

Although I now live and work in Napier, my background growing up was based in England, UK and my working life was centred mainly in London including establishing a successful Central London design studio before emigrating to New Zealand in 2001.

In Auckland I worked for a leading design studio for approximately 2 years before establishing my own design practice again.

I am totally committed to providing individual business owners and corporates with strategic thinking and creative solutions for their visual communication needs. My aim is to provide solutions that work and at a price that provides great value and transparency in working together.

Since moving to New Zealand I have come to appreciate the kiwi lifestyle and the beauty of this country. This is where I re-engaged my love of photography when digital imaging came of age.{{ }}

Photography is now an integral part of my personal and professional life. I provide commercial photography for my clients whether it be products, people or shooting environments for use in print or online.

I am an Accredit Professional Photographer from the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP) and, as part of the annual photography awards submissions have achieved Master of Photography Honours (M.NZIPP II).

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Ron Schalkwijk

Area Group Manager

Email: [email protected]

021 0886 3379

As a dedicated business coach and broker, I specialize in helping business owners achieve MORE. Whether you're preparing to sell your business, buying a business, starting a new venture, or taking your existing business to the next level, I provide the support and expertise you need to succeed.

With a focus on delivering MORE options, I offer comprehensive guidance and solutions that align with your unique business goals. Whether it's optimizing your operations, exploring new market opportunities, or implementing growth strategies, I am here to help you make informed decisions and drive your business forward.

I am passionate about making a difference in your business performance and personal satisfaction. With my support, you can unlock your full potential, overcome challenges, and achieve extraordinary results.

I understand that every business is unique, and I offer MORE flexibility by tailoring strategies and solutions that are specifically designed for your business's success.

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Susannah Cowan

Area Group Manager

I have been working with MTF Finance for six years and have spent the last two years owning my own MTF Finance franchise in Taupō. With a background in franchise and sales management, I am passionate about business growth and providing a best-in-class customer experience. As a business owner, I place a lot of value in networking. I am an active member in the local business community, volunteering for the Taupo Business Chamber Board.

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Ross Wilson

Area Group Manager

Ross is a relentless and passionate networker who is constantly meeting up with members to learn more about their business, and to identify ways in which he can help their businesses grow. His business “Growing Organisations” is therefore, very aptly named.

Ross offers more than 30 years of experience as a company director, business leader, award-winning learning and strategy facilitator, and business performance improvement adviser in a wide range of industries throughout New Zealand and internationally. He’s also frequently consulted about B2B sales performance and non-profit organisational ethics. Ross has a multi-dimensional perspective, having lived in 5 countries and worked in many others. He works with organisations to strengthen leadership effectiveness, align best practices with values and purpose, boost sustainable revenues & gross profit, and create high performing teams. Outside of work, Ross loves travelling, mountain biking, beach-hopping, boating, and having dining with friends.

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Dean Larritt

Area Group Manager

Dean is co-owner of Maintain To Profit with Mark. Professionally he is a qualified cabinetmaker with 17 years’ experience in the building industry, working extensively in both the residential and commercial sectors for that time. Before joining Maintain To Profit Dean spent 6 years in commercial and residential flooring. Need advice on kitchens, bathrooms, super yacht fitouts or flooring of any type, then Dean is your man.

Dean has an astute understanding for both his clients’ needs and also the needs of their vastly experienced contractors. Top of his priority list is to ensure all clients are completely satisfied and at ease with the service that Maintain To Profit offers, to keep them coming back time and time again and referring the company’s services to friends and family.

“Married to my lovely wife Aimee, we have two children, Anna and Cooper. We enjoy weekends away, with time spent out fishing and diving. Any starters for a fishing trip make sure you get in touch! I also enjoy mountain bike riding and like to keep active.”

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Elpi Lakalakis

Area Group Manager

Elpi Lakakis loves interacting with people. It is her natural ability to communicate with people from all walks of life, along with her 30 years experience working within the hospitality industry that drives Elpi to create unique and positive realty experiences for her clients. For Elpi, people come first and her ability to listen and put them at ease means she can quickly evaluate her client’s needs. Thinking beyond the sale is also part of the process; Elpi believes that helping clients find solutions that are right for them is important for their future happiness and overall satisfaction. She loves positive outcomes and works hard to achieve them. Elpi’s warm and friendly personality is backed by a strong work ethic, ingrained as a teenager when she worked in her brother’s restaurant and then went on, with her husband Dimitri, to run two successful Christchurch businesses - Costas Souvlaki Bar (the first in New Zealand) and Costas Taverna.

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Alan Tane Solomon

Area Group Manager

Experienced Facilitator with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. Skilled in Event Management, Team Building, Journalism, Television, and Training. Strong media and communication professional graduated from Waiariki Institute of Technology. ATS Coach (ATS) is a professional and licensed Life Coaching and Professional Speaking business specialised in helping clients achieve their personal and business goals, improving their competence, capacity and productivity.

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Jared (Jed) Roberts

Area Group Manager

I am Jed –
And here’s why I want to help you achieve your health and fitness goals – I myself was scared to walk into a gym to get fit and look better because I was worried what others might think however this challenge is nothing compared to looking in the mirror and seeing something you don’t want to. Gratefully I now know how important health and fitness is and how amazing it will make you feel. Have you ever seen people running down the road in what looked to be excruciating pain?? It really doesn’t have to be like that! Let’s take a look at some examples… Have you ever been told you must go to the gym to lose weight – well what if you hate the gym? Or you should run for 30 minutes or don’t bother – what if you hate running or don’t have 30 minutes up your sleeve? You might have been recommended a DIEt because it worked for that person – you may think the food in that DIEt is yuck, so why would you? Maybe a pill to help you lose weight (burn fat) – did you take one to gain weight… NOO. You already know the answers to these questions, they’re all just common sense so keep it simple and ignore the confusing jargon out there.

You can find your shortcut to good health in Shirley at 39 Sabina Street, Christchurch, which is very close to The Palms Shopping Mall. Ideal if you need to grab some bits after a session or perhaps just enjoy your favourite coffee.

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Nicolas Thomas

Area Group Manager

Nick has a broad background in a wide range of technical disciplines, with experience in event management, mechanical engineering, biological science, data recovery, and digital forensic investigations.
This experience affords him unique 'out of the box' insights which ensures he is able to assist with all tech-related problems.

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Tim Knudsen

Area Group Manager

I am a dynamic and results-driven professional with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in investment banking services, financial markets, management, research, project, and customer service. My innate desire to achieve enables me to exceed targets and business objectives even within a demanding working environment without compromising the quality of my work. My excellent interpersonal and communication skills equip me to provide exceptional service to my clients and develop positive internal and external relationships.

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Katrina Harding

Area Group Manager

I’m a Travel Broker – check out www.katrinaharding.travel – still operating throughout Covid, although I’m not quite as busy. I love travel and I love to travel and to assist my clients book their dream holidays, wherever they may be. As travel returns networking will renew its importance as people will look for the hand-holding and support that a professional can give, passing on border rules and updated country entry requirements. TNG is a great way to connect people and ensure contacts are looked after.

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Register as a visitor

As a visitor you can attend two TNG meetings for free. No fees, no contract, no commitment. If you like what you see, you can simply sign up.

    "Proudly New Zealand owned and operated, helping local New Zealand businesses connect, improve and grow."

    "Committed to connecting, improving and growing New Zealand businesses in a structured networking environment."

    Please register me for the next meeting

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      "Proudly New Zealand owned and operated, helping local New Zealand businesses connect, improve and grow."

      "Committed to connecting, improving and growing New Zealand businesses in a structured networking environment."

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      1

      ROD KELK

      Area Group Manager

      Empower Business offers business advisory and systems accounting services to all types of businesses across Northland.
      Our proprietary STAR Cycle (Strategy . Tools. Activity . Results) helps business owners to increase the profitability and value of their business in a structured manner.
      Call us for a no-obligation chat about your situation.

      Visit TNG Group

      ROD KELK

      Area Group Manager

      Empower Business offers business advisory and systems accounting services to all types of businesses across Northland.
      Our proprietary STAR Cycle (Strategy . Tools. Activity . Results) helps business owners to increase the profitability and value of their business in a structured manner.
      Call us for a no-obligation chat about your situation.

      Visit TNG Group

      Tibor Mackor

      Area Group Manager

      Business owners generally have no money or time, you gain both, in working with me, so that you have a business that creates more money and gives you the opportunity to have the time you always wanted from your own business.

      With an extensive background in chartered accounting, I have over 20 years involvement in advising business leaders on strategies to achieve growth. Heading up diverse businesses, including co-operatives and private companies in New Zealand, South Africa and Europe, I am a specialist in managing change and stimulating business improvement and development.

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      Theo Simeonidis

      Area Group Manager

      UProtectNZ Insurance Services

      Following an extensive career as a Company Secretary and CEO and 30 years of community volunteering, Theo continues to provide important services to the community. Theo is very well known as a networking 'legend' in TNG giving tirelessly to his groups and members.

      Theo specialises in risk protection for individuals, families and businesses. All insurance companies have their specific 'sweet spots' – Theo’s detailed product knowledge enables him to find the best 'sweet spot' for his clients, in terms of the type, quality and amount of cover, as well as making sure the cost is competitive, manageable and sustainable. He provides a comprehensive and professional service, including advocacy, in pursuing claims on behalf of his clients.

      Founding Member TNG Ellerslie 2014, Area Group Manager TNG Orewa, Silverdale and Hibiscus Coast, Group Manager TNG Warkworth, Chairperson Silverdale Business, Rotary Club member of Orewa-Millwater, Organiser "Greek Extravaganza" Annual Charity Function.

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      Ramola Duncan

      Area Group Manager

      Director
      Ramola Duncan Ltd.
      Elevate Your Brand, Illuminate Your Events
      Phone: +64 28 8519 3834 Website: www.ramoladuncan.co.nz Email: [email protected]

      BIO: Ramola Duncan is a highly skilled professional with a wealth of experience and expertise. She possesses a unique talent for generating innovative ideas and has a proven track record of successfully spearheading diverse projects and campaigns. Ramola offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to a wide range of needs. Her services encompass marketing and social media strategy, branding and identity development, leadership development, and academic consulting. She is also recognized for her impactful workshops and training sessions, with a focus on governance, management, and employability skills, benefiting businesses, non-profit organizations, young professionals, and students alike. Ramola's versatility extends to event management and the cultivation of fresh ideas. Her dedication to relationship building underlines all her services, ensuring effective collaboration and successful project execution. Through her diverse service offerings, Ramola is committed to creating lasting and positive impacts.

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      Tibor Mackor

      Area Group Manager

      Business owners generally have no money or time, you gain both, in working with me, so that you have a business that creates more money and gives you the opportunity to have the time you always wanted from your own business.

      With an extensive background in chartered accounting, I have over 20 years involvement in advising business leaders on strategies to achieve growth. Heading up diverse businesses, including co-operatives and private companies in New Zealand, South Africa and Europe, I am a specialist in managing change and stimulating business improvement and development.

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      REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

        "Proudly New Zealand owned and operated, helping local New Zealand businesses connect, improve and grow."

        "Committed to connecting, improving and growing New Zealand businesses in a structured networking environment."

        REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

          "Proudly New Zealand owned and operated, helping local New Zealand businesses connect, improve and grow."

          "Committed to connecting, improving and growing New Zealand businesses in a structured networking environment."

          Howard George

          Area Group Manager

          Howard is a Chartered Accountant with over 40 years’ experience in senior accounting and management positions in New Zealand businesses. Howard has been a business sales specialist with Company Sales and Acquisitions Limited for over 3 years. His background and experience enable him to help owners prepare the business for sale so as to generate strong genuine interest and the best returns. If you are considering selling your business please give him a call.

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          Steve Smith

          Area Group Manager

          Steve is a multi-faceted sales and marketing professional with experience across a broad spectrum of industries including automotive, retail, publishing, electrical engineering, leisure and financial services. With a particular focus on customer service Steve’s mission is to work on your brand to make your brand work for you. He does this by supplying customised apparel and promotional products, helping your brand ‘get noticed’.

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          Sarah Kavanagh

          Area Group Manager

          The Live Well Tribe
          Sarah successfully launched the Cambridge group of TNG in 2018 and has now moved to Wellington where she has opened the first TNG group in Wellington. "I am thrilled to be involved in the launch of TNG Wellington. TNG has helped me make valuable connections and grow my business through referrals. I look forward to meeting Wellington business people and creating a vibrant networking group in our capital city

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          Paul Foster

          Area Group Manager

          Senior Sales Partner at Iron Bridge Real Estate since 2009 and previously Property Investment Sales Manager 2006 - 2009.
          Recognised for reaching a standard of excellence, I received Gold Badge Status in 2012 in the Pittard Training Group putting me in the top 5% of the industry. Later that same year Paul became the first Kiwi to win an award at the Australasian Real Estate Awards being awarded 'Most Improved Salesperson'.

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          Nigel Ekins

          Area Group Manager

          Nigel Ekins is the owner of Phoenix Consultancy Services Auckland. He specialises in web development and makeovers, lead generation, web analysis and copywriting. Nigel has worked in a variety of industries and his focus has been on the back end, looking at processes regarding how businesses communicate with clients, staff etc.

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          Clare Baker

          Area Group Manager

          I am a passionate, self-motivated, people person who loves a challenge and thrives on excellent customer service. The thrill of reaching and over achieving targets compliments my competitive nature.

          I am fortunate to be part of eGENTIC Asia Pacific who are industry-leaders in digital lead generation services. I enjoy working as part of a team and firmly believe that as individuals we can shine together to provide the best outcome for our company and our customers alike.

          My work history demonstrates that my technical knowledge has enabled me to leverage sales opportunities and gain ‘Win-Win-Win’ situations. My sales methodology is very much consultative based.

          Every contact and conversation presents an opportunity. I always want to make sure I am ready for the opportunities that come my way.

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          Karl Jackson

          Area Group Manager

          Karl is a property management specialist with extensive experience in managing a large commercial property. He has specialised in property maintenance and has overseen large renovation and maintenance projects. Developing strong relationships is the foundation of Karl’s work ethic. This has enabled him to build a successful network within the Remuera and Eastern Bays area. Karl achieved a Diploma in Health and Safety which has given him an in-depth understanding of how to navigate the intricacies of current legislation.

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          Rawinia Matthews

          Area Group Manager

          Are you considering selling a property in Central Auckland or West Auckland?

          To see if I can add value to you, I'd like to ask you a few questions:
          • Why are you selling? Is there some way in which we can help you to keep this property?
          • By what date do you want to sell? Is there anything pressing you to that date?
          • Who are your advisors (finance/legal/insurance/etc.)?
          • Do you need help in getting your property ready to go to market?

          Here’s how I help people in your situation: I am a licensed real estate agent with over 3 decades in real estate sales, so I have usually experienced most situations that a seller could face.

          The people who find I’m ideally suited to help tend to be committed sellers who are market ready.

          My sellers hire me because of the benefits of my service, which include:
          • I am proudly aligned with Arizto Limited, a NZ company and licensed real estate agent
          • We are a digital full-service agency with a fixed fee of $10,000 +GST for successfully selling a property; all our documentation is online, and we are really easy to deal with
          • Being a fully-digital agency means that I can spend more time working for my sellers
          • After the initial appraisal, every step in the sales process is automated on mobile/PC and fully transparent. The only exception to this is if the property is going to auction, in which case there must be an on-site auctioneer and paperwork on the sale day
          • The deposit paid by a seller always goes to a third-party trust account, never to the agency
          • We make the connect to the lawyer and send them the documentation for review pre-sale
          • A feature of our system is the ability to instantly convert a viewing into an open home
          • I have a pool of trusted advisors and contractors who can be sure to smooth the sales experience for my sellers and we will ensure that the property is fully presentable to the market
          • For buyers, I teach them how to be market-ready

          Just briefly, here’s how I came to be in this business: with a young family I couldn't go back to nursing, so going into real estate was a way to get a business up and running whilst raising my children. I had recently purchased a property and I thought that I could do as good a job. Now, some 3 decades later, I know that I made the right choice, and so do the hundreds of sellers who have entrusted me with the sale of their homes (many of them having done so more than once).

          If you’re interested in learning more, do get in touch for a friendly chat about how I can help.

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          Geoffrey Hughes

          Area Group Manager

          Geoffrey has had a varied and rich working life, he has worked in a number of senior management positions and as a self-employed contractor. He co-founded a start-up taking it to a national company within 10 years, receiving a letter of congratulations from the Prime Minister on their 10th anniversary. Geoffrey is now Business Manager & co-owner of a full suite accounting practice based on Auckland’s North Shore.

          I work with clients either on a 1:1 basis or via my unique, semi-group coaching course, called the Construction Business MasterClass.

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          Andy Burrows

          Area Group Manager

          I specialise in coaching the owners of construction-based companies to improve their business performance. They include builders, electricians, plumbers, HVAC and other specialist contactors.
          The typical business owner I work with loves what he does, is happiest solving technical challenges for his clients, but feels held back by all the other stuff that is essential in running a successful business. That may be building a marketing and sales system, clients from hell who are over demanding and then slow to pay; staff who can’t come up to the owner’s standard of work and result in too many call-backs, or the demands of all the quoting and administration that keep you up all hours of the night. Many tradies have had extensive technical training in their chosen field, but seldom any training in running a growing business. I help fill that knowledge gap.

          I work with clients either on a 1:1 basis or via my unique, semi-group coaching course, called the Construction Business MasterClass.

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          Rich Ellis

          Rich Ellis

          Area Group Manager

          Rich Ellis is a health coach, a speaker and a mentor. Rich helps kiwi businesses get healthier through workshops and programmes that address organisational culture and individual health and wellness challenges.
          Rich takes a holistic approach, leaving no stone unturned in pursuit of optimal health and a stronger bottom line.

          Sharon Kawe

          Sharon Kawe

          Area Group Manager

          The principal of SJK Accountants Ltd, Sharon brings a wealth of business knowledge and understanding of challenges facing small to medium sized business owners. She believes owners need a consistent point of contact they can ring to chat about their latest business challenge. SJK help take the stress out of dealing with forecasting, accounting packages, tax compliance and change. SJK work with small to medium sized businesses, trusts and rental owners.

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          Judith Scott

          Judith Scott

          Area Group Manager

          Melaleuca The Wellness Co
          Judith has been passionate in business networking and connecting people and earned many major awards for her work in enhancing lives. She loves helping others gain financial freedom & improved wellness. Her story took her from pain to gain.

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          Yvonne Procter

          Yvonne Procter

          Area Group Manager

          With over 25 years’ experience, the award-winning advisers at Insurance Works create personalised insurance strategies providing advice and protection for all aspects of your business and family life, utilising medical, income protection, trauma and life insurance products.

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          Trevor Huett

          Trevor Huett

          Area Group Manager

          Empower Business offers business advisory and systems accounting services to all types of businesses across Northland.
          Our proprietary STAR Cycle (Strategy . Tools. Activity . Results) helps business owners to increase the profitability and value of their business in a structured manner.
          Call us for a no-obligation chat about your situation.

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          John Milner

          John Milner

          Area Group Manager

          My name is John Milner, I am an award winning Certified Financial Planner and managing director of boutique investment advisory firm Collaboratrive Consulting Ltd.

          With three decades of industry experience, advising busy successful individuals, businesses, family trusts and charitable trusts I have seen and done it all. Rather than work with institutions, we prefer to work with academics, to provide what we call Evidence Based Advice and placing our clients interests before our own.

          For those that are wanting to make work optional, we provide less risk, more control and greater certainty with their financial future.

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          Catherine Cooke

          Catherine Cooke

          Area Group Manager

          A business owner turned business advisor and Founder of The Engine.

          I’ve always been fascinated by business and the opportunities to scale to greater heights personally and professionally.

          I built my first company from the ground up, to multiple companies with a staff number of 90. And I almost lost everything when another business venture was derailed by circumstances out of my control.

          It’s safe to say I know growing pains and adversity well and have seen what happens when a business goes well …and not so well.

          I’ve been a business advisor for the last seven years, with an extensive track record in helping hundreds of businesses grow. I was the Business Advisor for the Business Chamber of Commerce covering business problems nationwide in 2015.

          But what I’ve observed in this role is the lack of holistic business advice in the marketplace.

          Sure there are plenty of coaches, consultants and companies out there doing great work to help businesses but it’s often directed to one specific area of business, and doesn’t look at a business as a whole or include the voice of the team and clients. This can lead to all sorts of issues and can really stall growth.

          I’ve also watched business owners try to do it all, wearing too many hats, not focusing on what they’re good at then delegating the rest.
          My motto is “delegate to elevate” and that’s what I’m passionate about helping business owners do, so they can experience true growth.

          But I know they can’t do it alone.

          That’s why I founded The Engine.

          It’s a collaborative community of business professionals from experienced advisors, to a network of specialist business owners personally selected by me.

          Because lets’ face it – running a business is a lonely business.

          Having a team of skilled people cheering you on and offering sound business advice and trusted services is invaluable and a key to business success.

          If you’re looking for access to unrivalled monthly business support that won’t break the bank – you’re in the right place.

          Garth Partridge

          Garth Partridge

          National Groups Manager

          My learnings from business ownership, my work as a business coach and my belief in the advantages of business networking, provide me with the skill to perform my role. My passion is to help business owners achieve even better results.

          Chanelle Reid

          Chanelle Reid

          Area Group Manager

          Chanelle Reid is founder of Ice Marketing which is a full service, bespoke marketing agency located in Pukekohe. Combining forces with her husband, Matt and his web design company, Razor Web Design, Chanelle and Matt operate their team of 13 people across the services of web design and marketing through these two brands.
          Ice Marketing specialises in social media marketing but also covers strategy, digital marketing, online/offline integration and more.
          When she isn’t in the business, Chanelle is a competitive Dressage rider and also loves property investment and travel.
          Business Networking has been a huge part of Chanelle’s growth in business which is what has drawn her into being involved in TNG as South Auckland Area Manager.

          Melanie Headshot

          Melanie Budden

          Sales Manager

          Melanie has owned her own businesses for over 25 years and understands what business is like from all perspectives. With this empathy she is available to work with our members and our visitors to maximise their networking opportunity, discuss ideas, feedback and strives towards the philosophies of both constant improvement and consistency.

          Mark Trafford

          Mark Trafford

          Director

          Mark had already successfully built a multi-million dollar business through networking and his passion for business networking led him to start TNG in 2012. Mark truly believes that small business in New Zealand doesn’t need a big marketing and advertising budget. What they need are other great business owners and professionals around them to support their many challenges in their business. Mark believes TNG provides that very platform for its members.