CEN - Contact Chair to retire this year, new Chair appointed

Friday 1st May 2026

As previously advised Contact Energy Limited Chair, Rob McDonald, will retire from the Contact Board at the company’s Annual Shareholder Meeting later this year. The Contact Board has elected current director Jon Macdonald to succeed Rob McDonald as Chair, with the change to take effect at the conclusion of the Annual Meeting.

Rob McDonald joined Contact’s Board in 2015 and has served as Chair since 2018. During Rob’s time as Chair, Contact has accelerated its renewable generation strategy, delivered major initiatives to support New Zealand’s energy transition and completed the acquisition of Manawa Energy Limited. The Contact Board acknowledges Rob McDonald’s significant contributions over his tenure and unanimously supports Jon Macdonald’s appointment as the next Chair.

Jon Macdonald has been an independent non executive director of Contact since 2018. He is the former Chief Executive of Trade Me Group, currently chairs Sharesies Group Limited and serves as a director of Mitre 10 New Zealand and Kiwibank Limited. The Board noted that Jon Macdonald’s extensive governance and executive experience will ensure strong continuity of leadership for Contact.

Contact Board Chair Rob McDonald said “It’s been a privilege to serve on the Contact Board and as Chair during a period of significant growth for the company. I am proud of what we have achieved together and have every confidence in Contact’s future. Jon is an outstanding director, and I am delighted that he will succeed me as Chair. The company will be in very good hands under his leadership.”

Contact Chief Executive Mike Fuge said “I want to thank Rob for his outstanding leadership and guidance as our Chair. Under Rob’s tenure, Contact has been transformed - from advancing our renewables programme to navigating major strategic initiatives - all while maintaining a clear focus on our customers and shareholders. We will miss Rob’s wise counsel, but we are pleased to see Jon stepping into the role of Chair. Jon’s experience and vision, along with the strong governance foundation that Rob has established, will ensure a smooth transition and continued momentum for Contact’s strategy.”

Contact Chair to retire this year, new Chair appointed

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