SOE power companies gain XX factor with Shipley, Withers

Tuesday 20th October 2009

Two of New Zealand's leading political and businesswomen have been appointed to major positions in the annual spring-cleaning of State Owned Enterprise boards.

Jenny Shipley, former prime minister, has been appointed chairman of Genesis Energy, while former Fairfax Media New Zealand chief executive Joan Withers has been named chair of competing SOE Mighty River Power. Shipley replaces Brian Corban and Withers replaces Carole Durbin.

The two women are among 24 new appointments, reappointments and positional changes across 10 SOE boards and two airport boards announced today by SOE minister Simon Power.

Four new deputy chairs have also been confirmed; the Honourable Dr Michael Cullen at NZ Post, John Ashby at AsureQuality, Janine Smith at Kordia and Trevor James at Mighty River Power.

Serving chairs Rt Hon Jim Bolger at NZ Post and John Palmer at Solid Energy have been reappointed for 12 months each.

"This appointment process continues the work the National-led Government started earlier this year to bolster the commercial strength of all the SOE boards," Power said.

"I'm delighted that some of New Zealand's most seasoned and successful commercial governance practitioners, along with an exciting mix of new talent, continue to agree to serve on these boards. I look forward to the contribution I am sure all will make to the commercial success of these critical assets."

Businesswire.co.nz

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