Southland Chamber Announces Board For 2025
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The Southland Business Chamber has unveiled its Board members for the 2025/26 term, following a strong election turnout and appointments that reflect its vision for diverse and future-focused leadership.
Breidi McStay, Marketing Manager at Windsor Architectural Hardware, has been elected as a board member. Her appointment marks a milestone for the Chamber, as she becomes the first intern board member to move into an elected position after serving in the intern role over the past 12 months.
Helen Robinson, Team Leader – Commercial & Partnerships for the new Southland Museum, was re-elected by Chamber members. She brings valuable continuity and experience to the board as it continues to build on recent achievements.
Two additional appointments have been made for one-year terms. Courtney Heke-McColgan, a Systems Innovator – Rautaki Māori with Healthy Families Invercargill at Active Southland, joins the Board as the Māori Business Representative. She brings deep knowledge and strong ties across Murihiku’s tangata whenua and mātā waka communities.
Jaime McNaught, of Selector Uniforms, has been appointed as the new Intern Board Member. She will follow in the footsteps of Breidi McStay, as part of the Chamber’s continued effort to foster emerging business leaders.
Chris Hughes, Chair of the Southland Business Chamber, said the selection process demonstrated the strength of Southland’s business sector.
“We were incredibly impressed by the depth of experience and leadership potential in this year’s candidates. It reflects the growing desire among Southland’s business community to be part of shaping our region’s future.”
The Board’s focus now shifts to the development of a new five-year strategic plan, set to begin in June. Priorities include increased support for the Māori economy, advancing the success of Māori-led businesses, and providing stronger advocacy for Southland enterprises facing both challenges and opportunities.
During the Chamber’s AGM, members also approved a modernised constitution, aligning the organisation with the updated Incorporated Societies Act 2022. This new governance structure is designed to support better transparency, accountability, and purpose-driven leadership.
The Chamber used the AGM as an opportunity to reflect on a successful year, as outlined in its 2024 Annual Report. Highlights included record engagement in the Southland Leadership Academy, the launch of the Youth Leadership Academy, and continued growth in the Engineering & Manufacturing Cluster.
Export Southland also celebrated success with its 2024 Gala event, recognising standout businesses and entrepreneurs. The Chamber’s membership base now exceeds 600, showing its growing influence and importance within the regional business landscape.
With renewed leadership and a clear direction, the Southland Business Chamber is positioned to continue its mission of empowering local businesses through education, support, and connection.