Dame Susan Devoy is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated sportswomen, volunteer and advocate. Awarded a CBE and MBE she was made a Dame in 1998 for her services to sport in NZ these include her achievements as a world champion for four years, but also her work as chair of the Halberg Foundation for 12 years and the leadership she showed as a patron of the Muscular Dystrophy Assn when she walked the length of NZ in 1988 to raise $500,000 for research and support networks.

Dame Susan was the Race Relations Commissioner for five years and throughout her tenure she was known for her empathy with people and her ability to relate to all people, respecting and learning their rituals, beliefs, challenges and issues. This focus, with people at the centre, is valuable to us in a scientific and environmentally focused strategic view.

Known for her practical and common-sense approach, Dame Susan brings an outside view, an approach that is direct and questioning. Her experience as a CEO and chairperson of large entities alongside her many achievements, brings a wide governance overview to application, commitment, dedication, planning and delivery.