Patrick is an accomplished logistics professional with extensive experience across multiple sectors. He began his career as a Logistics Officer in the German Bundeswehr, serving for 12 years in Germany and Bosnia. In 2004, he transitioned to a role with a German freight forwarder in Frankfurt, helping various industries tackle logistical challenges.

Since 2022, Patrick has been with Go Logistics in New Zealand, where he specializes in Project Logistics, managing everything from AOG spare parts to 40-ton generators for hydroelectric dams. His expertise also spans Fairs & Events Logistics, Renewable Energies, Oil & Gas, and Automotive. Additionally, Patrick is an active Board Member of the GNZCC.

Astrid draws on 20+ years of experience in leading and delivering transformations in the areas of culture change, restructuring and system implementation. She has specialised in organisational development, change management and leadership development and has worked with global organisations and teams in Germany, Switzerland and the US across various industries.

Astrid coaches leaders, individuals and teams to realise their full potential and adapt to changes. She is a big believer in trusted advisory, the growth mindset, and collaborative, innovative formats.  In addition, Astrid engages in social projects and platforms which advocate diversity, inclusion and personal development.

Amita is General Manger, Finance with Kingspan Insulation NZ Limited, an Irish multinational based in Auckland. Amita is an experienced Finance Executive and has held senior Leadership roles with Monsanto and Bayer across Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific. Amita has a proud track record of Merger and Acquisition, Business transformation and improving operational excellence and raising the compliance and governance bar.

As an empathetic leader who values connection and community, Amita strives to create an environment where new ideas and different opinions are welcome and heard. She believes that the diverse experiences and perspectives provided by working with multinational teams enriches her leadership role and ultimately drives better results and solutions.

Amita holds a Bachler of Commerce from the University of Bombay, India as well as Masters Diploma in Business Management. She is Certified Management Accountants (CMA) with the Institute of Management Accountant and a Certified Member of the Institute of Director of New Zealand.

Joerg Schmidt is the General Manager and a Director for Mercedes-Benz New Zealand Ltd, the local division of the global Mercedes-Benz automotive brand, offering a wide range of market-leading luxury vehicles. Mercedes-Benz New Zealand offers its products both online and through a national network of authorised retail outlets with exceptional sales and service. Operations in New Zealand are backed by robust marketing along with a company focus on innovation, performance, sustainability, heritage and customer service, upholding the high standards of the Mercedes-Benz name in New Zealand.

Joerg originally from Reutlingen / Germany joined Mercedes-Benz in 1988 and has held various positions in Finance, Sales & General Management with the company that have taken him all around the globe from Stuttgart to Egypt, Singapore, South Africa, Russia, Hungary, and Australia. He has been leading the New Zealand operations since February 2023.                                                        

Britta Saxer, founder of Saxer Design Ltd, brings over 20 years of experience in New Zealand, helping businesses succeed across borders. As an accomplished web designer, she established one of Berlin’s first web-based agencies during the early days of the internet, evolving her expertise alongside technological advancements.

Today, Britta specialises in crafting impactful visual identities, seamlessly blending design, branding, and marketing guidance to help businesses communicate authentically with their target audiences in Germany and New Zealand.

With her German roots and extensive business background in Berlin, she provides invaluable insights into creating culturally appropriate frameworks for entering these markets. In October 2023, Britta received the inaugural GNZCC Business Award for her outstanding contribution to DE/NZ trade relations.

Walter Kuch is the Senior Consultant at UZIN Utz South Pacific Ltd. He founded the company 2008 in New Zealand, which looks after NZ, AUS and the Pacific islands.  UZIN UTZ, a listed family business, stands for Flooring technology in all its facets. The development from a small regional manufacturer of adhesives to one of the world's leading manufacturers of system products for flooring technology, because the clear focus on the core competence of environmental and user friendly flooring products is unique worldwide.

UZIN Utz is active in 53 countries, thereof 20 countries with sales and/or manufacturing facilities and employs  app. 1500 people worldwide. Walter joined the company in 1987 had various technical roles as well as sales experience national and international. In 2006 Walter migrated with his family to New Zealand and established after a market research UZIN Utz Soth Pacific Ltd.

Adam Shaver was raised in Germany and is a Canadian and Australian dual citizen. He completed his Bachelor and MBA degrees in Canada, and joined the BMW Group there in 2002 as a Management Trainee.

Since then, he has gained experience in various leadership roles both in Canada and at global headquarters in Munich, including a total of 10 years working on the MINI brand.

He moved to New Zealand in 2022 to take on the position of Managing Director, BMW Group New Zealand, where he now works with his team and a strong network of BMW and MINI Dealers to provide industry-leading products and experiences to customers across the country.

.