Unison Group - Independent Director x 4

The organisation

Unison is a group of specialist companies delivering world-class sustainable energy solutions across Australasia. We employ over 1,100 people and manage net assets exceeding $520 million. Unison is proudly owned by the Hawke’s Bay Power Consumers’ Trust, on behalf of consumers connected to our electricity network in Hawke’s Bay.

While electricity distribution remains our core focus, Unison Group has strategically expanded into adjacent industries through investments in high-voltage contracting, transformer and switchgear manufacturing, and industrial services — creating a diversified and future-focused portfolio.

Our vision is simple but powerful: Together, we’re leading a sustainable energy future.
 

We achieve this through a strong, values-led culture grounded in:

• Safety & Wellbeing
• Excellence
• Customer Service
• Integrity
• Teamwork

The Unison Group (www.unison.co.nz) includes:

Unison Power, Unison Contracting, Unison Insurance, ETEL, pba (High Voltage Experts), RPS Switchgear.

The opportunity

To support our long-term strategy and the transition to a more integrated operating model, Unison Group is establishing two new Divisions — Services and Products — to unlock synergies, streamline governance, and enhance capability as we respond to the growing demands of electrification, decarbonisation, and energy resilience.

As part of this strategic evolution, the Group’s governance structure is also being reshaped — from six boards to four: 

• The Unison Group Board
• A Services Board (overseeing UCSL and PBA)
• A Products Board (overseeing ETEL and RPS)
• A Unison Insurance Board

Each Board will include independent directors alongside a representative from the Unison Group Board, ensuring alignment, focus, and accountability across the enterprise.

We are now seeking four independent directors to join our refreshed governance structure:

• Two Independent Directors – Products Board
• One Independent Director – Services Board
• One Independent Director – Unison Insurance Board

The skills and experience sought

These are rare opportunities to help shape the direction of a complex, high-performing business with a strong regional heritage and national impact. We are seeking candidates with:

Essential attributes:

• Governance experience or senior executive exposure to board-level decision making
• Understanding of manufacturing and/or service industries
• Experience in senior leadership roles within large organisations
• Proven commercial acumen and strategic oversight

Desirable expertise (one or more of the following):

• Manufacturing sector leadership
• Strong financial and analytical skills
• Contractor or operational service management experience
• Experience in insurance within a complex organisation

Commitment required

Boards meet approximately nine times per year, with an additional annual strategy session. Meetings typically run for 4–5 hours and are a mix of in-person and virtual attendance.

Apply

To submit your application, click on the “apply now” button below. The IoD is managing applicant interest so please contact Manager, Board Appointments, michelle.pearson@iod.org.nz for application support or more information. We appreciate your application ahead of the closure date.

Advertising closes at 11.59pm on 15 July 2025.

Please note: Selection screening will take place throughout July. Interviews are planned for week commencing 11 August.