Revitalizing Connections, Redefining Opportunities

A seasoned investment and economic development professional, he offers over 20 years of global experience in government, consulting, and institutional investment. His expertise lies in policy development, deal structuring, and leading large-scale public-private partnerships for city-shaping projects. Trained as a certified public account and certified financial analyst, he is passionate about harnessing AI to transform economic planning and create sustainable growth strategies.

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A trained mountaineer, his early post-university years were spent trekking through the remotest parts of India, an experience that fuels his passion for the India and its paradoxes.

His personal interest involves analyzing business trends, consumer behaviour, and conducting equity research to identify high-potential companies within the Indian market.

He loves reading and feels that books like ‘India: A million mutinies’ has shaped his thinking.

As an Executive Committee member of the New Zealand India Trade Alliance and the India Business Lead, Ravi brings a wealth of experience and insight to the dynamic trade relationship between New Zealand and India. His extensive expertise in financial advisory services has uniquely positioned him to navigate and optimize the complexities of cross-border investments. Whether facilitating mergers and acquisitions or ensuring compliance with tax and regulatory requirements, Ravi is adept at crafting strategic solutions that empower businesses to thrive in competitive markets.

Leveraging a broad network across multiple regions in India, he is able to connect and engage with key stakeholders, fostering strong business relationships that span diverse sectors and geographies. His dedication to fostering robust business connections and his hands-on approach in guiding entities through the nuances of international trade underscore his commitment to both New Zealand and India's economic growth. Outside of his professional endeavors, Ravi cherishes time with his family and indulges his love for food, travel, and sports, reflecting the same passion and enthusiasm he brings to his work.

With over two decades of experience, Ken is a respected leader in New Zealand's business events and tourism sector. He currently heads the Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB), a part of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, where he is responsible for delivering the city's business events strategy. His role focuses on positioning Auckland as a premier international destination for conferences and events.

Under his leadership, Ken's high-performing team has successfully secured major international bids. This effort led to Auckland being named Oceania’s Best Business Events Destination for four consecutive years. His extensive background includes senior management roles and supporting high-profile city events like the 36th America’s Cup.

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Holding postgraduate qualifications and Harvard leadership training, Ken is known for building strong stakeholder relationships and fostering innovation. A dedicated community advocate, he actively promotes cross-cultural collaboration through his work and with the New Zealand India Trade Alliance.

Hema has nearly 20 years of experience in government, primarily in the defence and national security sector. In her previous role as the Chief Advisor for Industry and Science at the Ministry of Defence, she worked with industry, research and science entities, government agencies, and international partners to provide strategic advice to inform policy formulation, governance, and capability decisions.

In her former capacity as the Chief Science Advisor for Defence, she worked closely with the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor (PMCSA) and other Chief Science Advisors to contribute to government strategic thinking and decision-making. Hema has a strong background in emerging and disruptive technologies, with a focus on risk, governance, and impact.

In her current role as the Director for Programmes and Government Relations at Koi-Tū Centre for Informed Futures, Hema advises on evidence into policy, risks, long-term thinking and foresight, innovation, emerging technologies and their impact on society and national security, risks and foresight. She is also responsible for the Centre’s government relationships. She recently supported two government reviews on science, innovation and universities as the project lead.

Hema is extensively involved with international organisations, including the International Science Council, UN, OECD, and WEF, on matters relating to science diplomacy, foresight, and geo-strategic issues.
Hema is also a member of the board of MOTAT. Hema has a Master of Science in Physics and a Bachelor of Technology in Opto-electronics from the University of Auckland.