New Chief Executive for Education NZ

The Board of Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) has appointed David Downs as Chief Executive, following the recent departure of Amanda Malu.

ENZ Board Chair, Tony Gray said Mr Downs’ international and marketing experience, including his tenure as Chief Executive Officer of the New Zealand Story Group, made him well-placed to lead ENZ.

“David has an innate understanding of New Zealand and its competitive advantage in a rapidly changing world. Coupled with his leadership experience at New Zealand Story Group, he is well placed to lead ENZ at this time,” Mr Gray said. 

Mr Downs (pictured) is currently Chief Executive Officer of New Zealand Story Group, a role he has held since July 2021. Previously he has previously held a number of General Management roles at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), most recently working with the technology sector. Prior to this, he had an extensive career in leadership roles with Microsoft in New Zealand and Asia Pacific.

“David is a passionate New Zealander and storyteller by nature, and we are looking forward to his joining ENZ in June,” Mr Gray said. 

Dr Linda Sissons will continue as Acting Chief Executive until Mr Downs begins in the role on 2 June.