New Chief Executive for toi eda

Donna Perese (Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Te Whakatōhea, Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa) has been appointed the new Chief Executive of Toi EDA, the economic development agency for the Eastern Bay of Plenty. She has spent the last fifteen years working in the region on economic development and has additional experience in the health, education, and social services sectors.

Donna was brought up in Kawerau and Te Teko and now lives in Te Kaha where she is currently Manager & Projects Co-ordinator for Te Kaha Group Holdings working with a range of stakeholders. She has also been a Provincial Growth Fund Advisor for Te Puni Kokiri. Donna holds degrees in Education and Business Management.

“After an extensive search that produced a high-quality range of candidates, we are delighted to appoint a local leader who understands the opportunities for the region,” said Toi EDA Chair Wiremu Doherty, “Donna has strong working relationships and insights to help take the organisation and the region forward. I would like also to acknowledge and thank departing General Managers Ian Morton and Karl Gradon for all their work and the healthy state in which they leave the organisation”.

Donna will commence with Toi EDA on July 18.