Two new young directors have joined the Priority One board this month, continuing a legacy of emerging leadership that brings fresh insight to the organisation’s work in shaping the future of Tauranga Moana. Michael Wright and Amy Willoughby (pictured above) step into the roles with a shared commitment to community, innovation, and long-term economic resilience, while outgoing directors Jessica Bevin and Rikki-Lee Joyce reflect on the impact and lessons of their time around the table.

For Michael Wright (Ngāti Awa), Surfacing Divisional Manager at Fulton Hogan, the role is an extension of his deep investment in the region’s future. Originally from Rotorua, and now raising a young family in Tauranga, Michael brings a strategic mindset shaped by infrastructure, operations, and a dedication to Māori economic development. He sees the boardroom as an important space for influencing initiatives that support high-skilled employment pathways and collaboration between business and education. His vision for the city is both practical and aspirational, building a sustainable, inclusive community that supports people to thrive while celebrating the unique cultural and natural strengths of Tauranga Moana. “Serving as a board member will allow me to get involved with initiatives that drive innovation, infrastructure development, and Māori economic growth,” he says. “Additionally, as a proud Māori, I am passionate about enhancing Māori outcomes and supporting pathways to higher-skilled employment, which are critical for the collective success and cultural richness of Tauranga Moana.”

Amy Willoughby, Business Development Manager at Trevelyan’s, has spent the past five years immersed in the kiwifruit sector. Her curiosity about the industry’s innovation and resilience led her from rural banking into a hands-on leadership role in horticulture, where she now also contributes as a director on KVH (Kiwifruit Vine Health). Biosecurity, sustainability, and workforce development are key priorities for Amy, and she brings a wide-ranging perspective from her experience.

She sees opportunity in making the region more attractive to younger generations-offering meaningful career pathways and reasons to stay and invest their future locally. Joining the Priority One board, she says, is a chance to both contribute and grow, learning from the experience of others while helping shape decisions that matter. Amy is looking forward to getting around the table: “I am particularly excited about the prospect of working within a collaborative executive team, where I can not only contribute my perspectives but also learn from seasoned leaders to further develop my leadership capabilities.”

The outgoing directors leave with a clear sense of what the experience has given them. Jessica Bevin, Adaptive Pathways Lead at Mercury, appreciated the breadth of Priority One’s work from business engagement to workforce and talent development. She was particularly drawn to the organisation’s holistic approach to economic development, one that includes social and environmental factors alongside business growth. “I learned so much about the work going on behind the scenes to support the region,” she says, encouraging the new directors to take time to understand the people and issues shaping the Western Bay’s future.

For Rikki-Lee Joyce, Manager of Integrated Operations & Insights at Te Mahau, the boardroom offered a space to contribute a youth lens to significant strategic conversations, especially those around regional resilience. She found the experience humbling and eye-opening, highlighting how interconnected leadership across sectors needs to be. Her biggest takeaway was the importance of long-term thinking and asking the right questions. “Economic development isn’t just about growth,” she reflects, “it’s about sustainability, inclusion, and aligning with community values. As a young director, it was powerful to see Priority One actively addressing the needs of my generation and creating opportunities that connect education with meaningful local employment.” She leaves with a deepened appreciation for governance, and for the potential of the region to support inclusive growth, especially for rangatahi and Māori.

As the young director programme continues to evolve, the value of having diverse, early-career perspectives at the table is clear. It’s not only a pathway for emerging leaders to gain experience, but also a tangible expression of the region’s commitment to inclusive leadership and future-focused thinking. With Michael and Amy now on board, that future is in thoughtful, capable hands.

The Priority One board and team extend their sincere thanks to Jessica and Rikki-Lee for their energy, insight and dedication during their time as young directors. Their contributions have helped shape important conversations and leave a lasting impact on the organisation’s direction and kaupapa. We wish them all the best in their continued leadership journeys.