Pictured above: Jonny Hendriksen wins EY Entrepreneur of the Year for New Zealand 2024.
Nelson-based entrepreneur and founder of Shuttlerock, Jonny Hendriksen, has been awarded EY Entrepreneur of the Year for New Zealand in 2024, celebrating 25 years of the prestigious award.
At a gala event held on Wednesday night in Auckland, Jonny Hendriksen, Founder of the global digital creative company Shuttlerock, was honoured for his leadership in turning a small, local business into an international success.
Surrounded by fellow finalists, business leaders, and the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Hendriksen was named the overall winner, recognising his exceptional entrepreneurial journey and global impact.
Shuttlerock started from very humble beginnings in 2011, operating from Hendriksen’s kitchen table, the company under his leadership, has revolutionised digital advertising with its innovative Creative-as-a-Service (CaaS) solution. By combining human talent with advanced tech automation, Shuttlerock delivers round-the-clock production across the globe. The company now boasts a network of creative studios and sales offices spanning multiple continents, serving clients in over 40 languages.
Under Hendriksen’s leadership, Shuttlerock has grown to become an industry leader in the digital creative space. The company’s global reach and “follow-the-sun” model allow it to deliver high-quality services 24 hours a day, an achievement that impressed the judges.
Jason Macgregor, EY Entrepreneur of the Year New Zealand Program Leader, emphasises the impact of Hendriksen’s entrepreneurial vision. “At its core, entrepreneurship is about creating something that stands out, and Jonny has done just that. Shuttlerock is a prime example of how a Kiwi business can scale internationally, and Jonny’s determination to deliver better outcomes for his clients has been a key driver of his success,” Macgregor says.
Hendriksen’s win marks an important milestone in his entrepreneurial journey, which began with the founding of ValueClick Japan, where he made history as the first foreigner to IPO on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Cecilia Robinson, Chair of the judging panel, praises Hendriksen for his resilience and grounded approach to entrepreneurship. “Jonny embodies the modern entrepreneurial spirit,” Robinson says. “He has built a global business from Nelson, balancing his professional achievements with family life in a way that inspires others. His ability to stay grounded while leading Shuttlerock to global success makes him a standout winner.”
As part of his award, Hendriksen will represent New Zealand at the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year competition in 2025, competing against national winners from more than 50 countries.
Other category winners at the EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards included:
- Michael Walker of BlackBull Markets (Young Entrepreneur)
- Craig Piggott of Halter (Tech & Emerging Industries)
- Miria Flavell of HINE Collection (Product)
- Sam Bridgewater & Maia Royal of The Pure Food Co (Services)
In addition to the main awards, the Faull family received the Family Business Award for Excellence, celebrating their leadership in the dairy farming industry. The Social Impact Award was presented to the Ākina Foundation, an organisation focused on driving sustainable economic change in New Zealand.
