Business Mentors New Zealand has announced that Ray Schofield, Chief Executive of 13 years, is shortly to retire.

Since his appointment in 2002 Ray has led the volunteer mentoring organisation to its current position as a key service provider for the SME sector and a significant contributor to regional and national economic development.

Director of Business Mentors New Zealand, Geoff Vazey, said “Ray has made a significant contribution to the growth and success of our business mentoring programmes and the value they deliver for business owners across New Zealand.”

“Today, nearly 2,000 volunteer mentors give their time, skills and experience to the community and help local business people to succeed.”

“Ray has passionately steered Business Mentors and been instrumental in engaging support for our programmes from private sector sponsors and central and local Government.”

“The Start-up and Community Mentors programmes are recent examples of innovation under Ray’s leadership.”

Lisa Ford has been appointed to the role of General Manager to lead Business Mentors forward in the changing marketplace. 

“The board is delighted to make this internal appointment to the lead role knowing Lisa’s experience as National Agency Manager means the organisation will be in very capable hands,” said Vazey.