The Icehouse expands board to bolster NZ business growth

Pictured above: Mark Synnott.

The Icehouse has welcomed three influential business figures to its board. This move aligns with its mission to empower businesses and accelerate the country’s economic recovery.

Chair David Downs emphasises the importance of this strategic shift, stating, “Productive and well-managed businesses provide the energy that powers our economy.”

Joining the board are Duncan McFarlane, Founder of Indevin Group; Rewa Willis, Co-founder of Sherson Willis; and Mark Synnott, a property sector leader and Colliers Executive Chairman. These appointments complement an already formidable lineup that includes Steven Joyce, Nicole Buisson, Anne Catley, and Lindsay Zwart.

“Adding alumni of our programmes ensures we stay close to our core customers – founder-owned New Zealand businesses with an aspiration to grow,” Downs says.

McFarlane brings over 20 years of experience as the driving force behind Indevin Group, now producing 20 percent of New Zealand’s annual wine volume. An Icehouse Owner Manager Programme alumnus, he credited the organisation for shaping his personal and professional growth.

“I know that the skills, learnings and connections I acquired during that time were pivotal in both my personal growth and the growth of the Indevin business and strongly believe that business owners with an aspiration to grow would be well-served by experiencing what the Icehouse has to offer,” McFarlane says.

Willis, also an alumnus, highlighted her expertise in scaling businesses and strategic leadership.

“With nearly 20 years of experience running a business and as an alumni of the Owner Manager Programme, I understand the importance of managing growth and developing strong leadership. I look forward to contributing to the Icehouse, especially at such a pivotal time for New Zealand businesses,” says Willis.

Synnott, who transformed Colliers into a market leader, reinforced the vital role of continuous learning in economic success.

“Throughout my career, I have seen firsthand the benefits of continuous learning and strategic leadership training on a company’s bottom line. I’m excited to bring my experience to an organisation that empowers businesses through education and training,” adds Synnott.

The Icehouse, owned by the ICE Foundation, has supported over 5,000 SMEs through advisory services, coaching, and tailored growth programmes. Alumni businesses achieve an average annual revenue growth of 12 percent, significantly outpacing their peers. With its expanded leadership, the organisation aims to deepen its impact across sectors, fostering innovation and resilience in the SME sector.

This leadership enhancement positions The Icehouse to further its commitment to a thriving SME-driven economy, supported by partners like BNZ and the University of Auckland Business School.