Pasifika Business Network appoints inaugural executive officer

The Wellington Pasifika Business Network has appointed Frieda Crawford as its inaugural executive officer.

Crawford will lead the operational activities of the Network, including advocacy for Pasifika-owned and operated businesses in the Wellington region. She will also work collaboratively with the Wellington Chamber of Commerce to develop and grow services for the Network’s members.

Crawford has 24 years of experience in private sector senior-level management, business and governance. Since August 2021, she has been on the executive committee of the Pacifica Inc. Wellington Central branch, dedicated to providing opportunities for Pacific women to contribute to cultural, social, economic and political development in Aotearoa.

Pasifika Business Network chair Paul Retimanu said Crawford was an outstanding candidate with a wealth of business experience, having run her own international legal recruitment firm for a decade. “She is a born and bred Wellingtonian with a genuine commitment to her Pasifika heritage and culture, and the board is delighted she has agreed to help accelerate the growth of Pasifika businesses during this time of great change.”

Patron Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban said the executive officer role is critical to the long-term success of Pasifika businesses. “This appointment … will enable us to do more to improve outcomes for our people in Wellington and across the Pacific.”

Crawford said she was looking forward to making a difference for Pasifika. “I am excited about the purpose and authenticity of this role, where I will be able to utilise my skills and experience to make a positive impact.”

Wellington Chamber of Commerce CEO Simon Arcus said Crawford’s appointment would enable the Pasifika Network to deliver on its vision to build a better future for Pasifika businesses with the full support of the Chamber.

Earlier this year, the Wellington Pasifika Business Network and Te Awe Māori Business Network signed collaboration agreements with the Wellington Chamber of Commerce. Known as ‘The Power of Three’, the agreements will see the organisations share knowledge, experience, and resources that support businesses.

The Pasifika Business Network executive officer will be co-located in the Wellington Chamber’s offices.

This is supplied content and not commissioned or paid for by NBR.