PRINZ welcomes new Chief Executive

Susanne Martin has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand Te Pūtahi Whakakakau Tūmatanui o Aotearoa (PRINZ) starting from September 1st.

PRINZ is the industry body for public relations and communication management professionals in Aotearoa.

The organisation’s current Chief Executive, Elaine Koller, steps down at the end of August after seven years in the role.

Martin has an extensive background in executive roles spanning commercial, charity, vocational education and the not-for-profit sectors. Her most recent role was as General Manager – Development and Engagement for Ronald McDonald House Charites NZ.

“Susanne’s experience in stakeholder engagement and advocacy across industry and government bodies, together with her proven skills in organisational strategy, communications and revenue growth initiatives were a few of the skills the Board was looking to secure in our next leader,” Heather Claycomb, PRINZ Chair says.

Martin says she is excited about the challenges of taking on the chief executive position.

“PRINZ holds a special role in the public relations and communications management landscape in New Zealand. I look forward to meeting with members and regional divisions around the country to build on the great work achieved and deliver high calibre outcomes for the institute and its members.

“PRINZ is in a strong position to capitalise on the many opportunities presenting the current industry and I look forward to helping the organisation expand its reach and influence. Following the challenges of the last few Covid-impacted years, I feel privileged to lead the team to realise the Board’s vision for the next steps in the institute’s journey – one that’s already spanned nearly 50 years.”

Claycomb recognised Elaine Koller’s significant impact on the PRINZ organisation during her seven-year tenure.

“Elaine has left a positive mark on PRINZ, one that will be felt for many years to come. Every aspect of the organisation has gone from strength to strength under her leadership including our continuing professional development programme and the highly-respected PRINZ Awards. The board and members are grateful for her eternal optimism, her passion for the industry, her ability to mentor and lead a young team and the contribution she has made to PRINZ and to our profession.”