David Christiansen has taken over the role of Executive Officer of Momentum Waikato. His appointment was announced by the community foundation’s board today.
Christiansen steps into the space left by departed Chief Executive Officer Simon Wickham, although in a re-defined and part-time role.
Born and educated in Hamilton, David Christiansen has lived his whole life here or nearby in the Waikato.
“I have paddled the mighty awa, climbed most of the major maunga and holidayed at the beaches on both coasts – the Waikato really is my home,” says David.
“After a long career in education at both The University of Waikato and Wintec-Te Pūkenga, I am delighted to now be part of ‘Team Momentum’, as we connect, enable and partner with generous and committed locals across the region.”
Momentum Waikato Chair Neil Richardson is looking forward to working with David Christiansen as the community foundation continues to move forward into its next phase of development.
“It is a pleasure to welcome David to Momentum Waikato,” says Richardson. “He will positively add to both our journey and our legacy.
“With the Waikato Regional Theatre project in its final leg, it’s exciting to see Momentum’s path ahead.
“The organisation has been ‘flattened’, allowing us to both better manage costs and employ a wider set of skills through highly committed part-time permanent people,” Neil Richardson said.
The new CEO, David Christiansen is keen to make Waikato a better place for generations to come.
“It is a real privilege to be leading an amazing group of people dedicated to delivering real, impactful benefit for this region and its communities,” he says.
“I look forward to meeting more of Momentum’s generous and community minded supporters. Together, let’s make the Waikato an even better place to live, work and play, for generations to come.”
Momentum Waikato is a community foundation that enables generous people to grow their charitable donations and continue their giving forever through invested endowment funds.
