Back row: Afi Leuila, Hana Halalele, Dana Youngman and Dain Guttenbeil Front row: Tina Simcock, Arti Chand, Sam Sefuiva, CEO Mary Los'e and Chairman Paul Retimanu

The Pacific Business Trust has farewelled long serving board member Sam Sefuiva, who served for 38 years and welcomes four new board members this year: Arti Chand, Dain Guttenbeil, Dana Youngman and Luke Meredith.

Sam joined the PBT board when it was established in 1985 and has played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation into what it is today. Over the years his efforts, guidance and passion for the Pacific business community have been instrumental in fostering growth, innovation and prosperity for countless individuals and businesses.

Chairman Paul Retimanu says Mr Sefuiva’s departure, is the end of an era.

"Sam has been a cornerstone of the Pacific Business Trust for nearly four decades. His dedication and support have been invaluable in helping us achieve our mission. We are grateful for his leadership and vision and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” he says.

Mr Sefuiva has had a long service record in the public sector, having worked for a range of agencies over the past 40 years. He has fond memories of his time with PBT.

“When we first started PBT there were three of us working on getting the ideas going and over the years we’ve continued to build on our strengths. We have become much sharper in our focus and there is genuine hope that we can support our business community better,” says Mr Sefuiva.

He points to the appointment of four new board members, Arti Chand, Dain Guttenbeil, Dana Youngman and Luke Meredith, as an example of the progress that has been made.

“I'm confident for the future,” adds Mr Sefuiva.

“We are now poised to make an impact and bring significant improvements to our economy, enabling us to take ownership of our dreams and destiny. I express my sincere gratitude for the leadership of our chair and support. I know the team that’s been built will propel us to the next level. I wish our new board members the very best. It has been an absolute pleasure to be involved."

To read more about the new board members, click here.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact:

Mere Martin

Communications Lead

Pacific Business Trust

M: +64 21 627 725

E: mere.martin@pacificbusiness.co.nz