The Trustees of the Pacific Business Trust (PBT) Board have today accepted the resignation of CEO Pelenato Sakalia who will step down in March 2022.

The Board wishes to acknowledge Pelenato’s outstanding contribution over the past three years to PBT, Pasifika’s economic development agency, and in particular for providing crucial support to Pasifika throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as delivering on important projects such as the transformation of the organisation’s programmes and services, the young Pasifika entrepreneurs’ programme HATCH, and the procurement support services programme.

PBT Chair, Tevita Funaki, on behalf of the Board recognises Pelenato’s outstanding leadership and shares “Pelenato’s vision, drive and performance focus combined with his commitment to supporting and growing our Pasifika business community has resulted in PBT being materially strengthened under his tenure. Whilst we are saddened to accept his resignation, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge his significant contribution and express our gratitude and appreciation for his tireless effort and leadership.”

Pelenato will remain at PBT as CEO until the end of March 2022 to ensure key projects are delivered, and PBT’s strong framework of programmes are safeguarded during the pandemic.

Taking this opportunity Pelenato wishes to thank the Board and PBT staff “It has been an honour to lead PBT and I am humbled by the commitment and hard work of our passionate team. They have tirelessly stood up new programmes and supported Pasifika in business and employment, which has led to a ten-fold growth of new clients in the past 12 months.”

Pelenato further adds “ I am very grateful to our people, stakeholders and partners, who have worked to build PBT into an economic development agency serving our Pacific entrepreneurs, sole traders and business community in Aotearoa New Zealand.”

PBT remains committed to continuity in serving our Pacific business community and will seek applications for Pelenato’s replacement in due course.

Malo e ngaue lelei, ‘ofa lahi atu.

The Pacific Business Trust Board of Trustees