Guiding tech firms without being a tech-head
I have been working with Callaghan Innovation since 2011, first as an innovation advisor and now as a Navigator. The support for technology innovation means we have been able to facilitate millions of dollars in grants and other support that have helped New Zealanders build out our national Research and Development ecosystem. Despite being tech-led, you don’t actually have to be a “tech head” to be a good Navigator.
My background in law and having run my own business means that I’ve got strong business growth knowledge as well expertise in governance and compliance. Many customers say that getting me to sanity check their business proposals is one of my core skills.
I take inspiration from Peter Beck who has not only created a completely new industry sector for this country, he and the Rocket Lab team are world-leaders and persistent innovators. Callaghan Innovation worked with them in the early days. Talking with interesting people, both customers and colleagues, is a constant and makes my job both interesting and varied.