Our executive team

Marsha is a Canadian import, who now proudly also bears a New Zealand passport. She has an extensive background with more than 30 years in the health and disability sectors. She was involved in setting up the Family Options Respite programme through Starship Hospital, and the development of the Individualised Funding Framework at the Ministry of Health.

“I am passionate about Individualised Funding and the difference it can and is making in people’s lives across New Zealand. I look forward to leading Manawanui into the future, and assisting as many people as possible in their own journeys toward creating a future where they are in charge.”

Sean has approaching 30 years' experience in software development, business management and technology consulting. He has worked for well-known New Zealand organisations, European multi-nationals and co-founded technology start-ups across the Asia Pacific region, spending much of his career as an expat in Singapore, Thailand, India and China.

"Solving problems in a way that improves outcomes for both business and people is a focus for me. A big part of that is making sure we have a positive culture and empower people to get things done."

Ellen joined the Manawanui team in July 2024, bringing extensive experience in operations leadership in health and research environments in New Zealand and the USA. She leads the delivery of service for our customers, with a focus on meeting their needs effectively, consistently, and delightfully.

“I am passionate about improving quality of life for people in Aotearoa New Zealand, and empowering people to improve their health and overcome barriers they might encounter to living their best life. I am privileged to enjoy working in a whole organisation and team dedicated to doing that here at Manawanui.”

Neil joined the Manawanui team in November 2015 and brings many years of experience of delivering IT solutions and change for large organisations in the UK and Europe. He is now managing the products, platform and data team and is responsible for the development of our innovative technology solutions, such as the Client Web Portal and e-Mploy, as well as the day-to-day operations of our digital infrastructure.

“I am really excited to be working for an organisation that is making a difference for so many people. I am looking forward to the challenges ahead as we continue to innovate and expand our service offerings.”

While February 2023 is commonly known for the infamous Cyclone Gabrielle, Karen remembers it more positively as the month she joined Manawanui to head the Finance Team.  
With a broad background in large/ listed companies, she now enjoys working with a close-knit team driven by rewarding social outcomes.  

Karen has deep experience across diverse industries, but her more recent focus has been on aged care and high acuity care support.  This evolved naturally into an interest for the disability sector.

“I enjoy working across the business to ensure best financial practices so the wider business can remain focused on our deserving customers”