Kordia Group has appointed former CFO Shaun Rendell at its new CEO, following the recent death of the late CEO Scott Bartlett.
Rendell stepped in as interim CEO while Bartlett was on extended sick leave fighting a battle with cancer.
According to Kordia Group chair John Quirk, the search process was 'competitive' but Rendell stood out as the best choice.
"Shaun has been a highly valued member of the company for many years. He's done an exceptional job of stepping into the CEO role and guiding the business during what has been a somewhat challenging year," says Quirk.
"Despite these challenges, 2020 was one of the busiest years on record for Kordia Group, with the team working round the clock to ensure mission-critical technology services remained up-and-running during the lockdowns and that our customers were able to stay connected and safe online. We know that under Shaun's leadership the Group is well placed to continue on its growth trajectory and will be well placed to maximise on opportunities presented to us.
Quirk has also held leadership positions at Renaissance Group where he was CEO, and he has also worked with British Telecom and O2 in the UK.
"I'm delighted to be given the opportunity to lead this great business," says Rendell.
"We have an incredible team of smart, passionate people and their hard work is testament to the excellent growth we've been able to achieve, particularly in a year that has had many challenges. I'm looking forward to what 2021 brings and have no doubt the team will continue to deliver excellent results for our customers.
Scott Bartlett passed away in December last year after a battle with brain cancer. He was 40 years old.
In a statement from December, Rendell noted that Mr Bartlett was one of New Zealand's most respected business leaders.
"He had a brilliant mind and a natural ability to motivate the very best in the people around him.
"He was known for his big, bold, courageous ideas – brought to life through his passion and ability to make things happen. It's hard to imagine Kordia being the place it is today without Scott's relentless drive evolving the business beyond our comfort zone to new heights. He will be sorely missed by everyone here.
Quirk also noted, "Scott's life and achievements – particularly at such a young age – are a legacy to be admired and celebrated. His vision, his passion for life and creating a workplace where everyone had an opportunity to thrive are what made him such an incredible leader. He was always an advocate for diversity and was very proud of his work with the LGBTQ+ community. The New Zealand business community has lost an outstanding person.
