Auckland Communities Foundation set to build on recent growth

A leadership change at Auckland Communities Foundation (ACF) paves the way for its continued growth as the premier donor service provider for private philanthropy in Auckland. Whilst the Board of ACF is sorry to lose outgoing CEO Hilary Sumpter, it is condfident that newly appointed Chief Executive, Dellwyn Stuart, will quickly build on the progress the organisation has made.

Dellwyn joins ACF on 1 August 2016, replacing Hilary who has led the foundation through a period of significant growth during the last three years. The new CEO has a thirty-year career spanning corporate and private business roles, the NFP sector and revitalising and leading a major grant-making foundation. Her most recent experience includes trustee roles for Philanthropy New Zealand, the Project Crimson Trust and Cure Kids, Executive Directorship with the Stevenson Foundation, and a year as Interim CEO at Cure Kids.

In appointing Dellwyn, the Board of ACF recognised her combination of leadership experience and expertise in bringing people and resources together to solve issues that affect the lives of others. Board Chairman Geoff Clews said that,

“Dellwyn will bring to the role very strong commercial and strategic skills, together with a high regard for authenticity, transparency and collaboration. She thrives on a fast pace and believes a strong community with shared goals are at the heart of success. She will build that both within the organisation and amongst our community of donors. The Board is really enthusiastic at her appointment and can’t wait to begin working with her.”

The appointment of a new CEO follows other positive changes at ACF, which increase its capacity and capability in the Auckland philanthropic sector. A new Philanthropy Services Manager, Lettie Bright has joined the team, having worked for nearly seven years in the relationships team at Oxfam New Zealand. Prior to that she worked at the Auckland University Business School whilst also studying.

Dellwyn Stuart and Lettie Bright join ACF at a period of immense growth. ACF has trebled in size over the past three years, with a focus on working with generous Aucklanders who, as donors, are keen to make a difference in their communities. Clews observed,

“Both Dellwyn and Lettie are a great fit for ACF. Our management team are looking forward to working with them to build on the growth of the past three years.”

On a personal note, outgoing CEO Hilary Sumpter said,

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at ACF and I’ve met some amazing people; especially our donors who care so much about Auckland, and allow us the privilege of helping them with their giving. One of the richest parts of my role has been introducing donors to charities that are really making a difference. Then I get to call the charity back and let them know they’re going to be given a donation by one of our donors – it’s a truly gratifying moment. That’s something that I am sure ACF’s new CEO will find equally gratifying. The Foundation is still maturing and it will be exciting to see it develop in the years to come, and have an increasing impact in the community.”

Dellwyn and the ACF team is supported by a board that cares deeply about Auckland and the communities foundation model. Chairman Geoff Clews said,

“Recent additions to the board are Pete Elderkin, Suneil Connor and Amokura Panoho. Pete is a General Manager/Chief Financial Officer with prior roles at Department of Conservation, NZ Football and MOTAT. Suneil is a senior manager at KPMG and specialises in rapidly growing businesses and Amokura comes from a background in Māori economic development with leadership roles for the Department of Labour and Auckland Council. They are already contributing greatly to ACF’s work.”

With these changes Auckland Communities Foundation is set to continue to make a lasting and positive contribution to the growth of private philanthropy in Auckland and will continue to champion long-term, sustainable progress in the key areas challenging our city.

ENDS

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