Chief Executive inspired by volunteering

8 June 2011

For immediate release

Chief Executive inspired by volunteering

One sure-fire way of getting to know an organisation is to experience every role on offer.

Nicola Sutton, new Chief Executive of English Language Partners New Zealand, has worked in a multitude of positions during her 18 years with the organisation.

“I see the Chief Executive role as a continuation of my work as a champion for the rights of migrants and refugees to learn English so they can participate fully in New Zealand life.” said Ms Sutton.

From a grassroots beginning as a volunteer in Auckland, Ms Sutton quickly developed a passion for working with migrants and refugees.

“Helping newcomers settle in well is at the heart of English Language Partners’ work. I was determined to learn everything I could about how the organisation functions.

Ms Sutton worked as a resource librarian, a finance manager, taught learners with very low English literacy and was also a centre coordinator in Christchurch for two years.

From 2002 to 2007 she took the helm as Chair of English Language Partners’ national Board.

Ms Sutton joined the national office as Operations Manager in 2008,before becoming Deputy Chief Executive in 2010.

Born in Reefton to parents who moved frequently around the country, Ms Sutton attended 10 schools in 10 years.

“Although I had fluent English, the process of settling into a new community and school required courage and built resilience, something many migrants and refugees have in abundance.

“Our strategy is focused on increasing migrants’ and refugees’ involvement in English Language Partners, and on partnering with like-minded organisations. I look forward to drawing on the enormous skill base of migrant and refugee communities so we continue to respond innovatively.

“The challenge of working to create opportunities for people who are new to the country, new to the way we do things here, is immensely exciting.”

Charles Berridge, English Language Partners’ Chair, said: “The Board is delighted Ms Sutton accepted the Chief Executive role. She clearly stood out as top candidate among the excellent applicants. Her understanding of the operating environment, outstanding commitment to the mission and ability to generate new strategic thinking is highly valued.”

Ms Sutton took up the Chief Executive position on 6 June. She succeeded Claire Szabó who has left to study at Harvard University.

English Language Partners works with adult migrants and refugees. A network of 22 centres offer English-language programmes and settlement support via a unique blend of professional teachers and trained volunteers.

The not-for-profit centres employ 280 staff and support 3,000 volunteers nationwide.

Approximately 8,000 learners access services each year.
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