PRINZ announces new board appointments  

The Public Relations Institute of New Zealand (PRINZ) has confirmed the PRINZ board following elections held at the recent AGM, welcoming in a new chapter of advocacy and innovation for 2025.

Returning board member Denise Mackay (FPRINZ, APR) has been appointed as the new chair, with Jacquie Boer (FPRINZ, APR), Morwenna Grills (APR), Kelly Gunn and Eruini Paranihi joining as elected board members. PRINZ also welcomes Jackie Curtis (FPRINZ) and Alan McDonald back to the board as coopted members for this next term.

Denise Mackay brings a wealth of experience, having served as an elected board member since 2022 and a chief judge for the annual PRINZ Awards since 2021. She has significant experience leading strategic engagement and building relationships across government, the private sector and international organisations. She has exemplified her commitment to advancing the PR and communications profession and PRINZ is thrilled to have her guide the organisation through its next phase of growth and development.

Boer, Grills, Gunn and Paranihi each bring a unique set of skills and experience that will enrich the member support and advocacy efforts of PRINZ.

Jacquie Boer – Elected Member
Jacquie Boer is a PRINZ Fellow and has 30 years of experience in advertising, journalism and public relations. Currently, she is the principal of WPR where she delivers high-impact solutions for diverse clients across around Aotearoa with a focus on providing expert reputation management for clients in the infrastructure, forestry, and agriculture sectors.

Morwenna Grills – Elected Member
Morwenna Grills is an experienced communications and engagement leader and has gained her expertise through her work at the Department of Corrections NZ, New Zealand Law Society and New Zealand Parliament. She is a committed Te Reo Māori learner and a former journalist.

Kelly Gunn – Elected Member
Kelly Gunn is currently the general manger of communications at New Zealand Media & Entertainment (NZME). She is an award-winning communications specialist with almost 20  years of experience in PR, media and communications strategy.

Eruini Paranihi – Elected Member
Eruini Paranih is currently with Te Taura Whiri I te Reo Māori as the senior media and communications strategist. He has a vast background in broadcast journalism, producing and media relations.

Alan McDonald – Co-opted Member
Returning for another year, Alan McDonald is currently the head of advocacy, strategy and finance for the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA). This will be McDonald’s second term on the board.

Jackie Curtis – Co-opted Member
PRINZ Fellow Jackie Curtis is the managing partner at Cherry Red Consulting Ltd. She has volunteered her time to PRINZ as a co-opted board member for 2 years and is returning as the chair of the PRINZ College of Fellows.

This new board are already well into refreshing and refining the strategic direction of the national industry body. The board are committed to delivering value to PRINZ members through effective advocacy, creating connections and capability enhancement.

(L-R: Jackie Curtis (inserted), Eruini Paranihi, Kelly Gunn, Jacquie Boer, Denise Mackay, Front: Morwenna Grills and Alan McDonald)