Southland Businesswoman Appointed to Tertiary Education Commission Board

A Southland businesswoman who started her career as an auto-electrician has been appointed to the Board of the Tertiary Education Commission.

Tertiary Education Minister Penny Simmonds announced Michelle Findlater's appointment to the TEC Board, recognising her extensive experience in work-based training and the automotive industry.

Findlater now manages a large car dealership and has been actively involved in advisory and governance groups in the automotive industry at both regional and national levels. She has been a member of the Southland Chamber of Commerce since 2016.

Her expertise was recognised in 2025 when MITO awarded her the Janet Lane Scholarship to undertake studies with Harvard University.

"Michelle brings extensive knowledge of the work-based training system, particularly in the automotive industry," says Ms Simmonds. "She has already made important contributions to our work-based learning system. I am confident she will continue to do so as a member of the TEC's Board and make important contributions to its steering of the broader tertiary education system."

The minister highlighted the Government's Tertiary Education Strategy focus on ensuring all learners gain skills needed for strong careers.

"The Government's Tertiary Education Strategy, which the TEC gives effect to, has a strong focus on access, participation and achievement, to ensure all learners gain the skills needed to achieve strong careers. Michelle's knowledge and commitment will help the TEC deliver the workforces New Zealand needs to succeed. I am pleased to confirm her appointment to this role."

Findlater's appointment is for a three-year term starting 1 May 2026, following the resignation of Bharat Guha at the end of 2025 due to work commitments.

Findlater said she was honoured by the appointment and looked forward to contributing her experience to the tertiary education sector.

"I'm honoured to be appointed to the Board of the Tertiary Education Commission and grateful for the confidence shown by the Minister. I've seen first‑hand the impact of work‑based learning in building strong career pathways, particularly in applied and trade‑based environments. I look forward to contributing my industry and governance experience to support access, participation and outcomes across the tertiary system."