One New Zealand names Nick Judd as chief executive

One New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Jason Paris is stepping down, and Board Chair Phillippa Harford has appointed Chief Financial Officer Nick Judd as his successor.

Paris told staff of his decision at the company's annual Legends conference in Auckland before Harford announced Judd's appointment. The change comes after nearly eight years in the top role.

The board accepted Paris's decision as the telecommunications company begins a handover to its finance chief. Judd will move into the Chief Executive Officer role in an internal succession appointment.

During Paris's tenure, One New Zealand separated from Vodafone Group ownership and adopted the One New Zealand brand. It also launched a nationwide satellite-to-mobile service, which it described as the first of its kind globally.

The business also increased cash generation and delivered shareholder returns during that period. The board said the company was leaving the Paris era with its strategy established and management depth in place.

Internal successor

Judd is Chief Financial Officer at One New Zealand and previously held the same role at Tourism Holdings. Before that, he spent more than 15 years at Air New Zealand in New Zealand and overseas in strategy, sales and growth roles.

His appointment gives One New Zealand a chief executive already familiar with the company's operations and industry setting. Harford said that background was important for the group's next phase.

In written remarks on his departure, Paris endorsed the appointment.

"Leading One New Zealand has been the privilege of my career. The people here are simply extraordinary, and I'll miss working alongside them every day. There's never a perfect time to hand over the reins, but after nearly eight years, with the business performing strongly and our strategy firmly in place, this feels like the right time.

"I'm absolutely delighted the Board has appointed Nick. He's an outstanding leader, and I know he'll do a fantastic job leading One New Zealand into its next chapter.

"As for me, I'm looking forward to a break before taking on my next challenge. I don't know exactly what that'll be yet, but I know it'll be exciting," said Jason Paris, Chief Executive Officer at One New Zealand.

Board view

Harford said the board believed Judd's experience across finance, strategy, operations, sales and commercial work made him the right choice for the top job. She said he also had a strong understanding of both the company and the wider telecommunications market.

One New Zealand did not provide further details on the transition timetable. The board said it would support Judd as he takes over and would also recognise Paris's contribution to the business.

Paris has been one of the more visible corporate leaders in New Zealand's telecommunications sector during his time in the role. His departure marks a leadership shift at one of the country's largest mobile and broadband providers, with Judd set to lead the next stage of the company's development.