Tim McCready

Tim McCready has built a career at the forefront of New Zealand’s global ambitions – connecting business, government and innovation to shape the nation’s future. As a strategist, commentator and facilitator, he’s a trusted voice in some of New Zealand’s most consequential initiatives in trade, investment and international engagement.

Through his consultancy, Tim has partnered with public and private sector organisations central to New Zealand’s economic future – helping them navigate complex challenges, unlock opportunities in international markets and position themselves for long-term impact.

“My strength lies in connecting people and ideas in ways that uncover opportunities others might overlook, and in helping New Zealand show up strongly on the world stage,” he says. “I often work in that complex grey space where business, innovation and diplomacy collide.”

Over the years, he has worked with the likes of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deloitte and Procter & Gamble. His projects have ranged from product development and capital raising to developing strategic plans, leading international collaborations and building enduring partnerships.

Tim has also played a pivotal role in some of the country’s most high-profile initiatives – including New Zealand’s hosting of the APEC CEO Summit, the annual China Business Summit and US Business Summit and the Prime Minister’s Infrastructure Investment Summit. A sought-after MC, he has led conversations with heads of government, ministers, ambassadors, CEOs and global thought leaders.

“New Zealand’s leadership is defined by our values, our innovation and the impact we choose to have globally,” he says. “Those principles underpin my work and keep me focused on projects that matter.”

Alongside his advisory work, Tim is a familiar voice in the media, contributing commentary on international trade, economic policy and New Zealand’s place in the world. He also serves as Convenor of Judges for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards.

One defining aspect of Tim’s journey has been saying “yes” to opportunities – especially those outside his comfort zone.

“I’ve built a career around connecting the dots between sectors, people and ideas,” he says. “Each time I’ve stepped into unfamiliar spaces, I’ve broadened my skills and strengthened my ability to contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s global aspirations.”

Tim graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Bioscience Enterprise. He credits the latter, a programme that combines science, business and law, as pivotal in shaping his future.

“I was in its inaugural year, and it set my career on its trajectory,” he says. “It built on the critical thinking skills I gained during my Bachelor of Science and added depth in areas such as commercialisation strategy, stakeholder engagement and working confidently across sectors. It also taught me the power of networks, which has been central to everything I’ve done since.”

Tim acknowledges Emeritus Professor Joerg Kistler, then director of the School of Biological Sciences and founder of the Bioscience Enterprise programme, as an enduring mentor who remains “generous with his time and encouragement”.

Beyond work, Tim’s curiosity about the world continues to shape his outlook. Travel has been central to his perspective – from driving 14,000 kilometres across Russia from Vladivostok to St Petersburg, to forging strong connections in Southeast Asia, a region he sees as increasingly vital to New Zealand’s future.

Today, Tim remains closely connected with the University of Auckland, contributing to alumni networks and collaborating with staff and students.

“The University remains a meaningful part of my professional ecosystem,” he says. “It fuels my commitment to lifelong learning.”