CIE staff

Meet the team behind the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Darsel has been foundational in establishing programmes at the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and in building Unleash Space from the ground up.

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An internationally recognised thought leader on entrepreneurship issues, Rod’s scholarly research is published in more than 100 journal articles and books.

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With experience across government, military, and private sectors, Kimberley has a passion for leveraging technology to secure Aotearoa’s competitive advantage.

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As our Hynds Fellow, Peter focuses on integrating entrepreneurship across curricular courses and programmes throughout the University.

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Marissa’s research and teaching focus on the roles of social innovation and social entrepreneurship in the transition to a more just and sustainable world.

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Sandy is passionate about creating experiences that inspire learning and growth. She enjoys helping others to flourish and realise their aspirations.

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With a background in event management and design, Nova is a familiar face across various CIE programmes and events.

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With a background in career coaching, adult education, and occupational therapy, Liudmyla is dedicated to fostering lifelong learning and innovation.

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With a background in supporting international and Māori students at AUT, she is skilled at encouraging growth and empowering the next generation.

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Naomi is passionate about community development and enabling the potential of others.

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Yifan is passionate about helping and supporting students, striving to create opportunities and resources for their growth.

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Jean enjoys working on operational and process improvements, administration and collaboration.

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Jorela is a passionate problem-solver with a penchant for anything nice and creative.

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Yaqi is a recent graduate of the University of Auckland Law School, bringing a strong foundation in law, sociology and economics.

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Sean is passionate about cultivating a new technological culture that brings together and encourages entrepreneurs and makers alike.

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Trevor is a passionate innovator dedicated to empowering young minds through hands-on learning in cutting-edge technologies.

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Guy is a Professional Teaching Fellow in Innovation and Strategy. He specialises in integrating digital technologies into teaching and learning, focusing on AI.

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Deb is a part-time senior lecturer at the University, designing and delivering some of CIE’s programmes that support innovators and start-up founders.

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Since moving to New Zealand from Scotland in 2005, CIE's Venture Lab and Researcher Hatchery Manager has been a driving force in the local start-up ecosystem.

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Ken is a seasoned mentor, investor, and entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in the New Zealand and international start-up ecosystems.

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Craig has been involved in the Auckland tech start-up community since joining Ice Angels in 2011.

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Anna has worked for companies from Spark to Les Mills International to start-ups of her own.

Learn more about Anna