CEO Institute Member Stories

Member Case Study

The CEO Institute — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:02:30 GMT

As CEO of Waitomo Group, one of New Zealand’s largest independent fuel suppliers, Simon Parham leads with a clear focus on culture, simplicity, and innovation. With a proud Kiwi legacy dating back to 1947, Waitomo has grown to more than 110 Fuel Stops nationwide, serving both retail and commercial customers. In this case study, Simon shares how The CEO Institute has supported his leadership journey—offering fresh perspectives, a trusted peer network, and valuable strategic insights as he guides Waitomo through the evolving energy landscape.

Can you briefly describe your business and your role within the company?

Chair Case Study

The CEO Institute — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 02:06:15 GMT

Matt Blackwell brings over a decade of international leadership experience in financial markets to his role as Chair of Syndicates #142 (Auckland), and #144 (Waikato). Having served as both Managing Director and CEO, Matt understands firsthand the value of trusted peer support and shared learning. His approach centres on creating collaborative, high-trust environments where diverse perspectives fuel better decisions and stronger leadership. Matt’s case study explores his journey, the values that drive his work, and the impact he aims to create for CEOs navigating complex organisational challenges.

Can you share a brief overview of your professional background and what led you to become a Chair for the CEO Syndicate?

Chair Case Study

The CEO Institute — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 02:30:55 GMT

Tasso Papachatgis, Chair of Syndicates #40 and #78, brings a wealth of leadership experience across diverse industries to The CEO Institute. With a passion for mentoring senior leaders and fostering high-performing teams, Tasso transforms hard-earned knowledge into collective wisdom that empowers executives to “master their leadership craft.” His approach blends strategic insight, storytelling, and candid peer discussions to create a trusted environment where CEOs can find clarity, balance, and the courage to grow.

Can you share a brief overview of your professional background and what led you to become a Chair for the CEO Syndicate?

Chair Case Study

The CEO Institute — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 23:12:26 GMT

Matt Brown brings a wealth of experience as Chair of multiple CEO Syndicates at The CEO Institute. With a career spanning commerce, chartered accounting, and investment through his company Holus Capital, Matt has channelled his passion for business and people into guiding CEOs on their leadership journeys. For the past eight years, he has created an environment where leaders can collaborate, share diverse perspectives, and feel supported in the often-isolated role of CEO. His story reflects the positive energy, growth, and community that come from being part of The CEO Institute

Can you share a brief overview of your professional background and what led you to become a Chair for the CEO Syndicate?

Member Case Study

The CEO Institute — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 04:19:40 GMT

Meet Capt. Pappu Sastry, a global CEO and entrepreneur whose leadership journey spans continents and industries. As a member of The CEO Institute’s virtual CEO Syndicate group, Capt. Sastry connects monthly with fellow CEOs from across Australia and around the world to share ideas, challenge perspectives, and continuously refine his approach to leadership. In this case study, he reflects on the powerful role peer-to-peer support has played in navigating career transitions, launching ventures, and shaping a leadership style grounded in clarity and long-term vision.

Can you briefly describe your business and your role within the company?

Member Case Study

The CEO Institute — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 22:19:19 GMT

In this member case study, we speak with Amy Jansen, Head of Product at GlobeWest - a leading supplier of premium furniture and homewares across Australia. With responsibility for category management, product development, and procurement, Amy plays a critical role in aligning the brand’s design vision with evolving market trends. Since joining The CEO Institute’s Executive Leadership Syndicate in 2023, she has embraced the opportunity to grow beyond her functional expertise, gaining fresh perspectives from fellow leaders and contributing more broadly within her executive team. Her story highlights the value of peer support in navigating a fast-moving, design-driven industry.

Can you briefly describe your business and your role within the company?

Chair Case Study

The CEO Institute — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 22:57:34 GMT

In this Chair case study, we speak with Suzanne Whitmarsh, Chair of two Executive Leadership Syndicates in Melbourne. With just over 25 years since founding 1st Executive, a boutique executive search, interim management and business advisory firm, Suzanne brings deep expertise in leadership, talent strategy, commercial acumen and board-level decision-making. Her approach as a Chair is grounded in curiosity and a strong belief in the power of listening. Suzanne creates a space where senior leaders are encouraged to think more broadly, challenge their assumptions, and grow both personally and professionally. Through her guidance, members gain not just insight, but renewed confidence and clarity in their leadership journey and contribution.

Can you share a brief overview of your professional background and what led you to become a Chair for the CEO Syndicate?

Chair Case Study

The CEO Institute — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 05:55:44 GMT

In our latest Chair case study, we speak with Mitch Cuevas, an experienced executive and governance leader who brings a personal passion for CEO peer groups to his role as a Chair in New Zealand. Having held multiple CEO and board positions, Mitch understands firsthand the professional and personal value that comes from shared leadership dialogue. Drawn to The CEO Institute for its structured and supportive approach, he now facilitates a collaborative, open, and trusted environment where CEOs can speak candidly, listen deeply, and grow authentically.

Can you share a brief overview of your professional background and what led you to become a Chair for the CEO Syndicate?

Member Case Study

The CEO Institute — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:58:59 GMT

Today in our member case study, we speak with Katy Stark, CEO, director, and co-owner of InZone Industries Holdings Limited. Leading a vertically integrated business with over 170 staff across New Zealand, Katy is driven by purpose- improving the health, sustainability, and energy efficiency of homes. Since joining The CEO Institute in 2024, she’s embraced the value of peer insight, finding clarity and confidence in a role where the hardest truths are rarely spoken unless sought. Her story reflects the resilience and perspective needed to lead through New Zealand’s evolving construction landscape.

Can you briefly describe your business and your role within the company?

Chair Case Study

The CEO Institute — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 23:00:04 GMT

In our latest Chair case study, we speak with Gorana Saula. With over 25 years of international executive and board experience spanning defence, telecommunications, advanced manufacturing, and technology, Gorana now serves as a Non-Executive Director and business advisor. Her leadership style is grounded in empathy, resilience, and a belief in the power of shared learning. Having been both a CEO and a participant in multiple syndicates herself, Gorana understands the value of peer support and now brings that insight to her role as Chair of Syndicate 36. She creates a trusted, collaborative space where CEOs can challenge assumptions, grow in confidence, and support each other through every stage of their leadership journey.

Can you share a brief overview of your professional background and what led you to become a Chair for the CEO Syndicate?