“Facing an unsettled economic climate, these organisations and leaders have navigated their way through an unpredictable landscape and emerged strong, and more adaptable than ever,” said Deloitte chief executive Mike Horne.
“The Deloitte Top 200 gives us an opportunity to celebrate them, their ongoing resilience, and agility to succeed as they create a lasting impact that will contribute to a better future for their communities.”
One emerging theme this year is the need for long-term thinking on how to deal with transforming technology, including the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI).
Alongside the issues that are front of mind for businesses when considering their strategies, like delivering stakeholder value, sustainability and climate, diversity and inclusion, and overall business culture, this new frontier must also be factored in as businesses look ahead.
NZME’s Fran O’Sullivan, judging convenor for the 34th year of the awards, said this year’s finalists came from an incredibly strong list of companies.
“The leadership that these companies have shown throughout difficult times is testament to the strength of the New Zealand business community,” O’Sullivan said.
“As we’ve reviewed the organisations and worked to narrow down a list of finalists, we’ve seen how clear strategies can deliver results for businesses who have continued to grow value and make an impact across their customers, employees, sustainability and the environment.”
Finalists for Chair of the Year include David Carter at Beca, Rob Hewlett at Silver Fern Farms and Scott St John at Fisher & Paykel Healthcare.
The Deloitte Top 200 Awards are held annually to recognise and celebrate outstanding individual and management team performances among New Zealand’s largest companies and trading organisations.
Together with O’Sullivan, this year’s Top 200 judging panel includes Jonathan Mason, Neil Paviour-Smith, Ross George, Liam Dann and Hinerangi Raumati-Tu’ua.
All the Deloitte Top 200 winners will be revealed at a gala event on Wednesday, December 6. The event will be live-streamed from 7pm on the NZ Herald website.