Meet the Team

We are reliant on amazing people on our amazing board. Our dedicated board members are working with us voluntarily. We have a large breadth of experience of people who’s passion and commitment make a huge difference.


  • GENERAL MANAGER / BOARD MEMBER

    Emma comes from a management background that spans roles within many industries, from Technology through to Retail and Hospitality and running Associations. Running PR and Communications for large mutli-national companies has provided Emma with experience in telling a story and strengthening a brand. Emma started on the board of TANZ, and was appointed General Manager in 2023. As the General Manager of TANZ Emma has a focus on awareness and advocacy and uses her experience in running associations to strengthen the TS relationships and community within NZ and internationally

    Emma has a strong association to TS, with family members living with TS and has an understanding of what is needed to ensuis are we are able to meet the needs of our community.

    gm@tourettes.org.nz


  • BOARD MEMBER
    Rebecca, a seasoned marketing professional with a wealth of experience in senior leadership roles across large retail and manufacturing businesses in New Zealand, is poised to bring valuable expertise to the Tourette's Association of New Zealand (TANZ). Drawing from her background in marketing, advertising, and leadership, Rebecca is well-equipped to amplify TANZ's initiatives and enhance awareness.

    As a parent of a child with Tourette Syndrome, Rebecca possesses firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals and families living with this condition in New Zealand. This personal experience fuels her deep commitment to advocating for those affected by Tourette's and its comorbidities, driving her efforts towards a more inclusive and understanding society.

  • CHAIRPERSON

    John has a technology industry background based in New Zealand, Australia, Europe, and USA. He has over 25 years of experience in corporate board and senior executive leadership roles.

    As a passionate kiwi, John cares about helping to build a vibrant community which delivers better outcomes for all in New Zealand who are affected by Tourette's Syndrome.

    John joined the Tourette’s Association board in March 2023.

  • BOARD MEMBER

    Richard Cooper stands as a distinguished professional, rooted in the rich foundation of Maori and Pacific Studies, with a specialization in Maori Business and Resource Management. His journey is marked by a profound understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi, providing a unique lens through which he delves into the historical to modern nuances of Maori and Pacific development, commerce, and respective cultures.

    With a career spanning over two decades, Richard's expertise extends across diverse realms, ranging from Operations Management to IT Strategy Development. His multifaceted background encompasses 17 years in Senior Management, where he has showcased exceptional leadership acumen.

    What sets Richard apart is his unwavering commitment to the non-profit sector, where he has dedicated 16 years to organizations focused on Youth, Disabilities, and Health. In these spheres, he has become a beacon of management excellence, employing his wealth of experience to navigate the intricacies of these vital sectors.

    As a board member for TANZ, Richard Cooper emerges not only as a seasoned professional but as a bridge between cultural understanding, strategic vision, and compassionate leadership. His unique blend of skills, coupled with a passion for community well-being, positions him as an invaluable asset, a dynamic and empathetic leader.

  • TREASURER

    Julie has a background in finance, is a qualified accountant and has worked in professional practices, corporate and more recently as a financial adviser, coaching clients with their personal finances and investments.

    For the past 4- 9 years, she has also worked with two charitable organisations ( Community Budget Service and “Pay As You Feel” restaurants) in part-time and voluntary finance roles. Julie has a passion for using her skills to help others.

    In her spare time Julie enjoys walking, fitness, golf, cooking and being with family & friends.


  • BOARD MEMBER
    Shelley has a background in Marketing and Management roles in a wide range of businesses and industries. Amongst her other qualities, she has experience building the long-term value of brands, both internally and externally, and she understands the need to embrace both internal and external stakeholders; our community.

    For the past 6 years, however, she has been an owner /operator of her own business.

    Shelley joined the board in 2022, her link to the Tourette world is through her son, who was diagnosed with TS at age 4.