Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has confirmed the appointment of Brendon Barnes as an independent director to the board of the Hawke’s Bay Regional Investment Company Limited (HBRIC).

He brings more than two decades of experience in investment management and infrastructure, including his recent tenure as Chief Investment Officer of Quayside Holdings Limited, the investment arm of Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Chair Hinewai Ormsby welcomed the appointment.

“Brendon’s depth of experience across public and private investment, governance, and strategic infrastructure makes him a strong addition to the HBRIC board. His appointment supports our commitment to robust, professional management of the region’s investment assets.”

The appointment follows a formal recruitment process led by the HBRC Councillor Appointments Committee, supported by independent recruitment specialists Populous People. A total of 54 applications were received, including a strong pool of local candidates.

Mr Barnes has held senior roles in global institutions including the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Macquarie Group. He has served on the boards of companies spanning forestry, biotechnology, diagnostics, and agribusiness. He holds qualifications in accounting and commercial law, and is a graduate of the Institute of Directors’ Company Directors’ Course.

Mr Barnes will join the board at a time of strategic evolution for HBRIC, which manages Council’s group investment portfolio including its majority shareholding in Napier Port.

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