Media statement
October 16, 2008
Talking Business
EMA Central has announced a strong line up of speakers for Thrive Wellington, the region’s biggest business event, which
is taking place at the TSB Bank Arena, Wellington on Thursday 13 November.
The spotlight in 2008 falls on some of the country’s most innovative companies and highest achievers.
Brent Hansen, a former Television New Zealand producer, worked his way to the rank of Chief Executive of MTV Networks
Europe. In that role, he headed a staff of 1,200 to prescribe the television music diet of around 120 million homes
across Europe. In 2003, Brent was promoted to the position of President of Creative and Editor-in-Chief of MTV Networks
International (MTVNI), and was responsible for overseeing creative and editorial endeavours for MTV's 97 international
channels, as well as branding, creative, music, programming and editorial output for all global initiatives led by
MTVNI.
Snowy Peak CEO, Peri Drysdale, is the founder of Untouched World, the first fashion company in the world to be
recognised by the United Nations for sustainability. In 1992 Peri was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire
(MBE) for services to New Zealand (Manufacturing and Export).
Adding a sporting perspective will be Martin Snedden - CEO Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd, and the recently retired gold
medal winners Georgina & Caroline Evers-Swindell.
Thrive Wellington guest speakers include: Brent Hansen - MTV Europe, Peri Drysdale - Untouched World; Peter Yealands -
Yealands Estate; Seeby Woodhouse - Internet entrepreneur; Sven Baker - designworks; Brian Sweeney - SweenyVesty; Gareth
Davies - Head of IBW and Welsh Rugby legend; Martin Snedden - CEO Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd; Roger Perry -Tower
Investments; Peter Tynan, Southern Cross Corporate Solutions; Georgina & Caroline Evers-Swindell; David Tua and Valerie Vili, plus a performance by Pearl.
According to Paul Winter, CEO of the Employers and Manufacturers Association (Central), Thrive Wellington is about
celebrating NZ business success and is an action packed experience with practical tips and proven ideas on how to grow a
business of any size.
“Delegates at this year’s event can expect to gain unique insights on the knowledge and expertise that transforms
national business triumphs into global successes.
“The speakers have a tremendous record of achievement and it is a great opportunity for business people to be inspired
and motivated, by some of New Zealand’s best in business.”
The event includes a tradeshow and post-event function. For details go to
www.thrivewellington.co.nz
ENDS