The EEA team are a small group of dedicated individuals, led by a Chief Executive, working to support the smooth and effective operation of the business. The team are based in Wellington and Christchurch.
Nicki Sutherland (Chief Executive)
Nicki is a seasoned energy practitioner, with more than 20 years’ experience in the sector. She has worked for retailers, generators, manufacturers, transport operators, transmission operators, developers and regulators – and before this with local government and their communities.
Most recently, Nicki was GM Investment and Engagement at EECA where she led a team helping New Zealand businesses successfully navigate the transition to clean and clever energy use.
Prior to that she led MBIE’s Provincial Development Unit, responsible for an investment portfolio worth over $2.5 billion, delivering innovative investment programs and support to help Aotearoa’s regions prosper and thrive.
Nicki joined the EEA at the start of September 2024 as Chief Executive.
Hayley Head – Principal Advisor, Health and Safety, Electricity Engineers' Association
Hayley Head is an accomplished professional in the electricity supply industry, starting her career as an apprentice electrician with Connetics in 1995. With a Diploma in Electrical Engineering, a Diploma in Health and Safety, and a Certificate in Adult Teaching and Learning, she has developed a robust skill set over the years.
From 2004 to 2022, Hayley worked at Orion, where she initially joined as a cadet and later transitioned to the training team. She successfully managed the training team and also took on the role of relief network controller, demonstrating her versatility and leadership capabilities. Her commitment to safety and operational excellence is evident through her involvement in the Safety Standards and Procedures Group and her role as Chair of the Collective Network Operations Group.
Currently, Hayley serves as the Principal Advisor for Health and Safety, where she enjoys using her combined technical, safety, and training knowledge to raise the bar across the industry. A skilled connector of people, she is dedicated to fostering collaboration and sharing expertise, making her a valued leader and colleague in the field.
Tracy Hobbs – Business Services Manager, Electricity Engineers' Association
Tracy began with the EEA in 2007 as Executive Assistant. Her role has evolved over the years to the one she holds today, supporting members, managing the finances, delivering the annual conference and ensuring the team have what they need to do their jobs.
Prior to joining the EEA, Tracy held a number of roles across government, primarily with the predecessor to the Ministry of Social Development, and with the New Zealand Army recruitment team.
Stuart Johnston – Principal Advisor Engineering and Technical, Electricity Engineers' Association
Stuart Johnston is a passionate energy and environmental thought leader with over 25 years’ experience spanning public and private sector organisations in Australia and internationally.
His expertise includes a thorough understanding of the complexities of national policy development to aid the energy transition coupled with extensive experience in managing operational activities including asset management, OHSE systems, and auditing and compliance activities for electricity network companies. Most recently Stuart has been working on Australia’s hydrogen initiatives and facilitating research between industry and research bodies across Australia on network transformation.
Stuart has supported Australia’s work on Network Transformation, including engaging across all aspects of the industry adapting to new technologies, adjusting to changes in customer behaviour, and deploying innovative models to achieve effective improvements and enable systemic change. Stuart has worked for Energy Networks Australia and Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).
Suzanne Thurlow – Administrator, Electricity Engineers' Association
Suzanne joined the EEA team in 2015 in the role of Administrator.
Her role is varied, administration support for our team, supporting meeting management to enable liaison with Members, industry groups, government agencies and other stakeholders, event co-ordination including workshops / courses along with membership administration. She also maintains and updates our suite of guides and technical notes, and supports the Executive Committee.
Before joining the EEA, Suzanne spent a number of years with a Crown entity, employed shortly after its inception she enjoyed the challenge of being part of a new establishment and set up.