National Office Staff
Executive Director - Tess Casey
I’m delighted to have recently joined NZAC as Executive Director. I have worked in the community and social services sector for most of my career, mainly for peak body and membership organisations. My background is in communications but I have worked as a Chief Executive for the past 14 years, most recently for Neighbourhood Support NZ and Inclusive NZ (a peak body in the disability sector).
I also wear a few other hats. I am on the Executive Committee of Community Networks Aotearoa, a board member of Interactionz (a social enterprise working with disabled people in Waikato) and an Executive Judge for New Zealander of the Year. I have a strong interest in inclusion and community engagement and enjoy roles focused on positive change.
Although born and raised in New Plymouth, I have lived in Wellington for the past 25 years. In my spare time I love to spend time with my husband and family (I am mum to 3 adult sons) and I’m an avid reader, writer, music listener, walker and Pilates practitioner.
Acting Operations Manager – Maria Sykes
I’m originally from Amanzimtoti, South Africa and moved to NZ about 15 years ago.
working within Administration, I'm passionate about helping people and looking after people. I started my journey in South Africa working in banks and then a private company. In NZ I strengthened my knowledge through working in Industry Training Organisations, Ministry of Health and the Tertiary Education Commission.
Office Administrator - Jaz Perry
I’ve lived in Wellington for most of my life, though I was born in Malaysia and try to implement that culture into everyday life. When I’m not working I’m either eating curry, playing music or practising art. I’m fuelled by coffee and inspirational quotes, hoping that one day I can inspire others too.
Membership Manager - Dana Mackay
I have lived in Wellington for 10 years but grew up in Waitarere Beach, a little village north of Levin. On the weekends you will find me at Waitarere beach gardening or going for a swim with my family. I am a baking enthusiast (and definitely have the best vanilla cake recipe). I am passionate about people and enjoy watching them grow in their work and life.
Membership Administrator - Debbie North
I previously worked at NZAC for 7 years and am now back as the Membership Administrator part-time. I live up on the Kapiti Coast and have 3 adorable grandchildren; 6, 7, and 2. When they stay we love to swim, go to the park, paint our nails, and do some baking and granny gets a massage for $2. I have a black lab (Jack) who still likes to run away with shoes and the remote at age 7! But he's very special. We have an amazing vege garden and this year I made my first batch of homemade tomato sauce and relish. I am enjoying settling back into NZAC.
Professional Development Manager- Millie Baker
Professional Development Administrator – Jo McNab
Ko Johannah Te Atai Rangi Kahu toku ingoa. Ko Ngāti Raukawa te iwi, ko Ōhinepuhiawe te hapū, ko Parewahawaha te marae.
I have been with NZAC since 2014 as an administrator and recently have had the exciting opportunity to extend my role into the Professional Development area. Working here has been an integral part of my life and I have enjoyed developing enriching relationships with many of our Kaiwhiriwhiri whanau over the years. I live in Porirua with my tāne Alan and my young tama Conor, who keeps my days filled with the joys (and struggles!) of parenting. I have a background in graphic design which I have brought into my role, having a hand in the design of newsletters, practising certificates, conference branding and more... an extremely fulfilling part of my role! My passions are art, illustration, design and technology.
Ethics Secretary - Abi Buchhalter
I am one of the Ethics Secretaries working for NZAC. I worked in the Ethics Office previously and returned to re-join the team in April 2022. I am an American who has been in New Zealand for quite a few years now, and I love living in the Wellington region. I have a dog, cat and new puppy, and spend most of my free time reading (support your local library!), doing sudoku, walking the dogs, baking, and drinking too much tea! I love working in the Ethics Office because I think the complaints process is an important part of helping people feel heard and supporting counsellors in their understanding of the Code of Ethics in practice.
Ethics Secretary - Melanie Roundill
I work alongside Abi as an Ethics Secretary. I am currently pursuing a master's degree, so my free time is quite limited! However, when I do have some time on my hands I enjoy gardening, tending to my extensive indoor plant collection, walking my dog, and consuming the standard Wellingtonian level of coffee. I look forward to chatting with some of you about ethics!