The team behind New Zealand’s independent advisers
Across New Zealand, Wealthpoint focuses on helping advisers, so they can focus on helping you. We deliver leading products, regulatory compliance guidance, and back-office support.
Sydnee Taylor, Amicus
We're on a mission to build a more financially secure NZ, powered by independent advisers
“I’ve been leading Wealthpoint since it was established in 2019. We have built what we believe to be New Zealand's preeminent independent financial adviser network. Our advisers are committed to providing high quality, trusted advice to clients. Outside of work, I'm a keen sailor and have competed in national and international events. Sailing has taught me a lot about focus, balance and preparation - qualities I bring to leading Wealthpoint.”
Simon Manning
Chief Executive
“I’m proud of the community we’ve built at Wealthpoint and the support we give members to power their business their way.”
Board of Directors
Wealthpoint Limited is governed by a highly experienced Board of Directors, each bringing deep industry knowledge and governance expertise to support the strategic direction and long-term success of the business. The Board’s role is to provide effective oversight, ensure robust governance practices, and uphold the interests of our shareholders and advisers.
Since beginning his financial services career in 1985, Nigel has held a variety of industry management roles and became a Financial Advisor in 2003. As Chairperson, he brings deep industry experience and leadership to guide Wealthpoint’s strategic direction. Nigel holds and MBA from the University of Canterbury, is an Associate of the Insurance Institute of New Zealand and has completed a series of IOD training in governance.
Brendon White
Adviser Director | Non-Executive
With 27 years of experience in New Zealand’s financial services sector, Brendon is both a Director and practising Financial Adviser at Certus Financial Group. He specialises in investment planning, retirement planning and KiwiSaver, contributing deep technical expertise to Wealthpoint. His contributions support Wealthpoint’s focus on adviser success and the delivery of high-quality client outcomes.
Melissa is a Director and Shareholder of Mainland Insurance, Mortgages & Investments, based in Timaru, where she has co-led the business since 2007. She became a registered financial adviser in 2020 and holds the New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5), with a specialisation in life and health insurance. She is currently completing the Investment Strand of the qualification through Open Polytechnic. Melissa brings a practitioner’s lens to the Board, informed by over 15 years of hands-on experience with clients and staff in a growing regional advice business. She has completed the Mayfield Governance Development Programme, further enhancing her governance capability. Her contribution to Wealthpoint is grounded in practical insight, strong values, and a commitment to the sustainability and success of member firms.
Scott holds conjoint degrees in Law and Commerce from the University of Auckland, graduating in 2004. He began his professional career as a solicitor at one of New Zealand’s leading law firms before moving into financial services in 2008. As a third-generation financial adviser, Scott has been deeply immersed in the industry throughout his life. Based in the Bay of Plenty, Scott operates his own financial advisory business and is fully qualified across all four pillars of financial advice. He has been a Director of Wealthpoint since its foundation in 2019, has completed Institute of Directors’ Governance Programmes and contributes substantial legal and financial acumen to the Board.
Nick has over a decade of experience in the financial services sector, specialising in business risk and employee benefits advice. Nick leads a specialist team focused on delivering strategic advice that helps organisations reduce risk, retain talent and build resilient workplaces. Under his leadership, Amicus has been recognised nationally, winning Wealthpoint Adviser Business of the Year 2024, while Nick himself received the title of Wealthpoint Adviser of the Year 2024. Nick is recognised for his clear, client-focused communication and ability to simplify complex challenges. He brings governance experience, proven business acumen, and a strong alignment with industry standards and values, particularly around trusted client relationships and transparent communication. He is committed to supporting the long-term sustainability and success of Wealthpoint and its member firms through strong governance, collaboration, and adviser-focused outcomes.
Peter enjoyed a 35-year career practising commercial law, including over 25 years as partner at Simpson Grierson. Now retired from legal practice, he offers Wealthpoint vital independent oversight and counsel grounded in longstanding corporate governance experience.
Simon has served as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Wealthpoint since its inception in early 2019. He brings a strong track record of leadership and commercial acumen, underpinned by deep expertise in the financial services sector. Simon is known for his strategic approach to distribution management and his commitment to building sustainable, long-term business growth. Under his leadership, Wealthpoint has continued to expand and strengthen its nationwide adviser network. He plays a key role in fostering cohesion across the group, drawing on extensive executive and governance experience gained prior to Wealthpoint’s formation.
Leadership Team
Wealthpoint’s head office is located in Parnell, Auckland. The business has a highly experienced management team, most of whom have operated in the financial services industry for many years.
Simon has been the CEO and a Director of Wealthpoint since the company formed in early 2019. Prior to that, Simon was the CEO of the adviser association that Wealthpoint was formed from. Simon has worked in the financial services industry for nearly 35 years and is highly experienced across product, distribution, operations and strategy roles. His previous corporate roles include with AMP as General Manager Life Insurance and General Manager Distribution Operations. Outside of work, Simon is an accomplished sailor who has competed in many national and international events in a range of classes. His lifelong interest in the marine industry has also led to him owning a boat painting and marine services business, Boatspray Ltd since 2008.
Mark was heavily involved in the establishment of Wealthpoint and helps shape the strategic direction of the business with the CEO, Board and Leadership Team. He has a broad set of responsibilities across the business including delivery of strategic projects and developing new member services to support network growth. He also leads the Data and Technology team and the Marketing and Communications team. Mark has worked in the financial services industry for over 20 years. He has held senior and executive roles in several large insurance companies and holds the New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5) qualification in Life, Disability and Health Insurance. He is a keen runner, skier and gets a lot of enjoyment from mucking around with his classic Land Rover.
Louise is responsible for Wealthpoint’s adviser and staff Professional Development, including the provision of recruitment and adviser support to member businesses. Louise has held a number of senior Learning and Professional Development roles including with AMP and most recently where she was Head of Learning and Professional Development for KPMG. Louise moved to New Zealand from Scotland in 2005 and is proud to be raising two kiwi kids, who are her main source of fun outside of work. Outside of work, Simon is an accomplished sailor who has competed in many national and international events in a range of classes. His lifelong interest in the marine industry has also led to him owning a boat painting and marine services business, Boatspray Ltd since 2008.
Arna is responsible for overseeing Wealthpoint’s financial infrastructure including budgeting, forecasting, member remuneration processes and reporting. Arna is a Chartered Accountant and experienced financial services professional who has previously spent time as an auditor and a Financial Controller. Arna has held senior financial management roles within the industry, including most recently with Fidelity Life. Two active boys mean spare time is precious and often spent either reading or on arts and crafts, particularly designing greeting cards. Overseas travel is a favoured activity with Israel a past highlight and Italy planned for the future.
Neil Rossouw is a seasoned financial adviser with almost 2 decades of experience in the General Insurance industry and known for his expertise in navigating the complex landscape of risk management and insurance solutions. As the Head of General Insurance, Neil is responsible for leading the dynamic team in our brokerage, Wealthpoint General Insurance, and managing our direct agency relationships with key insurance partners. Outside of the office, Neil is an avid advocate for work-life balance, spending most of his time with his wife and two kids. Whether hiking scenic trails, camping, mountain biking, playing a round of golf, he values the experiences that recharge his creativity and bring a fresh perspective to his professional endeavours.
Jack is an experienced lawyer and compliance professional having worked in a wide range of senior legal roles, both in NZ, UK and the Middle East. Jack has worked across many industries, including telecommunications, healthcare and financial services. Prior to joining Wealthpoint, Jack’s most recent role was at a large NZ bank. When not busy with his young family, Jack is a keen follower of cricket and football and heads to the mountains for some ski touring whenever he can (which, sadly, isn’t very often).
Andrew has 30 years’ experience as a funds manager and director. He started his career in London working for three international funds management firms – including Guinness Flight, an early-stage funds management company where he was Head of Global Equities (that he helped grow eventually culminating in a sale to Ninety-One). He also gained institutional experience at Newton Investment Management, and started his own investment company in New Zealand. Andrew is Head of Investments at Wealthpoint, leading the investment team. He is responsible for the DIMs portfolios and is Chairman of the Investment Committee. Andrew is committed to an institutional approach to Wealthpoint’s funds management. Outside of work, Andrew spends his weekends farming finger limes on Waiheke Island, and enjoys travelling and piano. He advocates for improved public transport in NZ, and ferry/e-scooters to work in preference to using a private vehicle.
Wealthpoint staff
Since moving to New Zealand in 2007 Kerry has worked in the financial services industry, having worked in compliance for over 10 years. Prior to joining Wealthpoint, Kerry was the Compliance Manager at JBWere. Kerry enjoys spending time with her two teenage children and catching up with friends. She also has a love of animals, having owned a pet shop in South Africa before moving to New Zealand.
Robbie assists advisers to give suitable advice whilst meeting their relevant duties and obligations. Prior to joining Wealthpoint, Robbie was a personal risk insurance adviser and also previously ran a tourism company. He has completed Financial Services Level 5 in Lending, General Insurance, Investments, and Health and Life, and holds a bachelor’s degree in finance. He has passed his CFA Level II exam. Robbie loves football and has been participating in the local social league for many years in Auckland. In total, he has won three championships, and he says he will continue to train hard so he can fulfil his Premier League dreams.
Alistair is responsible for investment operations, market updates, and researching funds on Wealthpoint’s approved product list that are not covered by Makao, including diversified funds, superannuation, QROPS, and the Lifetime Retirement Income fund. He has extensive experience in investment management, having worked at NZX and previously at Wealthpoint before spending two years in London as a Business Development Manager at Atlantic House Investments. In that role, he specialised in client relations and portfolio analysis, providing tailored investment solutions in derivatives and quantitative strategies for institutional clients. Alistair holds a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Finance and Economics, and is a candidate for Level III of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program.
Stella Cheung joined Wealthpoint as the Investment Operations Manager in mid-December 2022. Stella has a Bachelor of Commerce degree and a Bachelor of Property degree from the University of Auckland, NZ, and a Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) from the University of London, UK. After graduating from the University of Auckland, she worked in Hong Kong and Tokyo for HSBC and DBS (Development Bank of Singapore) for over 20 years, covering investment (securities and futures) broking and wealth management, primarily private banking and the high-net-worth client segment. She relocated back to Auckland in the second half of 2021. Before joining Wealthpoint, Stella joined Tiger Brokers New Zealand (a NASDAQ-listed global online broker) in 4Q 2021 as their Market and Trade Surveillance Manager.
Evan is responsible for Life & Health Insurance and Lending at Wealthpoint. This includes management of supplier relationships, adviser support and advocacy, assistance with technical issues, and growing the Wealthpoint Life & Health Insurance and Lending propositions. After initially working in the Health industry, Evan started working in the Insurance and Financial Services Industry 20 years ago. He has held various roles across the industry including Underwriting, Claims, Distribution, and Strategic Account Management. When Evan is not spending time with his wife and two daughters, he likes to play Touch Rugby, participate in Pub Quizzes and follow whatever sport is in season (in particular NFL, Rugby and League).
Tracie’s role is to provide support to Wealthpoint members by implementing systems automations and improvements. Tracie’s Information Technology career spans 37 years and includes over 20 years in the financial sector. After 23 years as an independent IT contractor and software developer, Tracie has found a permanent home with the Wealthpoint team. Raising four daughters has kept Tracie entertained over the years as they enjoy her passion for the arts and all things performance. She enjoys spending downtime with her family, which also includes their three dogs and cat.
An Engineer at heart, Gavin has built a career applying new technology, knowledge, and practices to deliver solutions for the businesses he works with. He possesses a wide skillset acquired from delivering Cloud SaaS, Mobile, and eCommerce B2C solutions. A particular highlight for Gavin has been his extensive experience working with NZ Financial Adviser businesses, where he delivered technology solutions to support their sales, compliance, and operational targets. Outside of work, when he is not running after his two daughters, you’ll find him enjoying the outdoors of West Auckland, usually training for a multi-sport event that he completes at a gentlemanly pace.
Gillian’s role ensures all adviser businesses’ remuneration is processed seamlessly, and business and adviser movements are completed with ease, working closely with businesses to provide them the best possible service. She has many years’ experience working in similar adviser support roles, including a long stint with a large life insurer. Born in South Africa, Gillian and her family now call New Zealand home and enjoy the travelling and outdoor opportunities that exist here. Gillian also restores antique furniture in her spare time.
Nelia ensures all the finance processes are completed, including month and year-end reporting, day-to-day processing and everything in between. Reporting to and working closely with the Head of Finance, Nelia will be working on audits, reporting, budgeting, receipting or any other money-related matter depending on what is happening at that point in time.
Shanthi ensures all adviser businesses’ remuneration is processed seamlessly and supports business and adviser movements, working closely with businesses to provide them the best possible service. Since coming to NZ she has many years’ experience working in accounts roles, and most recently in a similar adviser support role with a large life insurer. Born in India, Shanthi practiced law prior to moving to NZ. She enjoys singing and dancing and is a fabulous cook.
As Wealthpoint’s Events Manager, Tanya plans and manages all our major events. This includes negotiating contracts with event suppliers, assisting with event marketing, monitoring timeframes and budgets, networking and delivering on the event brief objectives. Tanya has extensive knowledge in event management with over 25 years of experience, having worked in the oil & gas, medical and financial services industries. Based in Wellington, Tanya enjoys walking the dog, going to the gym, swimming and catching up with friends.
Claire’s role supports day-to-day operations in the general insurance team. Claire enjoys the variety in her role, be it working directly with clients or determining best practice for processing tasks. Claire has a responsive approach to understanding people and their requirements. Claire graduated from Victoria University with a double major in education and psychology and holds a Master of Arts from Massey University. She has worked in the health technology industry for many years prior to joining Wealthpoint. Outside of Wealthpoint, Claire enjoys spending time with her family and is a keen runner and tramper.
As a seasoned professional in the insurance industry, I’ve taken on various roles, from customer service to AMP personal lines underwriting, office management, and broker support. My focus has always been on delivering a seamless experience and top-notch customer service. I hold a Level 5 certificate in general insurance, which demonstrates my expertise in the field. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my daughter, husband, and being part of my lively and close-knit family. In my leisure time, I enjoy staying active through a variety of sports activities, both playing and watching. Additionally, I love experimenting with new cooking recipes, finding joy in the creative process of preparing delicious meals. With a passion for excellence and a dedication to both professional growth and personal fulfillment, I strive to make a positive impact in everything I do.
With a decade-long tenure in receptionist and administrative roles, I’ve honed my organisational skills and customer service expertise. While new to the insurance industry, I’m driven to learn and succeed. Outside of work, I cherish moments with family and enjoy watching league, whether on TV or cheering for my daughter. I bring determination, adaptability, and a positive attitude to everything I do, eager to make meaningful contributions wherever I go.
Claire’s role supports day to day operations in the general insurance team. Claire enjoys the variety in her role, be it working directly with clients or determining best practice for processing tasks. Claire has a responsive approach to understanding people and their requirements. Claire graduated from Victoria University with a double major in education and psychology and holds a Master of Arts from Massey University. She has worked in the health technology industry for many years prior to joining Wealthpoint. Outside of Wealthpoint, Claire enjoys spending time with her family and is a keen runner and tramper.
Karen has been working in the industry since 1988 and has worked for both Insurance companies and Brokerages. Karen completed the New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5) specialising in General Insurance. Karen works with clients by offering them the best advice to give them the best coverage for their insurance requirements and is always open and honest which helps Karen to build a strong relationship with her clients. Karen is Mum to one son and most weekends are filled with Sports as they are passionate about Motor Sport and Rugby. Travelling to new places is also something they both enjoy as well as spending time outdoors and spending quality time with family and friends and chilling to Netflix.
Leah began her career in the insurance industry in 2019 and transitioned into broking in 2022. Now working as a Commercial Broker, she brings a strong focus on building lasting client relationships and delivering high quality outcomes. Leah is passionate about expanding her expertise and is always eager to explore new areas within the insurance landscape. In her spare time, Leah likes to enjoy the beautiful beaches that the North Shore and Auckland have to offer. A keen nature lover and outdoor enthusiast, she often spends her weekends going for walks in nature with friends or discovering new scenic spots around the region. Her appreciation for the outdoors reflects her grounded and approachable personality, both in and out of the office.
Jake joined Wealthpoint as the Business Systems Specialist in August 2025. His role is to support members and develop technological solutions to aid Wealthpoint and the wider network. Moving to New Zealand in 2025, Jake has brought over his technology skills acquired working as a software engineer in Australia. He graduated from University of South Australia receiving a bachelor's degree in software engineering. On the weekends, Jake is likely to be found getting immersed into books and video games, or trying out new delicious restaurants in Auckland.
I support the onboarding of new member businesses, advisers, and support staff, and help keep Wealthpoint’s people-focused initiatives and processes running smoothly. My role centres on building strong relationships, supporting HR and L&D activities, and finding better ways to do things. I enjoy creating useful resources, improving processes, and contributing to a positive, people-first culture across the Co-operative. My spare time is enjoying the outdoors and spending time at the beach with my boy.
Sophie is responsible for supporting investment advisers by providing guidance on model portfolios, managed funds, and investment platforms. Sophie also assists with operational processes, including investment reporting. Sophie holds a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Economics from the University of Otago. Outside of work, Sophie enjoys playing football, watching whatever sport is on and spending time outdoors.
Tina has extensive experience in communications and marketing in organisations ranging from small start-ups to large financial services companies. Tina's experience spans internal and external communication, sponsorship, marketing, and issues management - as well as establishing and building communications functions and teams. A strong believer that communication needs to be simple, clear and compelling, Tina enjoys working on the systems, structures and processes that facilitate effective communication as well as ensuring content is crafted to hit the mark. Tina studied Communications, Sociology, and Linguistics at Massey University and has completed executive training through the Centre for Corporate Public Affairs in Australia. She is also a member of the Marketing Association of New Zealand. Outside work, Tina enjoys the outdoors and loves art and design – an interest which led her to study interior design and painting. Tina also enjoys contributing to a range of associations and clubs aimed at bringing people together to a build stronger and more cohesive local community.