Harris, an experienced executive, having led organisations such as Meredith-Connell, Fisher and Paykel Appliances, Netball New Zealand and currently HockeyNew Zealand; will start in his new role in early February.Harris says: “I’m keen to bring in my experience, industry knowledge andnetworks, as well as my passion to see young people succeed.”“I’m extremely excited to be appointed to lead WorldSkills New Zealand, which isan important organisation as it contributes to the development of young peoplein the trades, and nurtures future industry leaders.”WorldSkills New Zealand is an independent, non-profit charitable trust founded in1986. It is dedicated to encouraging young people to excel in vocational skills,which is achieved through exposure to skills competitions at regional, nationaland international levels.Harris says: “there are many similarities between the world of high performancesport and what WorldSkills is about. I’m excited about the potential andopportunities around skills competitions, and the ability to raise the profile ofmany excellent young New Zealanders who are, or aiming to be at the top oftheir given trade.”He’s also keen to develop more connections between industry and trainingorganisations to support WorldSkills New Zealand’s vision and goals.Harris is no stranger to the trades, technical and commercial world, particularlythrough his long and varied career at Fisher and Paykel Appliances. He started inthe company in product design and production engineering, working with manytradespeople and apprentices in the associated trades, before going into theproduct marketing and international sales.Harris lives in Auckland with his family which includes four young adult andteenage children, giving him a personal understanding of the needs of modern-day youth.

Source:  Press release WorldSkillsNZ