Corporate Governance

As the Pacific Trade Invest Network moves into the 2027–2031 strategic period, our corporate governance architecture has evolved from a transitional phase into a sophisticated, permanent model of regional excellence. The governance reforms initiated in recent years now provide the stable foundation required to deliver the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

Independent Advisory Board

^{(image - 10th Independent Advisory Board meeting in Auckland Feb 2026. Attended by IAB Members and PTI Trade Commissioners.)}

The IAB has moved beyond its foundational stage, having successfully conducted 10 meetings since its inception. This consistency has proven the value of private sector-led oversight. Looking toward 2031, the IAB will continue to serve as the Network’s strategic compass, ensuring that PTI’s global operations remain agile and responsive to the shifting dynamics of international trade. The Board’s role is now firmly established as the primary bridge between the Pacific’s private sector and the Forum’s political leadership, ensuring that trade promotion is dictated by market reality.

CURRENT BOARD CHAIR:

Baron Waqa - Secretary General, Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat

CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS:

Bessi Graham - Founder & CEO, Benefit Capital

Michelle MacDonald - General Manager, Bat Samoa

Julienne Leka-Maliaki - Country Manager PNG, Tetra Tech International Development

Ian Clarke, OBE - Partner and former Global Vice Chair, Dentons

PTI General Manager

The introduction of the PTI General Manager (GM) role has fundamentally improved the leadership, efficiency, and effectiveness of the Network. By providing a single point of executive accountability, the GM has successfully synchronised the efforts of diverse international offices. This leadership is supported by a high-functioning Project Management Unit (PMU), which has evolved into a centre of excellence for regional coordination. In the 2027–2031 horizon, this leadership structure will focus on scaling the Network’s impact, ensuring that the "Blue Pacific" brand is synonymous with professional, results-oriented trade promotion.

Strategic Risk Management

Governance in the 2027–2031 period is defined by a proactive rather than reactive stance. The adoption and active management of the Strategic Risk Management Framework allow the IAB and GM to navigate global economic volatility with confidence. By identifying risks—from climate-related supply chain disruptions to digital security threats—before they manifest, the Network ensures the uninterrupted delivery of services to Pacific exporters and investment partners.

Through these advancements, the PTI Network enters the next decade not just as a service provider, but as a robust, highly-governed institution capable of driving the economic aspirations of the Blue Pacific toward 2031 and beyond.