Northland Inc appoints new Head of Investment

Tui Rutherford, Northland Inc Head of Investment

Northland Inc is pleased to announce the appointment of Tui Rutherford (Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Te Roroa) as its new Head of Investment.

Tui will join the organisation on 19 January 2026, bringing leadership capability and a deep understanding of investment, economic development, and the public sector.

Tui brings a strong background across central and local government and economic development. Most recently, he was Head of Small Business Services at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, working closely with government, industry, and regional partners to support business growth and investment outcomes. Prior to this he has held key roles with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and Auckland Council, brings a background in private sector enterprise level broadcast technology sales in New Zealand and Australia (TVNZ Satellite Services, Cygnus Satellite), and has contributed through a range of governance roles across community, small business, and Māori organisations.

Paul Linton, Chief Executive of Northland Inc, says Tui’s appointment followed a highly competitive process.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Tui to the Northland Inc team,” Paul says. “Tui brings a strong mix of leadership, government, and economic development experience, along with extensive networks that will be a valuable asset to our organisation and to Te Tai Tokerau. His appointment further strengthens our ability to generate inwards investment and enable positive outcomes for the region.”

Tui says he “couldn’t be happier to be returning home, to help sustainably grow our local economy, building business, jobs and quality of life into the future”.

Originally from the Hokianga, and with whanau and friends across the region, Tui brings a strong connection to Te Tai Tokerau that further supports his alignment with the organisation and its kaupapa.