Growing the Team for a Growing Future

As Sunrise continues to grow from strength to strength, we’re making some positive changes within our team to ensure we’re well positioned for the future. 

With record growth in endowments, increasing enquiries about new funds, trust transfers, and with more and more grants being distributed each year, the operational workload has expanded significantly. To support this momentum, Sunrise will soon begin the search for a new team member, with skills to lead our day-to-day operations.

Board Chair Rob Dymock says the move reflects Sunrise’s exciting trajectory. “We are thrilled with the growth Sunrise has experienced over the past couple of years. It’s a wonderful position to be in, and we’re excited to begin the search for someone who can support the current team and help us continue building on that success.” 

As part of this next phase, Sunrise’s CEO Glenda Stokes will transition into a dedicated donor engagement role, focusing on the relationships and conversations she is most passionate about. She will work closely with fundholders and donors, taking the lead on the relationship side of Sunrise’s annual funding round, as well as serving as the personal point of contact for grant recipients. Operational management will sit within the new role, enabling Glenda to concentrate fully on connection and stewardship.  

“Glenda has a proven and exceptional ability to connect with donors and share the Sunrise story,” says Rob. “We’re delighted that she will continue with Sunrise in a dedicated donor-focused role, doing what she does so well and what she truly enjoys.” 

These changes are about ensuring Sunrise remains strong, sustainable, and responsive as we continue building a legacy for Tairāwhiti. With the right people in the right roles, we look forward to the next chapter of growth and impact for our community. The new management of operations role will be advertised on Seek later next month, and we encourage anyone with the right skills and a passion for community to keep an eye out.