MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS | BUSINESS
Dame Theresa Gattung
Dame Theresa Gattung is one of New Zealand’s most distinguished business leaders, entrepreneurs and change-makers. She became the first woman to lead a major NZX-listed company when she was appointed CEO of Telecom New Zealand at age 37 in 1999.
Following her corporate tenure, Theresa co-founded the nationwide meal-kit pioneer My Food Bag and has taken leadership roles across governance, investment, and philanthropic initiatives focused on women, equity and social enterprise.
Today she chairs organisations including Global Women and drives the work of the Gattung Foundation, cementing her reputation as a trail-blazer for women in business and impact-driven leadership.
On stage, Theresa brings a rare blend of corporate gravitas and entrepreneurial hunger — offering audiences navigating transformation, leadership, gender-diversity or innovation, a deeply authentic, results-oriented voice.
Testimonials
“I just wanted to let you know how inspiring your talk last night at the Cambodia Charitable Trust here in Tauranga was. Thank you for your inspiration to get me off my a*** again and get working for the greater good of more than just me. Have an awesome day and stay as you are.”
— Sandra Saller, Tauranga, New Zealand
“Theresa gave the opening address at our Annual Conference. She had the whole audience captivated. She’s one of the best speakers we had, from a very good line up.”
— Marie Dawkins, CEO, Summerfruit New Zealand
