Melissa Dawson, Strategic Engagement Manager

Melissa has a wealth of expertise in project management, stakeholder management, communications, public relations, brand project management. Throughout a 20-year career, Melissa has developed extensive experience in both community sport and High Performance Sport environments at a regional and national level. During this time she has gained additional skills while working in a professional services firm leading the marketing function of two large offices in the United Kingdom. Melissa’s superior relationship management skills have been a driving force behind the increased visibility of Paralympians, Para sport and Paralympics New Zealand in media in recent years. Through education and support Melissa has empowered the media to feel at ease creating content about the achievements of Paralympians and consequently promoting understanding of disability.

As Strategic Engagement Manager, the key driver behind Melissa’s role is providing strategic advice to the Chief Executive and key support on all key stakeholder relations. Melissa leads the facilitation of programmes and initiatives to benefit PNZ and its stakeholders. Working closely with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team, Melissa leads internal and external stakeholder communications and support key stakeholders ensuring that they are informed of key PNZ programmes and initiatives. She is focused on obtaining wider community and government support and buy-in for resource support for programmes and initiatives supported by leading evidence-based research and ideas for more sustainable decision making. Leadership of organisational development programmes and initiatives will ensure the delivery of the outcomes within the PNZ Strategic Plan 2021 – 2032. Melissa led and supported the delivery of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games broadcast and general media activity.