Leading with purpose: Meet our Board
At Student Job Search Aotearoa, our Board plays a pivotal role in steering our mission to enhance the lives of students and employers alike through enriching employment opportunities.
Providing strategic guidance and oversight, we are dedicated to realising our vision of becoming Aotearoa’s champion of student employment.
Lucy Hickman
Board Chair
Lucy's journey with SJS Aotearoa commenced in 2023 when she joined our Board, assuming the role of Chair immediately after the 2023 AGM. Her dynamic leadership style is shaped by her role as the Deputy Chief Executive of the Electoral Commission, where she oversees the Enterprise Services Group. With a robust background in health and formidable governance skills, Lucy brings a wealth of expertise to our deliberations. She holds a Bachelor of Management Studies from The University of Waikato, majoring in Accounting and Finance.
Ian Simpson
Deputy Board Chair
Ian's appointment to the Student Job Search Aotearoa Board in 2023 heralds a new era of digital innovation and leadership. With a robust IT background, Ian infuses our Board with a wealth of digital expertise and vision. As the Managing Director of The Logic Studio in Dunedin, Ian champions excellence and collaboration within the tech community. He holds a Bachelor of IT from Otago Polytechnic and is a Chartered IT Professional (CITPNZ) and Member of the Institute of Directors (MinstD).
James Grafas
Board Member
James brings a dynamic blend of leadership and innovation, honed through his extensive experience in HR. As the former CEO of Agoge—2018 NZ Large Recruitment Company of the Year— and awarded NZ Recruitment Leader of the Year, James has consistently pushed boundaries. He’s the Founder of James People (an HR consultancy) and Good Trust, and is now a Professional Director and Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors.
Pare Graham
Board Member
Pare's journey to the Student Job Search Aotearoa Board in 2023 is marked by a profound commitment to advancing the Māori community and fostering equitable opportunities. Ngā Puhi, Waikato-Tainui, Te Arawa, Ngāti Kahungunu—she applies her Education and Developmental Psychology expertise within the Ministry of Education, passionately upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Craig Mildenhall
Board Member
Craig joined the SJS Board in September 2023, bringing a wealth of knowledge in consumer experience, product development, and brand strategy. He leads digital at Kathmandu as General Manager, specialising in data-driven growth strategies. Craig holds a Bachelor of Tourism Management.