Transformation at the C Suite and Board Level: What Makes It Work?
True transformation does not happen in isolation. It requires alignment between the C Suite and the Board, with clarity of purpose and a shared commitment to delivering change that lasts.
Join Digital Garage for an exclusive breakfast discussion that brings together senior leaders who have played a key role in leading transformation across large and complex organisations. This panel will explore what makes transformation successful at the highest levels of leadership, and how culture, governance and collaboration shape the outcome.
The session will provide insights into how leadership teams can:
- Build a unified vision for transformation across business and technology functions
- Navigate competing priorities and deliver measurable value
- Strengthen communication between executives and boards
- Empower teams to maintain momentum through uncertainty
Expect open discussion, honest reflections, and practical ideas to take back to your organisation.
Our panel brings together experienced transformation leaders from across New Zealand's business and technology landscape.
Confirmed Speakers:
Mark Daniels, Chief Technology Officer
Alex Smart, Chief Technology Officer, Southern Cross Travel Insurance
Alex Smart joined Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) in 2022.
Alex joined Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) in 2022. With more than 20 years' experience working in senior technology roles, Alex has a diverse range of skills including technology strategy and leadership, architecture, design, digital and software development. Since her time at Southern Cross Travel Insurance, Alex has led the full transformation of the policy admin and claims systems, the move to cloud native, the launch of new digital experiences for their customers, and many other initiatives which have required bringing CX into the heart of technology strategy.
Alex is part of New Zealand Tech Women and is passionate about the shape of New Zealand's future technology workforce. Under her leadership the Southern Cross Travel Insurance Digital Team won the 2023 NZ CIO Award for Best Team Culture and Inclusion, and most recently in 2025 Alex won the NZ CIO of the Year.
Lindsay Wright - Independent Director, Spark New Zealand
Lindsay Wright has 35 years of executive experience in the financial services sector, both within New Zealand and internationally. Lindsay's senior management roles at leading global asset management firms have equipped her with substantial expertise in commercial operations including business development and stakeholder management, strategy, investment management, finance, capital markets, risk and capital management. She also has extensive governance experience spanning 14 years, serving on boards of both listed and private companies.
Lindsay currently holds directorships with NZX Ltd (serving as ARMC Chair), Milford Asset Management (as ARMC Chair), and ASX-listed Navigator Global Investments. Her previous board appointments include Kiwibank and the Guardians of the NZ Super Fund, where she was Deputy Board Chair and Chair of ARMC. Lindsay is also a Fellow of the Institute of Directors Hong Kong.
Each panelist will share real experiences and lessons from transformation programs that have shaped their organisations.
Agenda
7:30 AM - Arrival and Breakfast
8:00 AM - Panel Discussion
9:30 AM - Networking
10:00 AM - Event Close
Why Attend
Transformation success depends on more than the right technology. It is about people, purpose and alignment. This event will explore how leadership teams can work together to deliver impact that lasts, supported by shared accountability and strategic clarity.
About Digital Garage
Digital Garage connects New Zealand's leading digital and software professionals with organisations driving meaningful change. Our events bring together industry peers to share knowledge, exchange ideas and strengthen the technology and transformation community across Aotearoa.
Please note:
This is a private, invite only event with limited seating. Registrations are essential.
Email [email protected] to secure a spot.