The Team

This group holds the governance function of Cleft New Zealand Inc. They provide strategic leadership, stewardship, external relations and board management, following the rules as set down in the organisation’s Constitution.

We are an Incorporated Society which is a ‘membership-driven’ organisation, and as an Incorporated Society we represent the experiences, views and opinions of our members. Our members represent a community of people who are touched in some way by an individual born with a cleft lip and/or palate.

Executive team members are nominated for these positions and members vote at an AGM or SGM. This Executive Team was voted in at the AGM on Monday 25th May 2009.

Team Members

John Frear – Chairperson
John has been involved with this organisation since 2004. His background in corporate sales & marketing, along with his experience in governance roles is an invaluable asset to the leadership and strategic focus of Cleft New Zealand.

Stephen Selwood – Deputy Chairperson
Stephen is the Chief Executive of the NZ Council for Infrastructure Development. He understands governance, the importance of leadership & effective communications & advocacy to support the case for change to make things better for families with children born with cleft. As an adult born with a cleft and with a daughter also born with a cleft, Stephen has lived experience of this journey.

Ian Pallas – Secretary / Treasurer
With his experience as a Chartered Accountant in corporate & non-profit sectors, along with his secretarial and hands on roles in charitable organisations, Ian’s input will be invaluable to Cleft New Zealand. Ian also has lived experience of cleft and has experienced medical intervention both as a child and again later as an adult.

Elspeth Lamb
Elspeth chooses to work professionally in non-profit organisations, which are passionate about people & the major issues that affect the quality of their lives. Elspeth was drawn to this organisation after meeting some of the amazing young people and adults born with cleft and feeling inspired by their strength.

Susan Frear
Like her husband John, Susan has been actively involved with the organisation since 2004. Susan believes in the empowerment of communities to make a difference to the shape of their futures. Her background is in sales, marketing and project work. Community and utilising lived experience to support others is a motivating factor for Susan’s involvement.