Trustpower : appoints GM Corporate Services

Phil will head up the company's Finance, People, Technology and Business Performance functions as it looks to complete the sale of its retail business to Mercury and pursue renewable generation growth as Manawa Energy.

Dr Prentice says Phil's demonstrated experience leading through change and his track record as a CFO made him a standout candidate in a strong field.

"I am delighted to have a person of Phil's integrity and experience leading our corporate functions. This role is integral to the continued development of our company culture, performance framework and accountability to shareholders. The expertise Phil brings positions us well to meet the challenges and realise the opportunities currently in play for the energy sector."

Phil brings more than 20 years' experience in CFO roles for companies representing household names like Tip Top, Mainland, Vogels and Healtheries - overseeing revenues of up to $1.1 billion.

His achievements include leading Mainland through substantial changes in the dairy industry in the early 2000s and the successful listing of Vitaco Health Group on the ASX in 2015.

On his motivation for joining Trustpower, Phil noted the company's reputation for innovation and the unique opportunity presented by its move away from mass market retail.

"I'm looking forward to joining the business at the start of a new phase as it carves out its position at the forefront of New Zealand and the world's transition to renewable energy and lower carbon emissions."

Phil will start on 1 February 2022. In the event of the successful completion of the sale of Trustpower's retail business to Mercury, Phil's role will continue with the company's retained generation fleet and commercial and industrial customer base, renamed Manawa Energy.