Karen Coutts

Karen has held a number of senior operational roles in the UK in the health and social sector and policy roles in central government in the mental health, data-statistics and Māori economic development sectors. Her shift from social to economic development reflects her aptitude to be a ‘change-agent’ following a career committed to making our society inclusive, fulfilling human rights for all, and therefore achieving better economic outcomes as well. Karen has also been heavily involved in Māori/iwi/hapū governance over the past 15 years and draws on personal experiences to guide her choice of work in Wellington. She affiliates to Ngāi Tahu and Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki. Karen sees it as critical to fulfillment of Treaty of Waitangi obligations for both the Crown and Māori to bring integrity, transparency, honesty and ethical relationships as key for progressing the well-being of all in NZ.