congratulations / appointments

Julian Smith is an independent director with 13 years of governance experience, having retired from his executive career in late 2019 as Chief Customer Officer for Meridian Energy, where he was responsible for NZD$1.2 Billion in revenue and a team of 400. His executive career saw him hold several senior executive roles across the internet and digital, financial services, telecommunications sectors, as well as central government.

Julian Smith Joins
CDI Board
As Independent
Non-Executive
Director

CDL Investments New Zealand Limited (CDI) has strengthened its Board with the appointment of Mr Julian Smith as an Independent Non-Executive Director, effective 9 December 2025. Mr Smith’s appointment follows a comprehensive search and selection process by the Board.

Commenting on the appointment, Ms Desleigh Jameson, Chair of CDI, said, “The Board is delighted to welcome Julian. His extensive governance experience, strategic perspective and leadership in large-scale transformation initiatives will further strengthen CDI’s focus on sustainable growth and long-term shareholder value.”

Mr Smith brings more than 15 years of governance experience, with a track record in leading major capital and digital transformation initiatives. Most recently, he led New Zealand’s largest capital raise of S$3.4 billion, supporting Auckland’s S$13 billion water infrastructure programme.

A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, Mr Smith chairs the Te Tai Tokerau committee and currently serves on the boards of Watercare, Northport Group, MetService and the Look Good Feel Better Trust.

His background spans business transformation, capital project delivery and digital governance, including AI and cybersecurity, complemented by deep experience in marketing and customer engagement. Mr Smith has worked extensively across Asia, Australasia, the Middle East and the UK, and holds an LLB and BCom from the University of Auckland, as well as a certificate in cybersecurity from Harvard University.

CDI looks forward to Mr Smith’s contribution as the Board continues to guide the company’s long-term strategy and growth.

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