NZX advises that Jon Macdonald, CEO of NZX/ASX listed Trade Me Group Limited, has accepted an invitation to join the NZX Board. Jon's appointment is effective from 3 May 2013, subject to confirmation by NZX shareholders at the Annual Meeting to be held on that day.
Jon has a background in engineering and technology. He joined Trade Me in 2003 and was appointed CEO in 2008. Prior to joining Trade Me, Jon worked in London for HSBC Investment Bank in a variety of technical and management positions, and has worked for Deloitte Consulting with a focus on telecommunications and financial services. Jon has a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) from the University of Canterbury.
NZX Chairman Andrew Harmos commented: "The Board and Management of NZX are delighted Jon has accepted our invitation to join the Board. His age, background and skill set make him an ideal appointment, and his expertise will bring a valuable contribution to the Board's existing skill base and diversity. We look forward to welcoming Jon to the Board, and NZX more broadly.
"Like NZX, Trade Me is a scalable infrastructure business that brings together buyers and sellers on a strong technology-based platform. Trade Me is a much-loved New Zealand company with a loyal customer base. Having successfully led the company in its NZX and ASX listing, Jon joins other NZX Board members in bringing a valuable listed customer perspective to NZX."
NZX CEO Tim Bennett commented: "We are very pleased to welcome Jon to NZX at what is an exciting time for the organisation. With NZX's focus on growing New Zealand's capital markets, Jon's appointment is timely as he brings first-hand experience of managing a large private company that chose listing to support its future capital requirements and growth.
"We look forward to Jon's contribution to NZX's strategies and future growth, and the valuable experience he brings both on a large-scale technology and innovation front, and as an important member of our issuer community."
Jon Macdonald, Trade Me CEO, commented: "I'm delighted to join the NZX Board. I very much believe in NZX's objectives, and it's clear that healthy capital markets are essential to New Zealand's economic prosperity and growth. I'm really looking forward to contributing to such a vital New Zealand institution."
NZX would like to thank the Trade Me Board for extending its support to Jon in this appointment to the NZX Board, and by extension its support for New Zealand's capital markets.