Winton Appoints New Chair and Reshuffles Committees Amid Leadership Changes
Winton Land has named Michael Stiassny as its new independent chair, stepping into a leadership role during a period of significant board and executive change. The company is actively recruiting additional independent directors and senior executives to stabilise governance and operations.
- Michael Stiassny appointed independent chair
- Board committee reshuffle to meet NZX rules
- Recruitment underway for more independent directors
- Permanent CEO and CFO searches initiated
- Board confident in senior leadership during transition
New Independent Chair Takes Helm
Winton Land Limited (NZX:WIN, ASX:WTN) has appointed Michael Stiassny as its independent chair, effective 2 September 2026. Stiassny brings over 40 years of experience in financial advisory, governance, and capital markets to the role. His current directorships include chairing NZX-listed 2 Cheap Cars Group and Being AI, as well as Momentum Life Insurance. The board has formally classified him as independent under NZX Listing Rules, a key step in bolstering governance amid recent leadership upheaval.
Board Committee Reorganisation
Alongside Stiassny's appointment, Winton has restructured its board committees to align with NZX requirements and best practice governance standards. Stiassny joins the Audit and Financial Risk Committee, chaired by Glen Tupuhi, and takes the helm of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee. These changes aim to strengthen oversight as the company navigates a critical phase of leadership transition.
Ongoing Recruitment for Governance and Leadership
The board is actively seeking additional independent directors to achieve the NZX Corporate Governance Code's recommendation of a majority independent board. A third-party recruitment agency has been engaged to identify qualified candidates. Concurrently, Winton is progressing searches for a permanent CEO and a new Chief Financial Officer, signalling a broader effort to stabilise and future-proof its senior management team. Until these appointments are finalised, the existing senior leadership continues to manage daily operations.
Stability Amid Transition
Winton’s board acknowledges the challenges posed by recent departures and governance disputes that have unsettled the company in recent months. Independent director Glen Tupuhi expressed optimism about Stiassny's leadership, highlighting his governance expertise as vital for stabilising operations. Stiassny himself emphasised that his immediate focus is on stabilising Winton to refocus efforts on maximising shareholder value.
Winton’s Position in Residential Land Development
Winton specialises in residential land development, managing 11 masterplanned communities with a pipeline of approximately 5,400 residential lots and various dwelling types. The company listed on both the NZX and ASX in 2021 and continues to operate amidst a backdrop of leadership changes and strategic repositioning.
Bottom Line?
Winton’s governance overhaul and leadership recruitment mark a pivotal attempt to restore stability, but the effectiveness of these changes will hinge on the timely appointment of new executives and directors.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly can Winton secure a permanent CEO and CFO to drive strategic execution?
- Will the addition of more independent directors shift the board’s dynamics and decision-making?
- Can the senior leadership team maintain operational momentum during this extended transition?
