A key member of the first five team, Ross Baker, Director, is an experienced CEO, Director and Executive Manager in the private and government sector with over 30 years learnings, with shareholder, governance, and management experience in start-ups and leading as executive manager MD in small to medium business as well as listed organizations. Key areas of focus have been ICT and Telecommunications sectors.

Ross brings an enviable and unparalleled blend of knowledge and practical experience in the leadership of people, organisations and culture, the creation and implementation of innovative marketing strategies, strategic planning and financial management. National and international mergers, acquisitions and divestments of small and growth ventures/companies, policy development, financial and management due diligence and risk assessment and management are core strengths.

Ross previously was the chairman of two of the three Callaghan Innovation R&D funding investment committees.

Governance roles include eCommerce, IT, sporting and cultural sector organisations.

Pet Business Hates: Inefficient balance sheets, business rework, capital famine to fund opportunity or growth.  

M: 021 748 400

E: ross@first-five.co.nz

And another key member, Michael Zino, Director, is an experienced CEO, executive, director and a current member of the IOD. He has over 25 years successful leadership and management expertise in private, public, and SOE companies and organizations.

Mike's experience spans governance, executive, strategic and operational planning, risk, sales, and business development, programme and project management. He has especial expertise in leading and managing operational and Marketing teams and functions (a specialty) including for small as well as listed companies. Strong national and international experience in competitive, market and pricing strategy

Industry experience includes, telecommunications, eCommerce and IT services, education, banking services and membership organisations.

Pet Business hates: Misalignment of stakeholders, playing (without good cause) at other than the intersection of the supply and demand curve, business and process rework, the absence of teamwork and a shared game plan, internal sales prevention units. 

M: 021 496 478

E: mike@first-five.co.nz