Gail Thomson (DipSM NZCS MBA MNZM) has an extensive involvement with charitable trusts, including the Hillary House Leadership Centre.   She initiated the relocation of Sir Edmund’s house to the site at Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate with the vision of utilising it as a Leadership Centre.   From the very beginning she steered the move and fundraising, including establishing the Hillary House Leadership Centre Trust, and has served as both trustee and chair during this time.

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Gail is an experienced leader in education with a diverse background of senior roles in public and independent schools.  Her experience includes 15 years as senior manager in state and independent schools in New Zealand, including 11 years as executive principal of an independent school.  Since resigning from that role in 2003 she has served as a consultant to many schools, in roles ranging from project leader to commissioner and limited statutory manager.  She has worked with schools across the full range of year levels (pre-school, primary and secondary) and deciles.  She has also worked internationally, advising on the restructuring of the Doha school system.

Gail was recognised for her services to education by being made Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2014.

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September 2018