The Unison Great Lake Taupō Business Awards are all about celebrating excellence – and that starts with our judges. As Stage One of judging kicks off, we’re thrilled to introduce the incredible panel of industry experts who will help shape this year’s awards. With backgrounds in everything from strategy and innovation to marketing, sustainability, and leadership, these professionals bring deep knowledge and fresh perspectives to the table. Their role is to assess our entrants and highlight the businesses that truly raise the bar. Take a moment to meet the judges who will be championing the brightest stars in our local business community.
Meet our Stage one Judges
Amanda Wilson, These Guys I Know
Amanda is a business strategist with deep expertise in communications and brand. She’s held senior roles across law, music retail, and media — including leading marketing for MediaWorks where she launched THREE NOW and major TV brands like The Block NZ. In tourism, she was Head of Business Marketing at Tourism Holdings Limited before founding her own strategy company, These Guys I Know, working across sectors from tech to tourism. Amanda led campaigns like VisionWeek and Help for Hospo, and more recently developed the Z Manu World Champs and Star RV for JUCY Group.
Joy Moir, Waikato Regional Council
Joy is a Senior Advisor in Sustainability and Climate Change at Waikato Regional Council. Originally from the UK, she brings decades of international experience in environmental strategy, emissions reduction, and climate resilience. Known for her collaborative style, Joy works closely with iwi, communities, and stakeholders to create inclusive and effective climate policies that blend global best practice with local impact.
Jason Hill, Tourism Talent and Meneth Consulting
Jason is Managing Director of Tourism Talent and Meneth Consulting, with a career spanning senior leadership roles across the tourism sector. He’s an expert in executive recruitment, marketing strategy, and industry engagement. Jason previously led Auckland Tourism and held international and national marketing roles with Tourism New Zealand and Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism. He also brings strong governance experience, including roles with Tourism Bay of Plenty, the Tongariro Tourism Hub, and the NZ Cruise Association.
Sean Bell, 2Degrees
Sean is National Chamber and Sales Manager at 2degrees, with over 15 years in the telecommunications industry. He leads partnerships with Chambers of Commerce across New Zealand, helping connect and support the wider business community. Outside of work, Sean is a proud dad of two and an avid sports enthusiast.
John Sandford, Sandford.Solutions
John is a seasoned business leader and director with over 30 years of experience across tourism, media, forestry, transport, and economic development. A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors and Fellow of the NZ Institute of Management, John has led organisations including Jasons Travel Media and his own consultancy Sandford Solutions. His governance roles span commercial and not-for-profit sectors, including PATA International, Destination Coromandel, and Keep NZ Beautiful. Known for his strategic insight and leadership, John brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for business growth and community impact.
Emma Bayliss, Elevation Network
Emma is a Chartered Accountant and founder of Elevation Network, with a background in Big 4 firms and corporate leadership. Formerly a CEO in Rotorua, she brings expertise in finance, strategy, and business improvement. Emma is also active in governance, serving on the Rotorua Chamber of Commerce board, Scouts Aotearoa’s Audit and Risk Committee, and the local Chartered Accountants committee. She’s passionate about helping businesses grow and thrive.
