Technology Queenstown appoints first boss
Technology Queenstown (TQ), the development agency tasked with building a robust technology sector for Queenstown Lakes, has appointed Sarah Russell as its inaugural chief executive officer.
Launched in January 2024, TQ has run an extensive global search to appoint its CEO, attracting over 200 applicants.
Russell brings a wealth of experience and strategic leadership to this role and is no stranger to building something from the ground up. After an international career in banking, in 2017 she co-founded Sydney-based AI software company Elula with its products now used by some of Australia's largest banks to deliver better customer experiences.
“We are privileged to have an individual of Sarah’s calibre to lead TQ,” TQ Chair Roger Sharp says.
“Sarah’s experience and drive will see us expand our impact on the Queenstown Lakes District and Central Otago as we embark on making a material difference to the future economy of the region through building out its tech sector.”
Originally from Christchurch, Sarah holds a Master of Commerce degree in Economics from the University of Canterbury.
“I’m thrilled to be leading Technology Queenstown and to foster the growth of a vibrant technology ecosystem in the region,” Russell says.
“The progress TQ has made since its launch on 31 January this year, including the support of its corporate partners to get it off the ground, has been phenomenal.
“I’m looking forward to building on this success and delivering economic growth and a strong pipeline of high-value tech sector employment opportunities for the community.”
Russell and her family will relocate from Sydney to Queenstown in January 2025 in time to begin in the CEO role on 28 January.
The global search for the inaugural TQ CEO was run pro bono by Brannigans Partner Nick Carter.
