EXECUTIVE TEAM
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Samantha Lee
Chief Executive
Samantha started working at The Supported Life Style Hauraki Trust in 2010. She worked in a variety of roles, starting as a support worker, before becoming the Chief Executive in 2016.
Prior to this, Samantha had worked for a large disability service provider in Auckland until her move to Thames with her husband in 2010.
Samantha’s involvement with disability started at an early age supporting her younger sister, who has a disability and requires a high level of support.
This experience has significantly informed her desire to create a service which empowers people with disabilities to take charge of their own lives.
In her spare time, Samantha works with horses and also likes spending time with her two young sons and husband outdoors.
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Dan Verry
Executive Manager of Finance and Operations Services
Dan joined The Supported Life Style Hauraki Trust in early 2024, moving north after nearly 10 years living and working in Wellington.
Originally from the Manawatū, Dan grew up rurally and attended Massey University before heading down to Wellington.
Prior to joining the Trust, Dan worked in various audit and finance roles in the disability, legal, housing and construction sectors. He enjoys both leading teams and technical challenges, so was excited to find a position covering both finance and operations.
Outside of work Dan is passionate about all forms of sport, long-distance running, being outdoors and helping others. He enjoys spending time with friends, family, and his two dogs (Bella and Doug).
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Lesley Whitehead
Executive Manager Services
Lesley started working with the Trust in September 2020. Lesley has worked for the Ministry of Education and in different roles ih health, and the disability sector.
Lesley’s involvement with disability has been for the past 34 years with her daughter who has a disability and now lives independently. Lesley joins the Trust as person with a passion for inclusion and working collaboratively with others to make a difference.
In her home life time Lesley enjoys family time with her husband, adult children and 5 grandchildren she also likes to spend time in the garden and at the beach.
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Lisa Madgwick
Executive Assistant
Lisa joined the Trust in 2023 as the Executive Assistant to Chief Executive, Samantha.
Lisa comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the administrative, planning and process development field. Her skills, experience and energy are a real asset to the team.
When not at work, Lisa spends time pottering around on her three acres, with husband and daughter. She loves working with her horses, and various animals on the property.