The Minister for Manufacturing Awards will once again take place at EMEX, New Zealand’s largest manufacturing and engineering trade event, bringing the sector together to celebrate excellence, leadership, and innovation.
With entries now officially closed, our experienced judging panel is beginning the process of reviewing submissions for this year’s awards. These judges bring deep, real‑world experience from across manufacturing, engineering, finance, governance, and workforce development.
If you didn’t enter this year, these are some of the things that the judges look for. Be certain to apply in 2027 at Southmach.
Below is a snapshot of who the judges are and what they value — when selecting this year’s finalists.
Finalists will be announced on 29 April, ahead of the awards celebration at EMEX. Tickets are available now — purchase online and join us as we celebrate the best of New Zealand manufacturing.
Excellence in Process Innovation Award
Recognising innovative manufacturing processes that improve efficiency, sustainability, and product quality. This award celebrates teams who rethink processes to deliver meaningful gains — whether through automation, digital systems, or smarter ways of working.
Nick Prattley | Director at Swell
Nick brings a clear, outcome‑focused lens to the category.
What they value in the judging process:
“Clarity on what was done and why it matters. Big results are impressive, but small, well‑executed shifts that make a tangible difference really stand out.”
Nick focuses on storytelling simple, relatable, and human.
Chris Komatas | Partnership and Business Development at Globex
Chris Komatas brings a strong blend of manufacturing, technology, and commercial leadership to the panel.
Chris looks for process innovations that create real, scalable impact — improvements that quietly transform daily operations and enable sustainable growth.
Amos Breyfogle
Cofounder Pivot Innovation
With global experience across the US and Europe, Amos specialises in additive manufacturing, automation, and technology‑led product development.
Amos values practical innovation — solutions that simplify complexity, enable people, and deliver results on the factory floor.
Manufacturer of the Year – <50 FTE
Awarded to a business demonstrating excellence in production, innovation, and overall contribution to the industry.
Sebastian Stoof | General Manager at MHM Automation
Sebastian has spent his career across global technology and manufacturing environments.
What they value in the judging process: Teams building expertise, learning from global best practice, leveraging partnerships, and committing to long‑term commercial success.
“Focus on the why. Share the obstacles, the learning, and what others in the sector can take from your journey.”
Alex West | Head of Sustainable Finance – Partnership Banking, BNZ
Alex brings a unique blend of finance, sustainability, and hands‑on small business experience.
What they value in the judging process:
He values leadership, financial discipline, and resilience — recognising manufacturers who combine performance with long‑term purpose.
Manufacturer of the Year – 50+ FTE
Awarded to a business demonstrating excellence in production, innovation, and overall contribution to the industry.
John Cochrane | Self Employed Manufacturing Advocate
“Manufacturing is an unsung hero sector in New Zealand. These awards give it the spotlight it deserves.”
What they value in the judging process:
John values strong storytelling — journeys that show the ups, downs, and human side behind large‑scale success.
Stephen Armstrong | Chief Operating Officer at Tectonus Seismic Technology
Stephen brings senior leadership experience across complex manufacturing operations. He is particularly interested in scale done well — where performance, culture, and people development move together.
Rod de Spong | Chief Operating Officer at Douglas Pharmaceuticals Limited
Rod brings a strong governance and systems lens, valuing accountability, leadership depth, and organisational discipline that enables innovation rather than slowing it.
Douglas Pharmaceuticals were the previous winners of this category, so Rod is well placed to understand what stands out as a potential winner.
Apprentice of the Year Award
Honouring the achievements of an outstanding apprentice who shows exceptional promise and skill in the manufacturing industry.
Nathan Hay | General Manager at Argus Manutech
Nathan is excited by the momentum behind apprenticeships and clearer career pathways.
What they value in the judging process:
“Back yourself. Be genuine. Keep learning — and if it didn’t go your way last year, come back stronger.”
Iain McMillan | CEO at Enztec
With a PhD and CEO role following an apprenticeship start, Iain deeply understands the long‑term impact of early learning.
What they value in the judging process:
“Be honest. Don’t overblow it — but let your passion come through.”
Mike Cahill | Self Employed Manufacturing Leader
With over 40 years in the industry, Mike is passionate about giving back and supporting emerging talent.
What they value in the judging process:
“Put your hand up. Get involved. That’s how great careers are built.”
Emerging Leader Award
Recognising a rising leader who is making a strong impact early in their leadership journey.
Vicky Webb | Senior Capital Support Manager at Fonterra
Vicky is excited by leaders who plan for uncertainty — Plan B and Plan C included.
What they value in the judging process:
“I’m looking for leaders who bring out the best in their teams, not just individual performers.”
Gordon Sutherland | Self Employed
Gordon brings hands‑on manufacturing leadership experience with a strong focus on investment in people, automation, and future capability.
He values emerging leaders who combine decisiveness with curiosity and integrity.
Manufacturing Leadership Award
Recognising leaders who have made a significant impact on their business and the industry through visionary leadership and strategic growth.
Alan Sutcliffe | Independent Director
With 25+ years across manufacturing, operations, and governance, Alan brings a pragmatic, people‑focused leadership lens.
He values leaders who balance strategy, execution, and long‑term capability building.
John Lawson | Founder & Managing Director, Lawson Williams
John brings a people‑centric view shaped by decades of working with manufacturing leaders across New Zealand.
What they value in the judging process:
He looks for leadership that builds teams, succession, and culture — not just results.
