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MITO Board

MITO Board and shareholders

For more than 50 years, MITO has supported the training and education of apprentices and learners across the automotive, commercial road transport, mining, quarrying, drilling, gas, and logistics sectors.

On 1 January 2026, MITO became an industry-owned private training establishment, marking a significant milestone in its history.

This transition represents the next chapter in MITO’s journey—one led directly by the industries we serve.

It reflects a shared vision for industry-led training, ensuring education and workforce development are delivered by industry, for industry.

MITO's Board members

Sturrock Saunders

Sturrock Saunders

Board Chairperson

I’m an experienced board chairperson with over 30 years in the automotive industry. I currently serve as President of the Motor Trade Association (MTA), Chairperson of the Inspiring Future Foundation, and Director at both DNZ (Vehicle Testing NZ) and Auto Stewardship NZ.

I bring a strong track record of strategic leadership and collaborative decision-making to the MITO Board. My focus is on fostering inclusive dialogue and driving outcomes that support the future of automotive training and development.

Warren Flowerday

Warren Flowerday

Deputy Board Chairperson

I'm the owner of Tandem Smash Repairs and Vice Chairman of I-CAR New Zealand, also the former Chair of the New Zealand Collision Repair Association, with a strong background in vocational training and industry development.

I'm privileged to have been appointed Deputy Chairman of the MITO Board, and I believe my experience navigating industry reform, connections across the automotive trades, and ongoing commitment to supporting apprentices and growing the future workforce will add real value to the role.

Dean Eggers

Dean Eggers

Board Director

I lead a family-owned business based in Taranaki that recently celebrated 40 years of operation. Symons Group spans four key sectors: transport, warehousing, commercial property, and waste management.

I bring a direct and decisive leadership style, and I’m not afraid to ask the hard questions to drive progress and deliver results.

Iain Haycock

Iain Haycock

Board Director

I'm a Chief Executive and Principal Geotechnical Engineer with 27 years of local and international experience gained in engineering consultancy and construction roles.

Leading integrated teams of tertiary and trade professionals on complex projects has shown me the critical role education, training, and mentoring play in unlocking individual and organisational potential.

The opportunity to share these experiences and help influence positive outcomes in governance roles within primary, tertiary, and vocational education/training has been a key highlight.

Kim Milne

Kim Milne

Board Director

Having held Chief People Officer and operations roles across many industries, I’m passionate about building strong, people-focused organisations where individuals can thrive.

Joining the MITO Board is a meaningful opportunity for me to support the automotive, transport, and logistics sectors that are vital to New Zealand’s economy and future. I’m excited to contribute my experience and insight to help shape pathways that empower learners and strengthen industry capability.

Jason Land

Jason Land

Board Director

As a qualified automotive electrician and owner of a busy automotive repair complex in Hamilton, I bring hands-on industry experience and a deep commitment to apprenticeship training.

I’m passionate about developing young talent and have supported many apprentices into successful careers.

I was chosen for the MITO Board to represent industry perspectives and help ensure a strong, future-focused foundation for our sector as we re-establish MITO as a new PTE.  

Warwick Wilshier

Warwick Wilshier

Board Director

I've been in the forestry industry all my working life—a log transport operator for 40 plus years.

I was a founding member of the Log Transport Safety Council, and Chair for 25 years.

I'm also a member of the Road Transport Association and Chair of Transporting New Zealand over the last few years.

As an industry, we are very involved in driver training, health, and welfare. MITO has played a large role in developing the skills of our workers and I am keen to support the future direction.

James McDowall

Shareholder Convenor

Shareholder Convenor

James is Head of Advocacy at the Motor Trade Association (MTA), representing New Zealand’s 4,000 automotive businesses and leading engagement with Ministers, MPs, and government agencies on industry policy.

A former Member of Parliament, James held several portfolios and served on the Transport and Infrastructure Select Committee. His career has spanned law, governance, tech startups, marketing, and IT—after originally beginning as a music teacher. James has a PhD from the University of Waikato.

MITO shareholders

Founding shareholders of MITO Limited are:

  • Aggregate and Quarry Association of New Zealand
  • Association of Australasian Diesel Specialists Inc
  • Bus & Coach Assoctiation New Zealand
  • Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport
  • Collision Repair Association Inc
  • Gas Association of New Zealand
  • Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
  • Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association
  • Motor Industry Association of New Zealand Inc
  • Motor Trade Association Inc
  • MinEX Health and Safety Council
  • National Road Carriers
  • NZ Drillers Federation Inc
  • NZ Engine Reconditioners Association
  • NZ Heavy Haulage Association Inc
  • New Zealand Trucking Association
  • NZ Log Transport Safety Council
  • New Zealand Minerals Council 
  • Tractor & Machinery Association
  • WasteMinz