Kaimahi Kōrero: Chris Dodd, Te Tōangaroa Portfolio Manager
Tell us about your background and how it led you to a role at Whai Rawa?
I’m a bit unique – born in Wellington, spent most of my life in Texas, and now happily settled in Aotearoa with my wife and two kids. I spent the first 10 years of my career in Texas in the commercial real estate investment field. During that time, I had gone back to school to get my MBA, which gave me a wider set of skills that I still use today.
Just prior to joining Whai Rawa, I gained valuable experience working for a private family office with a unique variety of assets, which was a great immersion into the local NZ market and highlighted to me the nuances of this market compared to my American experience.
Describe a day-in-the-life for you at Whai Rawa?
Being an early riser, I usually get in the office first thing in the morning when it’s still quiet, giving me the chance to respond to emails and map out my day. A big part of my role is to engage with our various stakeholders, partners, and industry colleagues, so I usually have a couple of external meetings on the books.
The rest of the time is spent analysing current and potential investments, developing strategies, and working with the team to continue moving the Te Tōangaroa masterplan forward.
What’s the highlight of your job?
In addition to getting to work alongside the fantastic team at Whai Rawa, having the chance to actively support the long-term financial wellbeing of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and witnessing the profound impact it fosters for whanau members and the broader community, is both a tremendous privilege and a highlight of the role.
What’s your go-to spot for kai in Te Tōangaroa and what do you order?
I’ve really been enjoying Donburi at AECOM House – friendly staff and great value. Usually I go for the spicy chicken & spicy pork bowl.
Tell us an interesting fact about you?
One interest of mine that is foreign to most Kiwis is American college football (gridiron). People here are always surprised to learn that games can get over 100,000 people to see a bunch of uni students play football.
What’s your favourite podcast?
Lately I’ve been loving The Rest is History podcast. I’ve always had an interest in history, and the podcast is a good way to make the daily commute more tolerable.
