Mangatu Blocks Incorporation has appointed David Battin as Chief Executive Officer following an executive search conducted by SEQEL Partners. 

With over 6,500 shareholders, Mangatu Blocks is a Māori Incorporation with established interests in the agribusiness, food processing and forestry sectors in the Te Tairāwhiti region. Mangatu Blocks Group is important to the local community and shareholders as the entity provides not only a financial dividend, but also career opportunities, culture connection, and enables opportunities for future generations.

Since 2018 David has been the Chief Financial Officer for Mangatu Blocks. He has whakapapa to Te Arawa, Ngāti Rangitihi and Ngāti Tuwharetoa. Prior to that he spent five years with BDO Gisborne as a Senior Commercial Accountant and Client Manager and during this time he studied part time and was successful in gaining his Chartered Accountancy qualification. David also has governance experience within the Tairāwhiti and Māori community, including recently being appointed as Chair of some of these organisations. His previous career includes general management and management positions in the primary, food and beverage and advertising industries.

David will be starting in January 2024 and will continue the legacy of the previous Chief Executive Gary Alexander who is retiring.