Leanne Illingworth

Leanne Illingworth

Membership: Appoint Professional

Otago

10 years governance experience

Paid roles only

Contact Leanne Illingworth

About Me

“I am an independent director and Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors with governance and executive experience spanning healthcare, aged care, community services, and private enterprise. My career has combined commercial business ownership with governance leadership across organisations operating in increasingly complex and rapidly evolving environments. I am particularly interested in governance that supports long-term sustainability, strategic growth, strong organisational culture, and meaningful community impact. Much of my experience has been gained within sectors facing significant workforce pressures, constrained funding environments, increasing service demand, and changing stakeholder expectations. This has given me a strong appreciation for the importance of thoughtful governance, constructive relationships, and boards that can balance strategic ambition with operational reality. Alongside governance roles, I have owned and operated SMEs in hospitality, construction, and horticulture, providing practical commercial experience in growth strategy, financial management, workforce leadership, and navigating changing business environments. I am known for bringing a calm, analytical, and collaborative approach to governance, together with strong stakeholder relationships and the ability to contribute constructively to robust board discussion. I value boards that encourage diversity of thought, strategic thinking, and respectful challenge in support of good decision-making. I remain strongly motivated by opportunities to contribute to organisations that are values-driven, community-connected, and focused on long-term sustainability and positive impact.”

Experience

Skills
  • Compliance & Risk
  • General Management
  • Governance
  • Strategy & Planning
Industry/Sector Experience
  • Community/Social Assist.
  • Construction/Trades
  • Govt/Public Sector
  • Health/Medical/Pharma
  • Hospitality/Tourism
Memberships

Diversity

I can be a voice for
  • Women
  • Provincially based individuals

Governance Profile

Independent Governance Services
Independent Governance Services

Independent minute taking & board reporting

Specialists in best practice support services

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