Our Board and Patron

Our Board meets monthly to develop strategies and oversee operational matters.

Simon Gutschlag

President

I have 25+ years experience in IT and general management, and have held multiple positions on not-for-profit boards (sports groups, schools, special needs groups, etc). My current professional role takes me around the world leading product development and R&D for hardware and software. I'm passionate about empowering teams to do great things bringing their skills to a common initiative. I enjoy travel, reading, technology, running and family. I have four adult children.

Herman van Gessel

Treasurer

I have a background in management accounting and experience working in not-for-profit organizations both in New Zealand and overseas.

Jackie Clemmer

Board Member

I have been an audiologist for nearly 20 years, and have experience on various professional boards, clinician training, philanthropic audiology and management in the public health service. After sensing an increasing need for high-quality and ethical private options, I opened my own successful practice in 2019. This small business has grown sustainably, and now employs two more fantastic people. Committed to both improving hearing and preventing hearing loss, I joined the board in 2023.

Ann Wheatley

Board Member

I've used hearing hearing aids for more than 30 years. The remarkable technological advances of the past 20 years enabled me to continue my professional practice despite a severe level of loss. I joined the board in 2024 to help strengthen governance, contribute technical skills, and to bring my perspectives on living with hearing loss to our communications and advocacy.

Wendy Brydon

Board Member

I am Deaf using two hearing aids and sign language and help in the Nelson Deaf Community on the Committee. I love helping people and baking cakes and biscuits. I'm divorced, with one adult child and two grand children.

Michelle Payne

Board Member

I am a local business owner. My husband and I operate a water delivery business for rural developments and households and run a small farming operation where we have Belted Galloway cattle and Valais Blacknose sheep. I am new to directorship with the Hearing Nelson Board being my first experience. I am enjoying developing my skills and knowledge by supporting this wonderful cause.

Phillip Woollaston

Patron

I'm a former mayor of Nelson, MP and cabinet minister, and ave over 20 years of experience as a local vineyard and winery proprietor. I'm married to former Hearing Nelson board member Chan, have moderate hearing loss and wear hearing aids.