Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand, March 2025 — Felicity McLachlan has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer at RealNZ, marking a significant advancement in her already impressive career within the company. Having served in various financial roles at RealNZ over the past seven years, Felicity’s deep understanding of the company’s operations and strategic vision makes her an ideal fit for this top executive role.
Felicity’s journey at RealNZ has seen her progress from Group Finance Manager to Group Financial Controller, and then to GM Finance, before stepping into the role of Acting CFO. Her consistent leadership and comprehensive oversight of RealNZ’s financial strategies have been instrumental in her promotion to the permanent position of CFO.
In addition to her extensive experience at RealNZ, Felicity has a robust background in finance with notable previous positions internationally. She was the Head of Finance – Western Europe at BBC Worldwide in London, where she managed financial operations across multiple markets. Earlier, she enhanced her expertise at Chevron as a Finance Analyst and at KPMG in various capacities, including Audit Manager in New Zealand, Audit Supervisor in the Netherlands, and Audit Senior in the United States. These roles have equipped her with a global perspective and a versatile skill set in financial management, external reporting, and strategic audits.
Felicity’s academic credentials include a graduate degree, followed by her progression to Audit Manager, where she honed her skills in a wide range of industries from telecommunications to healthcare. This diverse experience underpins her ability to manage complex financial landscapes and lead strategic financial initiatives.
RealNZ is a family-owned business rooted in the legacy of tourism and conservation pioneers Les and Olive Hutchins. Founded in the 1950s in Fiordland, today RealNZ offers a wide array of tourism experiences from Rakiura Stewart Island to Whakatipu Queenstown, including famous cruises through Piopiotahi Milford Sound and Patea Doubtful Sound, as well as the Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the heritage steamship TSS Earnslaw.
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