What is the difference between a founder, director and shareholder?

What is the difference between a founder, director and shareholder?
(Image: Getty)
Georgina Toomey
In New Zealand's dynamic business environment, business owners need to understand the key roles or “hats” they may wear as founders of their business. The terms "founder", "director", and "shareholder" are often used interchangeably. However, each role has distinct responsibilities with different legal obligations and entitlements. This article explains the differences between a founder, director, and shareholder in the context of NZ business.FoundersThe "founder" is the individual or...

More Law & Regulation

Asbestos scare sees RBNZ's Wellington staff home-bound
Finance

Asbestos scare sees RBNZ's Wellington staff home-bound

Earthquake exacerbates existing asbestos concerns at Reserve Bank office. 

Andy Macdonald 12 Nov 2025
Account-checking technology poised for wider rollout
Finance

Account-checking technology poised for wider rollout

Confirmation of Payee technology used in 60 million-plus transactions in first year.

Andy Macdonald 12 Nov 2025
Clarkes claim a right to silence
Property

Clarkes claim a right to silence

Du Val founders appeal an order that they front up to receivers for an interview.

Maria Slade 10 Nov 2025
Electricity Authority launches review as questions linger
Policy Analysis

Electricity Authority launches review as questions linger

The review has been described as a ‘rare opportunity for genuine transformation’. 

Ian Llewellyn 10 Nov 2025